SINGAPORE – Going to Japan? Beware of bears. From April 2025 to March 2026, the country recorded a historic high of 238 bear attacks and 13 deaths, according to its Environment Ministry.

These incidents have been concentrated in the Tohoku region – the mountainous northern part of Japan’s main island of Honshu, about 90 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train – as well as parts of Hokkaido.

Japan is home to two main bear species – the medium-sized Asiatic black bear and the larger Ussuri brown bear, which can weigh more than 400kg at full maturity.

Researchers say the rise in bear sightings, including in urban areas, is driven by factors including climate change, habitat loss and Japan’s declining rural population. 

While bear attacks are not new, their rising frequency and proximity to populated areas are growing concerns for travellers, says Dr Paul Chen, a lecturer at Republic Polytechnic’s School of Applied Science, whose research focuses on animal behaviour.

“Bear attacks in other countries tend to occur in remote agricultural areas where tourists rarely go,” he adds. 

“In Japan, however, there are more accessible transitional zones between forests and urban areas that travellers can visit, so the incidence of attacks may be more common.”

From April 2024 to March 2025, Japan had 85 casualties and three deaths due to bear attacks.

Still, industry players say the risk to tourists remains manageable. Mr Ben Julius, founder of travel company Tourist Japan, is not overly concerned as most itineraries focus on major cities and well-frequented destinations.

He says the company may adjust travel plans as a precaution, such as avoiding areas with active bear ...