The U.S. State Department has issued a wildlife alert for Americans in Japan after a recent rise in bear sightings and attacks. At least 13 people have been killed and more than 100 injured since April, with most incidents concentrated in Hokkaido and Akita. Authorities have closed public areas, deployed troops to help contain bears, and authorized some police to use lethal force when necessary. U.S. citizens are advised to enroll in STEP, avoid areas where bears have been reported, and report sightings to local authorities.
U.S. Issues Wildlife Alert for Americans in Japan After Spike in Bear Attacks
The U.S. State Department has issued a wildlife alert for Americans in Japan after a recent rise in bear sightings and attacks. At least 13 people have been killed and more than 100 injured since April, with most incidents concentrated in Hokkaido and Akita. Authorities have closed public areas, deployed troops to help contain bears, and authorized some police to use lethal force when necessary. U.S. citizens are advised to enroll in STEP, avoid areas where bears have been reported, and report sightings to local authorities.
02:54 AM, 11/14/2025Society
U.S. State Department Issues Wildlife Alert as Bear Incidents Rise in Japan
The U.S. State Department has issued a wildlife alert urging Americans in Japan to stay vigilant after a recent surge in bear sightings and attacks in parts of the country.
Authorities report that at least 13 people have been killed and more than 100 injured since April — the highest toll since Japan began keeping nationwide records in 2006. Most incidents have been concentrated in northern Japan, particularly in Hokkaido and Akita prefectures, and several sightings have prompted local closures and public warnings.
What officials are doing
Local authorities have closed parks and other public areas after sightings, and troops were recently dispatched to Akita to help contain the animals. Some police units have been authorized to shoot bears when necessary to protect residents, according to reports. The State Department recommended that U.S. citizens register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for officials to locate Americans during emergencies.
Where and why this is happening
Bears have been seen near schools, supermarkets and even close to Iwate Hanamaki Airport. Experts point to several contributing factors: Japan's aging and shrinking rural population has led to abandoned farmland reverting to forest, giving bears room to expand their range; fewer active hunters and preventive measures; and shifts in food availability and hibernation patterns due to climate change.
"Then that area recovered to the forest, so bears have a chance to expand their range," biologist Koji Yamazaki of Tokyo University of Agriculture told news outlets in 2023.
About the bears
Japan is home to two bear species: Asian black bears (also called moon bears), found across the main islands, and larger brown bears on Hokkaido. Brown bears can exceed 1,100 pounds and may outrun humans; Asian black bears are smaller and adept climbers, reaching up to roughly 440 pounds. Authorities cull thousands of bears in Japan each year as part of population and safety management.
Japan's official travel advisory remains at Level 1, meaning travelers should "exercise normal precautions," but it is unusual for the U.S. government to issue wildlife-specific warnings abroad — highlighting the seriousness of the current situation. Travelers and residents are urged to avoid areas with recent sightings, travel in groups where possible, report any bear encounters to local authorities, and follow local guidance.