Japanese police found the body of a missing 20-year-old [1] U.S. citizen in the mountains of Kyoto on Saturday.
The death of Higginbotham James West ends a search that drew international attention and highlighted the risks travelers face in Japan's rugged terrain.
West went missing on May 29, 2026 [2]. Search teams located his body in a forested area within the Yamashina Ward of Kyoto City at approximately 2:35 p.m. on June 6, 2026 [3].
Kyoto police said there is no evidence of foul play [4]. Investigators believe the death may have been caused by a health emergency, or an accident related to the natural environment [4].
"According to the police, there is no evidence of a crime," the Kyoto police said [4].
The victim's mother expressed gratitude for the global support during the search. "Hello everyone. I want to express my gratitude for your prayers. We really feel it," she said [5].
Local authorities had coordinated efforts to locate West after he failed to contact his family. The discovery brings a conclusion to the missing person's case, though the specific medical cause of death has not been detailed in the police report [4].
“Japanese police said there is no evidence of foul play.”
The incident underscores the inherent dangers for tourists exploring Japan's mountainous regions, where rapid weather changes and difficult terrain can lead to fatal accidents. Because the police ruled out criminal activity, the case serves as a reminder for international travelers to utilize local guides and safety registries when venturing into remote areas.
