A five-year-old boy tragically lost his life after his arm became caught in a ski travelator at the Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort in Otaru, Japan. The incident occurred on December 28, 2023, while the boy was on vacation with his family. According to local media reports, the child, identified as Hinata Goto, fell while preparing to disembark from the travelator and became entangled in its machinery.
Despite the emergency stop being activated by his mother, rescue teams faced significant challenges. They reportedly spent 40 minutes disassembling parts of the travelator to free the unconscious boy. He was rushed to the hospital but was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.
The Hokkaido police have initiated an investigation to ascertain whether there was any negligence related to the installation or maintenance of the travelator. Preliminary reports suggest that the safety mechanism was functioning earlier on the day of the incident. The travelator, commonly referred to as a “magic carpet,” is a handrail-free device that spans approximately 30 meters (98 feet) in length and 60 centimeters (24 inches) in width, connecting the resort’s parking lot to its ski slopes.
Witnesses and visitors have expressed concerns about the travelator’s safety. According to the Asahi Shimbun, one frequent skier mentioned, “Even as an adult, there are times when I think, ‘It’s a little scary.'” Reports indicate that other visitors had encountered similar issues, with some stating they had tripped on the same travelator prior to this tragic event.
In response to the incident, officials at the Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort expressed their condolences and assured the public that measures would be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The resort is a popular destination in Hokkaido, which attracts millions of tourists annually during the winter months, drawn by its renowned skiing opportunities.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on enhancing safety protocols to protect visitors at ski resorts across the region. The local community mourns the loss of young Hinata Goto, and the incident has sparked a broader conversation about safety measures at recreational facilities.
