Nagano

Nagano Prefecture, Japan, specifically the Hakuba Valley, is in the news due to a fatal ski lift accident at the Tsugaike Mountain Resort. The incident involved a 22-year-old Australian woman who died after her backpack became entangled in the ski lift as she was preparing to disembark. She was reportedly dragged along the snow and suspended mid-air, possibly suffering a cardiac arrest. The accident has garnered international attention, particularly in Australia, with tributes pouring in for the deceased. The Hakuba Valley is a popular ski destination in the central region of Nagano, making this incident a significant event for the area's tourism and raising concerns about ski lift safety protocols.