The family of 20-year-old James “Weston” Higginbotham is asking for the public’s help as search efforts continue after he disappeared during a family trip to Japan.

According to his mother, Nancy Higginbotham, Weston was last seen on May 29 in the Kyoto area. Japanese authorities have since reviewed surveillance footage and narrowed the search to the area around Yamashina Station, east of Kyoto.

Weston is a student at Auburn University studying environmental engineering. Family members describe him as an excellent student who is passionate about the environment, well-traveled, an experienced hiker, and an excellent navigator.

He is described as 6-foot-1 with long blonde hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a white “Save the Bees” T-shirt, lavender corduroy pants, and white Adidas shoes. Family members say he may be experiencing emotional distress.

Despite severe weather conditions, Weston’s parents have traveled to the area and are actively searching alongside local authorities.

Nancy Higginbotham said police have ruled out speculation that her son was simply out partying and urged the public to share his information widely.

Anyone with information is asked to contact local authorities in Japan at 1-1-0 and reach out to the family. Nancy Higginbotham can be contacted via WhatsApp at +1 (205) 215-8888 or by email at nancyhig@gmail.com.

This remains an active missing person investigation.