Cities & Towns · Miyagi
Zao Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Zao, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Zao’s most recent black bear report came on January 22, 2026 at 15:10, when a bear was sighted in Zao, and another was reported the same day at 14:00 in Zao 遠刈田温泉栄町. Earlier winter reports also came from Zao 大字塩沢, Zao 宮, Zao 大字矢附, and Zao 遠刈田温泉旭町, showing that the activity is still reaching both town and settlement edges.
The heaviest stretch of activity has been in October 2025, when reports peaked at 27, followed by November 2025 with 21 and then December 2025 with 6. Across Zao, black bear sightings have reached 238 overall, and the most active areas in the recent record include Zao 大字塩沢 and Zao 遠刈田温泉旭町.
Zao Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
Places in Miyagi
Comments (1)
蔵王町で238件の出没記録があるなか、最近は1月から12月にかけてずっと報告が続いてるんだな。
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Zao
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Zao?
Zao has 238 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 Zao?
The most recent bear sighting in Zao was on January 22, 2026 in Zao, Miyagi, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Zao?
Recent bear sightings in Zao have been concentrated in Zao 遠刈田温泉栄町 (21), Zao 大字平沢 (18), Zao 遠刈田温泉旭町 (16). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Zao?
No recent activity to assess.
What type of bears are in Zao?
Zao 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.