Missing American Student Found Deceased Near Kyoto

The body of James "Weston" Higginbotham, a 20-year-old Auburn University student, was discovered on Saturday, June 1, 2025, in a mountainous area near Kyoto, Japan.

"There is no evidence of a crime," according to Japanese police.

Higginbotham had been missing since May 29 after separating from his family during a week-long vacation in Japan.

Discovery & Investigation

A volunteer search-and-rescue group located Higginbotham's body. Authorities have not released a cause of death, and the circumstances remain under investigation.

Disappearance

Higginbotham was last seen on May 29 at Yamashina Station in Kyoto. CCTV footage captured him at approximately 8 p.m. walking in the Yamashina area on a path leading to a hiking trail.

He had approximately 10,000 yen (about $62.50) and a phone with a 34% battery before his location data stopped transmitting. No credit card activity has been detected.

According to his mother, Nancy Higginbotham, her son shared his location via a family app (Life360) before turning it off. She stated he often explores nature alone and has experience hiking.

Background

Higginbotham was on a week-long family vacation in Japan, traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto with his parents and brother. He stayed behind while his family visited a temple.

Reports indicate he had an argument with his parents regarding the use of the AI tool ChatGPT for trip planning. The student, a biosystems and environmental engineering major at Auburn University, was reportedly opposed to increasing reliance on artificial intelligence.

Search Efforts

Japanese authorities deployed over 100 police officers, search dogs, and helicopters in the search. The family also hired a private rescue crew after authorities suspended efforts.

Heavy rains from a typhoon that arrived on Tuesday delayed the search until Wednesday. Japanese civilians and the FBI also assisted. A vigil was held in Birmingham, Alabama, on Tuesday.

Statements

Nancy Higginbotham announced the discovery on Facebook, expressing gratitude for international support and requesting privacy as the family grieves.

Auburn University President Christopher B. Roberts confirmed Higginbotham's death, expressing condolences. Hoover (Alabama) Mayor Nick Derzis and Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville also offered condolences.