Liability & Risk Disclaimer

Important information about risks and liability for Kirameki activities • Effective May 2025

Contents

⚠️ Important Notice

Please read this disclaimer carefully before participating in any Kirameki activities or staying at our accommodations.By booking with us, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to assume the risks outlined below.

1. Acknowledgment of Risk

Participation in Kirameki programs and staying at our accommodations in rural Japan involves inherent risks and hazards. By booking with us, you acknowledge and accept that:

  • Activities may involve physical exertion and potential for injury
  • Rural environments present unique challenges and hazards
  • Weather conditions can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous
  • Wildlife encounters are possible in natural settings
  • Traditional Japanese accommodations may differ significantly from modern facilities
  • Medical facilities may be distant and difficult to access quickly

2. Activity-Specific Risks

Farming Activities

  • Risk of cuts, bruises, and injuries from tools and equipment
  • Exposure to allergens, pesticides, and natural irritants
  • Physical strain from manual labor and repetitive motions
  • Potential encounters with insects, snakes, or other wildlife
  • Slips, trips, and falls on uneven or muddy terrain

Cooking Activities

  • Burns from hot surfaces, steam, and cooking equipment
  • Cuts from knives and sharp utensils
  • Food allergies and dietary reactions
  • Fire hazards when using traditional cooking methods

Cultural Workshops & Temple Visits

  • Physical strain from traditional activities (pottery, crafts)
  • Exposure to materials that may cause allergic reactions
  • Uneven surfaces and steps at traditional sites
  • Risk of falls or injuries during ceremonial activities

Nature Walks & Outdoor Activities

  • Challenging terrain including steep paths, rocks, and loose surfaces
  • Weather-related hazards (rain, snow, extreme temperatures)
  • Wildlife encounters including bears, wild boar, and venomous insects
  • Getting lost or separated from the group
  • Dehydration, exhaustion, and altitude-related issues

3. Environmental Hazards

Natural Disasters

Japan is prone to natural disasters including:

  • Earthquakes and aftershocks
  • Landslides and rockfalls
  • Flooding and flash floods
  • Typhoons and severe storms
  • Heavy snowfall and avalanches

Seasonal Hazards

  • Summer: Heat stroke, dehydration, insect bites, UV exposure
  • Winter: Hypothermia, frostbite, icy conditions, snow-related injuries
  • Rainy Season: Slippery surfaces, flooding, increased wildlife activity
  • Year-round: Sudden weather changes, mountain weather variations

4. Accommodation-Related Risks

Our traditional Japanese accommodations may present unique risks:

  • Low doorways, uneven floors, and steps that may cause falls
  • Limited heating and cooling systems
  • Shared bathroom facilities with potential slip hazards
  • Tatami mats that may cause allergic reactions
  • Traditional futon bedding that may not suit all physical needs
  • Limited wheelchair accessibility
  • Fire hazards from traditional heating methods
  • Limited lighting in some areas

5. Medical Considerations

Pre-existing Conditions

Guests with pre-existing medical conditions should:

  • Consult with their physician before participating
  • Bring sufficient medication for their stay
  • Inform Kirameki staff of any serious medical conditions
  • Consider the physical demands of planned activities

Emergency Medical Care

  • Nearest hospital may be 30+ minutes away
  • Emergency services may have limited English language support
  • Helicopter evacuation may be necessary in severe cases
  • Medical costs can be substantial without proper insurance

6. Personal Responsibility

Guests are responsible for:

  • Physical Fitness: Ensuring they are physically capable of participating in chosen activities
  • Safety Equipment: Using provided safety equipment and following safety instructions
  • Following Guidelines: Adhering to all posted rules and staff instructions
  • Honest Disclosure: Informing staff of medical conditions, allergies, and limitations
  • Appropriate Behavior: Acting responsibly and not under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Personal Belongings: Securing valuables and taking care of personal property
  • Emergency Preparation: Carrying emergency contact information and basic first aid knowledge

7. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Kirameki, its staff, volunteers, and partners shall not be liable for any injury, loss, damage, or death that may occur during your stay or participation in activities.

Exclusions Include:

  • Personal injury or death from any cause
  • Loss or damage to personal property
  • Indirect, consequential, or punitive damages
  • Lost wages or business opportunities
  • Emotional distress or mental anguish
  • Costs of medical treatment or evacuation

8. Insurance Requirements

Mandatory Travel Insurance

All guests are strongly encouraged to maintain comprehensive travel insurance that covers:

  • Medical expenses and emergency treatment
  • Emergency evacuation and repatriation
  • Adventure/activity coverage for outdoor pursuits
  • Personal liability coverage
  • Trip cancellation and interruption
  • Personal property loss or damage

Kirameki does not provide any insurance coverage for guests.

9. Emergency Procedures

In Case of Emergency:

  1. Immediately inform Kirameki staff or call Japanese emergency services (119 for medical, 110 for police)
  2. Follow staff instructions for evacuation or safety procedures
  3. Contact your emergency contact and insurance provider
  4. Keep all medical receipts for insurance claims

Emergency Contacts

  • Kirameki Emergency: +81 80-2888-0788
  • Japanese Fire/Ambulance: 119
  • Japanese Police: 110
  • Tourist Hotline: 050-3816-2787

10. Waiver and Release

By booking with Kirameki, you hereby:

  • Acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer
  • Voluntarily assume all risks associated with your participation
  • Release and hold harmless Kirameki from any and all claims
  • Waive any right to sue for damages arising from your participation
  • Agree to indemnify Kirameki against any claims brought by others on your behalf
  • Confirm that you are mentally and physically capable of participating
  • Understand that this waiver is binding on your heirs and legal representatives

If you do not agree to these terms, please do not proceed with your booking.

This disclaimer is governed by Japanese law. Any disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of Japanese courts.

Last updated: May 2025