Mountains & Hiking · Yamagata
Mount Zaō Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Mount Zaō, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Mount Zaō saw a young Asiatic black bear cub crossing the road in Kaminoyama on April 25, 2026 at 14:30, and the animal was moving up toward the higher part of the mountain. The most recent winter reports also came from Yamagata Zao onsen on March 20, 2026 at 20:46, showing that bears have continued to appear in the mountain area and nearby settlements.
The most active places in this record are Kaminoyama, Yamagata City, and the Zao Onsen area, with repeated sightings around roads, parking areas, and places near dwellings. Activity peaked in October 2025 with 32 incidents, stayed high in August 2025 with 23, and remained active into November 2025 with 18, while Mount Zaō has recorded 327 black bear sightings in all.
Mount Zaō Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Mount Zaō
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Mount Zaō?
Mount Zaō has recorded 327 bear incidents in total, with 1 reported in the last 30 days and 0 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 Zaō?
The most recent bear sighting in Mount Zaō was on April 25, 2026 in Kaminoyama, Yamagata, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Mount Zaō?
Recent bear sightings in Mount Zaō have been concentrated in Yamagata Namekawa (16), Yamagata Zao-Hotta (12), Zao 遠刈田温泉栄町 (11). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Mount Zaō?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 1 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Mount Zaō?
Mount Zaō 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.