Bear sightings and injury reported in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan

Multiple bear sightings were recorded across Fukushima Prefecture during the weekend of 1‑2 August 2026 and on 3 August. Reports came from locations in the Aizu region, the central corridor and the Hamadori area, including Aizuwakamatsu, Kitakata, Fukushima City, and several national highways where bears emerged from nearby vegetation.

On 3 August, police confirmed that a bear scratched a person’s face in Aizumisato (会津美里町). The victim received minor injuries and the incident prompted local authorities to issue safety warnings and increase monitoring of bear activity throughout the prefecture.