Japan reports widespread bear sightings and encounters

Multiple regions across Japan are reporting increased bear activity, leading to heightened public safety warnings and emergency measures.

In Hiroshima Prefecture, authorities conducted the first emergency gun hunting operation under a new system after a bear was discovered in a box trap in Hiroshima City. In Hokkaido, a 2-meter-long bear collided with a vehicle on the Fukagawa-Rumoi Expressway, occurring shortly after a sighting of a mother bear and two cubs in the same area.

In Miyagi Prefecture, sightings have been frequent in Kesennuma City, with over 10 reports since October 8, including a bear seen in an urban street. Additionally, a bear was spotted crossing a road near Tome Bridge in Tome City. Meanwhile, in Kyoto Prefecture, residents in Sakyo Ward reported a bear sighting near the Takano River, prompting police to issue warnings after finding tracks on the riverbank.