Japan sees surge in bear sightings across multiple prefectures

A series of brown bear encounters have been reported across Japan in recent weeks. On June 12, a camera in Kobe's northern district captured the first confirmed bear in the city, near a local golf course, prompting officials to advise residents to stay vigilant. Similar sightings have occurred in Aomori, Gifu, Toyama and the famous tourist site of Amanohashidate in Kyoto, where a bear was briefly seen after a previous capture and removal.

In Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, a bear was captured on June 9 at an auto‑repair shop, leading to three days of temporary school closures while authorities investigated. Although the local bear‑watch headquarters was later dissolved after no further evidence was found, the incident left residents uneasy and highlighted the need for renewed wildlife management measures.

Local authorities in the affected areas have issued safety warnings and increased patrols, emphasizing the importance of public caution as the animals' range appears to be expanding beyond traditional habitats.