The U.S. Embassy has issued a wildlife alert after a sharp rise in bear sightings and deadly encounters in northern Japan, particularly around Sapporo, Hokkaido and Akita. Authorities reported 13 fatal attacks in 2025 and about 200 injuries since April. Experts point to a growing Asiatic black bear population, a poor acorn harvest and reduced human activity in rural areas as likely causes. Officials advise avoiding bears, securing food and reporting sightings to local authorities.
U.S. Embassy Urges Caution After Record Deadly Bear Attacks in Northern Japan
The U.S. Embassy has issued a wildlife alert after a sharp rise in bear sightings and deadly encounters in northern Japan, particularly around Sapporo, Hokkaido and Akita. Authorities reported 13 fatal attacks in 2025 and about 200 injuries since April. Experts point to a growing Asiatic black bear population, a poor acorn harvest and reduced human activity in rural areas as likely causes. Officials advise avoiding bears, securing food and reporting sightings to local authorities.
12:41 AM, 11/21/2025Environment
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Japan have issued a wildlife alert warning Americans and other visitors to exercise caution in northern Japan after a surge in bear sightings and fatal encounters. The advisory, released on Nov. 12, highlights increased activity around Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Akita Prefecture and surrounding areas.
What the alert says
The embassy notes that bear sightings and attacks have risen in municipalities near populated zones. Authorities temporarily closed Maruyama Park in Sapporo — which is adjacent to the U.S. Consulate General — for two weeks after a bear was sighted there. Consular staff and visitors were urged to remain vigilant, check their surroundings, and follow local guidance.
Recent incidents and response
This year Japan recorded an unusually high number of fatal bear attacks, with 13 deaths reported in 2025 — more than double the previous record of six. Officials also report roughly 200 injuries connected to bear encounters since April. In response to growing incidents, authorities have taken measures including temporary park closures and deploying personnel to assist wildlife control efforts in the hardest-hit areas.
Why attacks are increasing
Wildlife experts attribute the spike to several factors: a rising Asiatic black bear population, a poor acorn harvest that reduced a key natural food source, and declining human presence in some rural areas, which allows bears to expand their range. As bears prepare for hibernation, they can become more aggressive while searching for food.
Bear species and safety tips
Japan is home primarily to two bear species. The Asiatic black bear is the more numerous, with an estimated population of about 42,000; it often has a crescent-shaped cream patch on its chest, reaches roughly 4 to 5 feet tall, and can weigh up to about 440 pounds. The larger Hokkaido brown bear is less common, with around 12,000 individuals.
Safety guidance:
- Avoid approaching or feeding bears.
- Secure food, trash and other attractants at campsites and homes.
- Stay alert in parks, wooded areas and near trails — especially at dawn and dusk.
- If you see a bear in a residential or commercial area, keep your distance and report the sighting to local authorities immediately.
- Follow closures and instructions from local officials and consular advisories.
This advisory is intended to help residents and visitors stay safe while authorities monitor and respond to the increased bear activity in northern Japan.