Cities & Towns · Fukushima
Shirakawa Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Shirakawa, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Shirakawa’s most recent black bear report came on March 15, 2026, when one bear about 1 meter long was seen in the grassy fields near National Route 4 in Odagawa Miyanomae. Earlier that same day, another report placed a bear like animal in the fields near Miyanomae, Odagawa, and no injuries or property damage have been reported.
The most active areas in Shirakawa have been around Shirasaka, Odagawa Miyanomae, and the fields along National Route 4, where bears have been seen crossing roads or moving through grassland. Activity has stayed steady through late winter and early spring, with 8 reports in January 2026, 8 in February 2026, and 4 in March 2026, and the area has recorded 91 black bear sightings in total.
Shirakawa Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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Comments (1)
Odagawa Miyanomae getting two reports on the same day in March, then the whole Shirasaka area getting hit four times within hours on February 1st? Is it typically this concentrated in specific spots like this?
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Shirakawa
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Shirakawa?
Shirakawa has 91 recorded bear incidents in total, but no activity has been reported in the last 30 days. Bear activity varies seasonally, so always check the latest status before hiking or spending time outdoors.
When and where was the latest bear incident in Shirakawa?
The most recent bear sighting in Shirakawa was on March 15, 2026 in Odagawa Miyanomae, Shirakawa, Fukushima, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Shirakawa?
Recent bear sightings in Shirakawa have been concentrated in Shirakawa City (10), Shirakawa 白坂 (6), Shirakawa 大信豊地 (6). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Shirakawa?
No recent activity to assess.
What type of bears are in Shirakawa?
Shirakawa is home to Asian black bears, which weigh up to 120kg and inhabit the mountains of Honshu and Shikoku. They are generally shy but can be dangerous when surprised or protecting cubs. Carry bear bells while hiking.