Bear sightings increase in residential and urban areas across Japan

Increased bear sightings are being reported in residential and urban areas across multiple Japanese prefectures, raising concerns for public safety.

In Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, more than 10 sightings have been reported in urban areas since October 8. Recent sightings include a bear appearing on roads and running through parking lots. Local authorities have responded by installing trap boxes to manage the situation.

In Yura Town, Wakayama Prefecture, sightings have occurred near residential areas, farmland, and school routes. While the Asiatic black bears in this region tend to avoid humans, there is heightened caution following a previous incident in Arida Town where a man was injured by a bear near his home. Experts advise residents to use bells or radios to signal their presence and to avoid leaving food waste or unharvested crops that might attract wildlife.