Major Cities · Niigata
Niigata Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Niigata, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Niigata’s most recent black bear report came on April 26, 2026 at 21:00, when one bear was sighted and its route afterward was unknown. Earlier this year, bears were also reported near the Yamatakatsu Community Development Center in Joetsu City on February 20, 2026 at 07:35, showing that these sightings are still reaching the edges of communities.
The heaviest activity has clustered around Niigata City, especially in Akiha Ward, Higashijima, Tai 3 chome, and Shimoshin, while Joetsu City has also had recent reports. The pace peaked in November 2025 with 37 incidents, then stayed active into October 2025 with 17 and January 2026 with 5, and the area has recorded 98 black bear sightings overall.
Niigata Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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Comments (1)
秋葉区を中心に11月末時点で28件と過去最多になったって書いてあるから、相当増えてるんだな。
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Niigata
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Niigata?
Niigata has recorded 98 bear incidents in total, with 1 reported in the last 30 days and 1 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 Niigata?
The most recent bear sighting in Niigata was on April 26, 2026 in Niigata, Niigata, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Niigata?
Recent bear sightings in Niigata have been concentrated in Niigata Shiodani (12), Niigata Asahi (11), Niigata Shimoshin (10). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Niigata?
Activity is elevated. 1 of the 1 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 days.
What type of bears are in Niigata?
Niigata 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.