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. There were 2 incidents in the past 30 days, with no new reports in the past 7 days. Activity is not increasing, but there are still reports within the month. Recent reports include Otaru Boyodai and Otaru Tenjin. The area has 62 recorded incidents in total.
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Otaru Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
Recent trips through Otaru
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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 recorded 62 bear incidents in total, with 2 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 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?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 2 in the last 30 days.
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.