22/05/2026
☀️ It's hot! Let's go for a swim in the river! Seriously?☀️
Every year, many water accidents occur, involving both Japanese and foreigners.
They happen even in shallow rivers, and even to good swimmers.
To protect your life, wear a life jacket and make sure you know how to call the emergency number.
💧💧💧💧💧💧💧💧💧💧
⇩More information⇩
Why Playing in Rivers Is Dangerous
In Gifu Prefecture, rivers are considered the most dangerous places for water activities.
Over the past 10 years, the average fatality rate for water-related accidents in the prefecture has been about 48%.
Japanese rivers may look calm, but they hide many dangers—strong and complex currents, cold spots, sharp rocks, and sudden drop-offs (from 30 cm to 20 m deep). These risks can change even in the same river.
Swimming is not officially banned in Gifu’s rivers—not because they are safe, but because all rivers are equally dangerous.
Safety Tips from Gifu Prefecture’s River Division:
・Always wear a life jacket, even if you’re not in the water.
・Swim rings are not a substitute for life jackets—they can easily slip off.
・Take all your trash home. Leaving garbage is a crime.
More info: https://www.pref.gifu.lg.jp/page/27330.html
(Use your browser’s translation function)
