Major Cities · Kyoto
Kyoto Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Kyoto, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Kyoto’s most recent alarm came on April 26, 2026, when 3 black bears believed to be a parent and cubs were reported on a road in Ukyo Ward, and earlier that same day three bears were also seen near the Kiyotaki River and around Kōyasan-ji in Ukyo Ward. On April 25, another sighting near Arashiyama sent the same family group fleeing north, showing how quickly these animals are turning up along the western edge of the city.
The hottest ground has been Ukyo Ward, with repeated reports around Kiyotaki River, Kōyasan-ji, and Arashiyama, while Kita Ward and Keihoku have also seen activity. The pace peaks in November 2025 with 40 reports and stays high in October 2025 with 26, then drops through winter but does not disappear, and Kyoto has recorded 447 black bear sightings overall.
Kyoto Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
Places in Kyoto
Comments (1)
Early December was packed with five incidents in just one week across different areas.
Hiking in bear country
Safety picks and trail essentials, top-rated on Amazon and Rakuten.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Kyoto
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Kyoto?
Kyoto has recorded 447 bear incidents in total, with 5 reported in the last 30 days and 5 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 Kyoto?
The most recent bear sighting in Kyoto was on April 25, 2026 in Kyoto, Kyoto, where 3 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Kyoto?
Recent bear sightings in Kyoto have been concentrated in Kyoto Hanase-Ofusecho (4), Kyoto Uzumasa-Goryodencho (3), Kyoto Ohara-Kodeishicho (3). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Kyoto?
Activity is elevated. 5 of the 5 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 days.
What type of bears are in Kyoto?
Kyoto 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.