Osaki, Japan, Experiences Record Surge in Bear Encounters in 2025
In 2025, the town of Osaki in Akita Prefecture, with a population of approximately 128,000, has recorded an unprecedented rise in bear sightings, with about 400 encounters compared to fewer than 100 in 2024. Nationwide, Japan experienced a record 13 deaths from suspected bear maulings between April and November, alongside 197 bear attacks.
Japan's bear population is increasing, with an estimated 44,000 Asian black bears and around 12,000 Ussuri brown bears in Hokkaido. Bears are expanding their presence into Honshu and possibly towards Kyushu. Factors contributing to this surge include food shortages caused by poor acorn and beechnut harvests, an aging population of licensed hunters, erosion of satoyama borders, and climate-related changes delaying bear hibernation.
Osaki declared a state of emergency and implemented measures throughout the year-end period. The Self-Defense Forces have been deployed to trap and dispose of problem bears. To date, authorities have culled over 2,000 bears nationwide. Notable incidents this year include a woman in her 70s injured by a bear outside her home, a bear stealing a dog, the death of an 80-year-old hunter near a trapped bear, and an attack on a man in his 70s while clearing snow.
Officials highlighted the proximity of bear conflicts to urban areas and emphasized the challenge of balancing resident safety with bear conservation. Akita Governor Kenta Suzuki defended the culling efforts as necessary to prevent damage to urban and agricultural areas.
Experts noted that many bears are delaying hibernation as they continue food searches. Some scientists predict that 2026 may see a reduction in bear encounters if beechnut harvests improve, though the risk of renewed sightings remains.
