When you think of the dangers of snakebites abroad, destinations like Australia usually come to mind. But, as Daniel Gallagher experienced, there are also some surprising snake-related dangers among the beautiful islands of Japan. Gallagher had a surprise encounter with a pit viper in his Japan travels, which resulted in a trip to the emergency room and a valuable lesson – Japan’s wildlife can be more dangerous than it first appears. Here’s what avid hikers and travelers should know when they head there on vacation.

How Dangerous Are Snakes in Japan?

As is common worldwide, only a fraction of the snakes in Japan are venomous. Still, some of them can pack a dangerous bite – and like many other island nations, Japan’s snakes can have particularly toxic venom, even for humans.

In 2008, research showed there had been over 1,600 hospitalizations in Japan because of snake bites, with more recent reports showing higher numbers. And like Gallagher, quite a few cases ended up in the emergency room or required surgery. The good news is that deaths are relatively rare – in the study, only three snakebite victims died, all elderly. However, other cases resulted in severe problems like acute kidney injuries.

What Snakes Should I Watch For?

Japan has around 47 different snake species, but as Gallagher experienced, some are far more infamous for venomous encounters than others. Top contenders include:

• The Mamushi: The Mamushi is the most dangerous snake in the Japanese islands, responsible for most hospitalized snake bite victims. They combine several hazardous features, including grayish/brown camouflage that allows them to hide invisibly in leaf piles or grass, and various habitats, including meadows, woodlands, hillsides, and other areas where people like to hike.
• The Habu: The Habu is a pit viper found only in the Ryukyu islands. They are substantial for venomous snakes and can reach up to five feet long, with a light olive/brown coloring. While easier to avoid than the Mamushi, the Habu has a particularly dangerous venom that requires emergency attention like the kind Daniel Gallagher received.
• Tsushima Island Pit Viper: This viper is found only in the forested Tsushima Island. A slim, leaf-patterned snake, this viper is usually content to hide amidst falling leaves and hunt small prey like frogs, but it may attack the odd human who steps on one by accident.

What Should I Do If a Snake Bites Me in Japan?

Sit down, and take several minutes to stay calm and focused. Consider planning your way back or into the cell service range if hiking. Your goal is to contact emergency services as quickly as possible. Japan has ample snakebite experience and keeps antivenoms on hand to handle emergencies. If possible, note the time you were bitten – some recommend marking the bite on your body with a marker if possible. When hiking in Japan, always watch for signs warning that venomous snakes may be nearby.