There has been a sharp increase in car accidents involving rental cars driven by foreign tourists in the area around Mount Fuji, with nearly 800 accidents recorded last year—almost double that of the previous year, as reported by SMBC Nikko Securities on August 18. Many of the incidents involve tourists unfamiliar with Japan’s narrow roads, particularly in residential areas that have become popular for capturing views of Mount Fuji.
At the center of this trend is Oshino Hakkai, a World Heritage Site known for its picturesque springs that offer stunning views of Mount Fuji. The site’s name, featuring the number “eight,” symbolizes good fortune in many Asian cultures and has thus attracted many international tourists. However, foreign drivers, dealing with Japan’s left-side driving system and navigating narrow streets, are contributing to the rise in accidents.
Last year, foreign-driven rental cars accounted for 770 collisions resulting in vehicle damage—1.8 times higher than the previous year—according to the local police in the Fuji Five Lakes area, which is seeing an increase in tourist attractions and visitors. Many accidents involved single vehicles hitting barriers or fences, with a smaller portion being collisions between vehicles.
In response, the local police department has begun taking measures, including creating maps in seven languages, pinpointing accident hotspots from rental car incidents. They are also focusing on raising awareness at hotels and popular tourist destinations to better inform visiting drivers.
by MagazineKey4532