Hong Kong tourists should learn about any safety risks at places they plan to visit in Japan, experts have warned after a resident from the city died while reportedly taking photos on train tracks in Hokkaido this week.
A Japan-based travel content creator and owners of travel agencies reminded travellers they were responsible for their own safety while abroad, saying it was a “misconception” that walking on tracks was safe when no trains were in sight.
“This is a misconception … entering the tracks would not be allowed at any train stations [in use], this is basic knowledge,” a Hong Kong content creator who has lived in Japan for eight years said.
The creator, who identified herself only as Hya, noted standing on a rail line was dangerous and any discarded debris could damage the tracks, possibly causing an accident when trains passed.
“It’s quite easy to go onto the tracks of Hong Kong’s light rail system, but people won’t do so,” she said. “There are many spots where it is easy to enter, but it’s a matter of whether you have an awareness of whether you should do that or not.”
