MATSUMOTO, Nagano Prefecture–Hikers eager to savor fresh, cool mountain air and breathtaking scenery are descending on Kamikochi in central Japan now that summer has arrived.
As with any wilderness area, certain precautions need to be taken, not only to protect visitors but also wildlife.
The remote highland valley, gateway to the Northern Japan Alps, is bear country, and visitors are warned accordingly.
They are also advised to watch out for other species that have become used to having humans around.
Surprisingly, crows are at the top of the pecking order because they have gotten into the habit of snatching snacks from visitors.
The wily birds seem to swoop down out of nowhere when food is…
