Cities & Towns · Niigata
Nagaoka Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Nagaoka, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Nagaoka’s most recent report came on April 23, 2026 in Mizusawa, where one cub was seen while driving on Prefectural Route 442 and moved westward. Earlier that same morning, another bear was reported in Aketo on a mountain path about 100 meters from nearby houses, and two more sightings were logged in the city during the early morning around 06:30.
The busiest parts of Nagaoka have been places where forest, roads, and homes meet, including Muramatsu cho, Makibuchi 4, Aketo, and Mizusawa. Activity peaked in October 2025 with 167 incidents and stayed high in November 2025 with 131, while the area has recorded 1,840 black bear sightings overall.
Nagaoka Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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1月中旬から下旬にかけて一気に報告が集中してるな。
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Nagaoka
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Nagaoka?
Nagaoka has recorded 1,840 bear incidents in total, with 21 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 Nagaoka?
The most recent bear sighting in Nagaoka was on April 23, 2026 in Nagaoka 水沢, Niigata, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Nagaoka?
Recent bear sightings in Nagaoka have been concentrated in Nagaoka 西片貝町 (10), Nagaoka 巻渕四丁目 (9), Nagaoka 濁沢町 (8). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Nagaoka?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 21 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Nagaoka?
Nagaoka 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.