U.S. State Department Warns Americans in Japan After 13 Fatal Bear Attacks Since April — "Be Diligent"

U.S. State Department Issues Safety Alert After Fatal Bear Attacks in Japan

The U.S. State Department has warned American citizens in Japan to remain vigilant following a rise in bear sightings and attacks that have killed 13 people since April, according to AFP. Japanese authorities closed Maruyama Park in Sapporo — which borders the U.S. Consulate General — for two weeks after a bear was sighted there.

State Department advisory: "Bear sightings and attacks have increased in parts of Japan, especially in municipalities close to or adjacent to populated zones," the alert says. Although the Consulate is located outside the park, officials urged visitors for routine or other services to be diligent and aware of their surroundings.

In response to the most recent incident, Japan deployed troops to the northern Akita region on Nov. 8. The deployed units did not carry firearms and did not harm bears; instead, they were equipped with non‑lethal tools such as bear spray, sticks, shields, protective goggles, bullet‑proof jackets and net launchers as part of efforts to restore a sense of safety in affected communities.

Authorities say a poor acorn harvest this year has driven bears closer to residential areas as they search for food. Sightings have been reported across Hokkaido and Akita, and additional park closures are possible if threats persist.

The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo urged American citizens to avoid areas where bears have been reported and to notify local authorities immediately if they see a bear.

Practical safety tips

• Avoid areas where bears have been reported and follow local closures and guidance.
• Do not approach, feed or provoke bears; keep pets leashed and children close.
• When hiking, travel in groups, make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, and carry bear spray where legal and available.
• If you encounter a bear, back away slowly, do not run, and contact local authorities to report the sighting.