Mountains & Hiking · Kyoto
Mount Kurama Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Mount Kurama, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Mount Kurama has been seeing fresh black bear activity in the Kyoto area, with the latest report on May 6, 2026 in Nishigamo, Kita Ward, Kyoto City, where two residents said they saw one young bear like animal in a residential neighborhood at 20:00. Just days earlier, on May 3, 2026, a bear was sighted on the back mountain of Ninna ji, and the hillside spot was closed to entry.
The busiest ground has been around Ukyo Ward and the Kiyotaki River corridor, with repeated sightings near Ninna ji, Kōzan ji, and the river itself, while Otsu also saw reports along National Route 477 and in Ikadachi. Activity peaked in November 2025 with 38 incidents, and the broader record for this area now stands at 267 black bear sightings overall.
Mount Kurama Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Mount Kurama
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Mount Kurama?
Mount Kurama has recorded 267 bear incidents in total, with 11 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 Mount Kurama?
The most recent bear sighting in Mount Kurama 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 Mount Kurama?
Recent bear sightings in Mount Kurama have been concentrated in Kyoto (14), Kyoto Ohara-Kodeishicho (4), Kyoto Iwakura-Nakazaijicho (4). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Mount Kurama?
Activity has slowed. 2 incidents in the last 7 days, 11 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Mount Kurama?
Mount Kurama 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.