Bears sighted in Niigata and Akita prefectures

Multiple bear sightings have been reported in Japan's Niigata and Akita prefectures.

In Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, a bear approximately 100 centimeters in length was spotted near the Kotake Bridge in the Kiyosato district around 6:06 AM on October 7. Niigata Prefecture has issued a bear sighting alert, advising residents to avoid entering mountains during early morning and evening hours and to travel in groups while carrying noise-making objects.

In Yurihonjo City, Akita Prefecture, a bear of similar size—roughly 1 meter long—was observed crossing a prefectural road on October 6. The sighting was made by fire department personnel driving an emergency vehicle. The bear was spotted approximately 20 meters from the nearest residence, prompting local police to increase patrols and urge caution among nearby residents.