Mountains & Hiking · Kyoto
Arashiyama Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Arashiyama, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Arashiyama’s most recent close call came on April 25, 2026, when three black bears, believed to be a mother and two cubs, were seen along the Kiyotaki River near Kōzan-ji and Ninna-ji in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City. The group was reported in the morning, and nearby temple access on the hillside was restricted after the sighting.
The heaviest activity has been around the Kiyotaki River corridor, Ninna-ji, and the back mountain slopes of Arashiyama, with other recent reports reaching into Nishigamo in Kita Ward and Nakagawa Kawatō near Kitayama. Activity peaked in November 2025 with 27 incidents, stayed high in October 2025 with 19, and remained active in December 2025 with 10, while this area has recorded 229 black bear sightings overall.
Arashiyama Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
Recent trips through Arashiyama
Nearby Areas
Comments (0)
No comments yet.
Hiking in bear country
Safety picks and trail essentials, top-rated on Amazon and Rakuten.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Arashiyama
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Arashiyama?
Arashiyama has recorded 229 bear incidents in total, with 8 reported in the last 30 days and 2 in the last 7 days. These reports are compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions, and can be viewed on the incident map.
When and where was the latest bear incident in Arashiyama?
The most recent bear sighting in Arashiyama was on May 6, 2026 in Kyoto, Kyoto, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Arashiyama?
Recent bear sightings in Arashiyama have been concentrated in Kyoto (9), Kyoto Oharano-Minamikasugacho (5), Kyoto Oharano-Kitakasugacho (4). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Arashiyama?
Activity has slowed. 2 incidents in the last 7 days, 8 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Arashiyama?
Arashiyama 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.