Cities & Towns · Hokkaido
Otaru Brown Bear Incidents
Brown Bear sighting and incident data compiled from official government records, news outlets, and community reports.
Latest Bear Activity in Otaru
Otaru had a Brown Bear report in Otaru Boyodai on June 8, 2026. No new incidents have been reported in the past 30 days. Recent activity is quiet, though this area has past records. The area has 62 recorded incidents in total.
Otaru Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
Recent trips through Otaru
Places in Hokkaido
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Katsuraoka Elementary School came up four times in just three days around mid-November.
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Otaru
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Otaru?
Otaru has 62 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 Otaru?
The most recent bear sighting in Otaru was on June 7, 2026 in Otaru Boyodai, Hokkaido, where 1 Brown Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Otaru?
Recent bear sightings in Otaru have been concentrated in Otaru Katsuraokacho (12), Katsuraoka, Otaru City (3), Otaru Harukacho (3). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Otaru?
No recent activity to assess.
What type of bears are in Otaru?
Otaru 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.