Bear sightings reported in Yamanashi and Akita prefectures, Japan

On July 27, a bear was sighted on a prefectural road near the Nakano tea house area in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The animal, believed to be a young bear, crossed the road without causing injuries. Local officials issued a safety alert via disaster‑prevention radio and used fireworks to disperse the bear; similar sightings had been reported in the area on June 13 and July 9.

Earlier that morning, a separate bear was observed in a residential forest behind a house in the Terauchi Ebihone district of Akita City, Akita Prefecture. Police responded with patrol cars, warned nearby residents, and monitored the situation. No injuries were reported. Both prefectures are urging the public to remain vigilant as the animals appear to be moving closer to populated areas.