According to the Tokachi Wide-Area Fire Department, on July 20, 2025, 17 people—ranging from teenagers to individuals in their 70s—were stung by hornets in a park in Memuro Town.
Around 10:20 a.m. on the 20th, a report was made to the fire department by someone involved in a tennis tournament, stating, “A 16- to 17-year-old male was stung by a hornet.”
It is believed that 17 people, including participants and staff—11 teenagers, three men in their 20s, and one man each in their 30s, 60s, and 70s—were stung by yellow hornets.
At the time, the “Obihiro Forest Sports Park” was hosting the Hokkaido Invitational Soft Tennis Obihiro Tournament.
All 17 victims sustained minor injuries and did not require hospital transport.
Tokachi Wide-Area Fire Department
The Tokachi Wide-Area Fire Department is a regional firefighting organization based in the Tokachi subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. Established to enhance disaster response and fire prevention across multiple municipalities, it serves a large, rural area prone to wildfires and harsh winters. The department plays a critical role in coordinating emergency services and public safety efforts in the region.
Memuro Town
Memuro is a town located in the Tokachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan, known for its vast agricultural fields and dairy farming. Established in the early 20th century as part of Hokkaido’s development, it became a key area for potato, wheat, and beet production. The town also hosts the *Memuro Autumn Festival*, celebrating its farming heritage with parades and traditional performances.
Obihiro Forest Sports Park
Obihiro Forest Sports Park is a recreational and sports facility located in Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan. Established to promote outdoor activities and sports, the park features extensive green spaces, walking trails, and sports fields. While its exact founding date is unclear, it has become a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking nature-based recreation and sporting events.
Hokkaido Invitational Soft Tennis Obihiro Tournament
The **Hokkaido Invitational Soft Tennis Obihiro Tournament** is an annual sports event held in Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan, promoting the sport of soft tennis—a variation of tennis played with softer balls and rubber paddles. The tournament attracts teams from across Japan and occasionally international participants, fostering competition and cultural exchange. While specific historical details are limited, the event reflects Hokkaido’s active sports culture and Obihiro’s role as a regional hub for athletics.
