Cities & Towns · Iwate
Ofunato Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Ofunato, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Ofunato’s most recent black bear report came on April 9, 2026 at Ritsunecho near the Ritsune police post, where a single adult bear about 1 meter long was seen around 3:50 p.m. and headed west toward the mountains. Another close call came on November 5, 2025 near Iwate Prefectural Ofunato Hospital in Yamamakoshi, where a small bear believed to be a cub was spotted by a resident, and no injuries or property damage were reported.
Most of the recent activity has clustered around Ofunato City neighborhoods and edges of town, including Sakari, Yamamakoshi, Takkoncho, Sanrikucho Ryori, and Ikawacho. Reports peak in November, with 2 incidents in November 2025, while the area has recorded 10 black bear sightings overall, showing that bears continue to turn up across the city in different seasons.
Ofunato Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Ofunato
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Ofunato?
Ofunato has recorded 10 bear incidents in total, with 1 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 Ofunato?
The most recent bear sighting in Ofunato was on April 9, 2026 in Ofunato Ikawacho, Iwate, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Ofunato?
Recent bear sightings in Ofunato have been concentrated in Ofunato Ikawacho (1), Near Iwate Prefectural Ofunato Hospital (Yamamakoshi, Ofunato City) (1), Sakari, Ofunato City (1). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Ofunato?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 1 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Ofunato?
Ofunato 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.