A Filipino climber has died after being rescued from Japan's Mount Okuhotakadake in the Northern Alps, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The 53-year-old man was part of a group of seven attempting to scale the 3,190-metre peak, about 270km west of Tokyo.
The group encountered difficulties while descending the steep slopes of Japan's third-highest mountain, leaving three members stranded. A search operation was launched on Saturday evening after a mountain lodge employee alerted police, following a distress call from a Filipino woman reporting three missing companions.
Rescuers found the missing climbers at around 5.20am local time on Sunday, roughly 170 metres from the lodge. The 53-year-old was in critical condition and was pronounced dead after being airlifted for medical treatment. His 48-year-old companion, suspected to be suffering from hypothermia, was taken under observation. A third missing climber, a woman, had made her way down before rescuers arrived.
Mount Okuhotakadake, in the Hotaka mountain range, is known as one of Japan's most challenging climbs, attracting experienced climbers globally. However, weather changes and difficult terrain make it hazardous, particularly in early autumn when conditions can quickly turn treacherous.
Japanese authorities have repeatedly urged climbers to prepare thoroughly before attempting alpine routes. Meanwhile, Japan introduced a uniform 4,000 yen (£20) entry fee for all four main Mount Fuji trails this climbing season to address overcrowding and environmental damage.
