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 its most recent black bear incident on April 25, 2026 in Kaminoyama, where a young Asiatic black bear cub crossed the road and headed up toward the higher part of the mountain. That is the newest sign that bears are still moving through the slopes and access roads around the area.
The busiest places have been around Kaminoyama, Yamagata City, and the Zaō Onsen side, with repeated sightings near roads, parking areas, and the edges of communities. Activity was highest in October 2025 with 32 incidents, and it stayed active through November 2025 with 18, December 2025 with 9, and January 2026 with 6, showing that bears have continued to appear through the colder months. Mount Zaō has recorded 327 black bear sightings in total.
Mount Zaō Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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Namerikawa coming up twice in one week
Hiking in bear country
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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 1 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 is elevated. 1 of the 1 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 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.