Cities & Towns · Hokkaido
Ashibetsu Brown Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Ashibetsu, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Ashibetsu’s latest bear report came on March 27, 2026, when 1 brown bear was seen along National Route 452 in Asahimachi, about 200 m from Yayoi Bridge toward Yutani. The bear moved from the mountain side toward the river side and then disappeared.
The same corridor has stayed active around Route 452 in Asahimachi and Asahimachi Yuya, while Nishi Ashibetsu has also had repeated sightings near residential ground and garbage areas, so the edge of town remains the main trouble spot. Activity has been busiest in September 2025 with 15 reports and October 2025 with 12, after a smaller rise in March 2026 with 3 reports and December 2025 with 3; across Ashibetsu, the record now stands at 145 brown bear sightings.
Ashibetsu Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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Comments (1)
西芦別町に集中してるな。12月だけで3件も出てる。
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Ashibetsu
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Ashibetsu?
Ashibetsu has 145 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 Ashibetsu?
The most recent bear sighting in Ashibetsu was on March 26, 2026 in Ashibetsu Asahicho, Hokkaido, where 1 Brown Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Ashibetsu?
Recent bear sightings in Ashibetsu have been concentrated in Ashibetsu Nokanancho (17), Ashibetsu Kami-Ashibetsucho (12), Ashibetsu Asahimachi-Yuya (10). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Ashibetsu?
No recent activity to assess.
What type of bears are in Ashibetsu?
Ashibetsu is home to brown bears (Ussuri brown bear), which can weigh up to 500kg and are found only in Hokkaido. They are active from spring through autumn. Always carry bear bells and bear spray when hiking.