Rising Water Accidents in Japan: A Growing Concern for Foreigners
As Japan experiences extreme heat, a significant number of water-related accidents have been reported across the country. These incidents have increasingly involved foreigners, particularly as the number of foreign workers and inbound tourists continues to rise. Local governments and organizations are now focusing on implementing measures to prevent such accidents by considering cultural and customary differences.
The Dangers of Swimming in Unfamiliar Waters
In June, two Vietnamese men were swept away from Katakai Beach in Chiba Prefecture, while a Myanmar man drowned at a beach in Tsuruga, Fukui Prefecture. According to a survey by the Nippon Foundation’s Umi no Sonae Project, there were 229 water accidents involving 265 people between July 1 and August 31, 2024, with 172 fatalities. Approximately 10% of those who drowned were foreigners, with nearly half occurring at rivers and around 40% at sea. Some of these incidents took place in areas where no-swimming rules were not clearly enforced.
Many of the foreigners involved lacked awareness of local safety regulations along waterfronts. However, this was not the only contributing factor. A 2019 OECD report highlighted that the ability of people aged 15 and older to swim independently varied significantly by country. For example, Sweden had a 90% rate, Japan 60%, Vietnam 40%, and Nepal 20%. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines showed rates in the 50% range, while Myanmar and India fell into the 30% range, and China and Nepal in the 20% range.
These disparities are influenced by factors such as access to school education, availability of swimming facilities, and natural environments that encourage water familiarity. A 30-year-old Nepalese cafe worker in Nagoya, who arrived in Japan in June, shared, “I have experience swimming in a river, but not everyone else does that.” He expressed his desire to swim in the Japanese sea, highlighting the lack of ocean access in his home country.
Unique Challenges in Japan’s Water Environments
For inexperienced swimmers, navigating unfamiliar waters can be extremely dangerous. Japan’s geographical features, such as complex river currents, pose unique risks compared to the slower flows found in other regions. In Gifu Prefecture, which is known for its river recreational spots, seven foreigners died in water accidents in 2024. In response, the prefectural government developed flyers in six languages detailing the characteristics of Japanese rivers, including their depth, speed, and slippery surfaces.
The government also collaborated with companies hiring foreigners, volunteers promoting multicultural inclusion, and disaster prevention leaders to spread awareness about these dangers. A representative from the diversity and inclusion division noted, “To ensure the message is effectively communicated, we asked those directly involved with foreigners to act as a bridge between us.”
Key Safety Tips for Inexperienced Swimmers
Experts emphasize the importance of taking precautions when entering unfamiliar waters. Professor Hidetoshi Saitoh of Nagaoka University of Technology, who leads the Society of Water Rescue and Survival Research, advises checking the depth of rivers and seas before entering. Many accidents involve people drowning in deep water after assuming it is shallow due to its transparency.
At sea, individuals should be cautious, as the depth of a location can change with incoming waves. Saitoh recommends that people playing in rivers or the sea ensure the water is below the knee. Most importantly, he highlights the “float and wait” technique as the most critical action for survival.
When someone falls into the water or is about to be swept away, they should avoid trying to swim and instead float face-up while waiting for help. “It’s okay even if you can’t swim. It’s actually better if you don’t try to swim,” Saitoh explained. This method is taught in Japanese elementary schools and is part of broader safety education, including lessons on swimming while wearing clothes.
Since 2011, the Society of Water Rescue and Survival Research has been promoting the “float and wait” approach in Southeast Asian countries to help people survive flood disasters. They have conducted classes in the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and other regions, as well as at adult swimming schools.
The Importance of Continued Education and Awareness
Professor Saitoh believes that increasing the number of people who receive such education could reduce fatal accidents, even among those who cannot swim. He emphasizes that sustained efforts are necessary to address the issue.
Cultural differences, educational backgrounds, and environmental factors vary widely across countries. Therefore, it is crucial to communicate risk information to foreigners without making assumptions based on their presence in Japan. By understanding these challenges and adapting safety measures accordingly, Japan can work towards reducing water-related accidents and ensuring the well-being of all residents and visitors.
