Hongkongers visiting Japan should purchase adequate travel insurance, remain vigilant and avoid entering sealed-off areas known for bear attacks, or they may risk losing their coverage, tourism industry leaders have warned.
The warnings came after a rise in bear attacks in Japan over the weekend, prompting the closure of popular destinations known for autumn foliage and hot springs, including Senshu Park in Akita Prefecture and the tourist village of Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture.
Chan Pui-leung, general manager of China Taiping Insurance (HK), said travel coverage was crucial because it primarily covered accidents. Therefore, unexpected animal attacks should be included as they were similar to car accidents, he said.
But he warned that travellers must follow local advisories and avoid restricted areas or locations closed due to wild animal sightings.
“A key caveat is that if a traveller enters an area that has been closed or marked with explicit warnings, such as those for high bear sightings, the insurance policy may be voided because the action is taken with full knowledge of the risk and is no longer considered an accident,” Chan, who is also a lawmaker, said.
The Environment Ministry of Japan recorded 20,792 bear sightings nationwide between April and September. Photo: AFP
He urged travellers to carefully review their itinerary and select a plan that provides sufficient personal accident and risk protection, noting that insurers offered various coverage levels and that medical expenses could be high if a serious injury led to an extended hospital stay abroad.
AloJapan.com