Cities & Towns · Iwate
Kuji Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Kuji, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Kuji’s most recent sharp warning came on April 27, 2026 at around 15:00, when 1 black bear was sighted near Kosode Elementary School in Ubecho, a place where people and bears came uncomfortably close. Earlier in the same run of reports, another bear was seen on April 30, 2026 in Kawasakicho, keeping the area on alert.
Across Kuji, the most active spots in this stretch have been Ubecho, Nagauchimachi, Yamagatacho Shimobatake, and Kawasakicho, with reports clustering around schools, former school grounds, and nearby residential edges. Activity peaks have come in November with 8 sightings and in April 2025 with 2, and Kuji has recorded 36 black bear sightings overall.
Kuji Bear Incident Map
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A cub at 3:30 in the morning near City Hall?
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Kuji
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Kuji?
Kuji has recorded 36 bear incidents in total, with 14 reported in the last 30 days and 4 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 Kuji?
The most recent bear sighting in Kuji was on April 29, 2026 in Kuji Kawasakicho, Iwate, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Kuji?
Recent bear sightings in Kuji have been concentrated in Kuji Kawasakicho (3), Kuji Kawanuki (2), Kuji 山形町霜畑 (1). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Kuji?
Activity has slowed. 4 incidents in the last 7 days, 14 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Kuji?
Kuji 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.