Visitors to Japan Warned of Methanol Poisoning Risk in Drinks
As increasing record numbers of tourists arrive in Japan, the UK Government has warned about bear attacks and deadly methanol in alcoholic drinks after a surge of cases in which the poison killed or seriously injured a number of foreign travellers in parts of Asia and elsewhere.
Despite Japan’s reputation as a safe destination, emails sent to UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice subscribers warned on October 22, “There has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world. Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.”
The FCDO also issued methanol warnings recently about Ecuador, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Uganda and Russia, adding to previously listed Cambodia, Indonesia, Turkey, Costa Rica, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Fiji.
The FCDO also highlighted in late October the increasing number of bear attacks in Japan, especially in mountainous and forested areas, including near populated zones. They urge travelers to follow local advice and alerts, and take precautions if travelling in such areas.
The travel advice updates added to existing warnings about a risk of drink spiking and credit card fraud. “Victims have described waking up with no memory of what happened and discovering large amounts of money billed to their credit card. Risks are higher in all entertainment and nightlife districts across Japan. In particular, the Japanese police have identified the following areas in Tokyo as high-risk zones: Kabukicho, Roppongi, Shibuya and Ikebukuro.”
The FCDO said you can reduce the risk of spiking by not accepting drinks from strangers and not leaving drinks unattended. “Card fraudsters may skim or clone bank cards when you pay for food or drink. You may need a police report before your credit card company will consider processing a fraud claim.”
“British nationals have been arrested at clubs and bars following disputes with staff and doorpersons over excessive bar bills. These disputes are often seen in the high risk areas outlined above. Ensure you see a menu with prices before you enter a bar or restaurant. Keep track of what you order and confirm the price of admission to clubs on entry.”
“Take the same precautions you would at home and get local advice on areas where you might need to be more alert. Tokyo’s entertainment districts carry a higher risk of crime, particularly at night in and around clubs and bars. Foreign nationals have been targeted for extortion, robbery, assault and sexual assault. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings in sight when travelling. Place valuables in a secure place such as a hotel safe when you can.”
Threats, advice and warnings about Japan include terrorism, crime, environment and cultural differences. “Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Japan, attacks cannot be ruled out. There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
“Prostitution and street touts are illegal but commonplace, especially in the high risk areas outlined above. Do not accompany street touts to bars or clubs. Street touts often encourage people to enter an establishment by misrepresenting the services on offer. You may incur an entry charge so do not enter on the promise of a free drink or to have a look, as you may not be free to leave.”
“Rape and sexual assault are rare but can happen. Japanese law puts a high burden of proof on victims to demonstrate sexual relations were not consensual and committed through assault, intimidation or force. Female passengers travelling on commuter trains have experienced inappropriate behaviour. This includes touching and upskirting—taking photos or videos from below when women walk or stand nearby. Police advise you should shout at the perpetrator to attract attention and ask a fellow passenger to call train or station staff.”
“You must always carry your passport or Japanese residence card with you. The police can arrest you if you cannot show proof of your visa or residence status.”
The FCDO also has safety advice on its website for regions of Japan such as Fukushima and the Noto Peninsula concerning quakes, volcanoes, cyclones and tsunamis.
“Civil disturbance and violent demonstrations are rare in Japan. Occasionally, there are pro-nationalist demonstrations that express hostility towards foreign countries. If you become aware of protests, leave the area immediately.”“The level of tension and security situation in the Korean Peninsula can change with little notice. Tensions can rise after missile tests by North Korea and during the regular South Korea-US military exercises, which take place throughout the year. North Korea frequently launches missiles towards Japan as part of missile testing, and is likely to continue doing so. You should follow the advice of local authorities and check NHK World for the latest information. See advice on missile alerts from the Japanese government.”