Violent attack by tourist live streamed at Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival was marred by an incident of violence, further raising concerns about the behavior of tourists in Japan.
Criminal behavior by foreign nationals is increasingly being brought to the publics attention by Japanese media including incidents of shoplifting, voyeurism and even involvement in prostitution.
The latest case involves a foreign national that was live-streaming his experience at the Sapporo Snow Festival and subsequently engaged in an act that could have easily resulted in serious injury.
For no apparent reason, the live streamer decided to throw a snowball directly into the face of a festival staff member.
The incident, captured on his own live stream, has sparked outrage and led to calls for increased security measures at the venue.
The man’s actions were far from a playful prank, as moments before the assault the streamer held a snowball to the camera and declared to his viewers: “I’m going to throw this at the next person who comes to the vending machine. I’m not lying.”
Approaching a Japanese male staff member at the festival’s Odori Park venue, the streamer uttered a seemingly polite “Excuse me”, before launching the snowball at their head.
The projectile struck the staff member squarely in the face and whilst they fortunately escaped serious injury, the potential for harm was undeniable.
Snowballs, especially when packed tightly and thrown with force, can cause significant damage, particularly to the eyes or face.
The incident occurred in front of a free rest area, a space designed for visitors to relax and enjoy the festival atmosphere.
The fact that this act of aggression took place in such a public space, surrounded by families and individuals of all ages, has led many in Japan to wonder why a visitor to a country that is often commended for public safety would carry out such an act.
As the staff member stood visibly shaken and confused, other foreign tourists witnessing the event intervened, verbally reprimanding the streamer for his inappropriate behavior.
Two police officers appear to approach the streamer but walk away soon thereafter.
The streamer, seemingly aware of the potential legal ramifications, then left the scene without any action being taken against them.
However, his subsequent comment, caught on the live stream, revealed a shocking lack of remorse. “Did you see that? These guys are low level.”, he remarked to his online audience.
Online commentators were united in their criticism of the streamer and their violent act.
Some were disappointed that there have been no legal repercussions and accused the police of inaction because they did not want to deal with a foreigner.
Others showed concern for the victim and expressed that it is unacceptable for anyone to be subjected to violence while doing their job.
In the wake of this incident, Sapporo City, which manages the Snow Festival venue, took swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of visitors and staff.
They announced an increase in staff presence and strengthened patrols throughout the surrounding area in a bid to maintain the positive and welcoming atmosphere that the Sapporo Snow Festival is known for.
Source: HTB Hokkaido News