Cities & Towns · Shiga
Otsu Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Otsu, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Otsu’s latest black bear report came on April 30, 2026 at 7:00 AM, when one black bear was seen on National Route 477 in Otsu Ikadachi Shimozaijicho, moving from east to west. Earlier that month, bears were also reported in Otsu Ikadachi Kamizaijicho on April 14, 2026, and the area has also seen activity in Otsu Ikadachi Namazucho on April 16, 2026 and in Otsu Sakamoto 5 chome on January 23, 2026.
The most active ground has been around Otsu Ikadachi, Otsu Wani Kasuga 2 chome, Otsu Wani Imajuku, and Otsu Sakamoto 5 chome, with signs that bears are turning up near roads, homes, and forest edges. Activity peaked in November 2025 with 17 incidents, followed by June 2025 with 12, and Otsu has recorded 128 black bear sightings overall.
Otsu Bear Incident Map
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Wani-kasuga 2-chome twice in one month?
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Otsu
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Otsu?
Otsu has recorded 128 bear incidents in total, with 4 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 Otsu?
The most recent bear sighting in Otsu was on April 29, 2026 in Otsu Ikadachi-Shimozaijicho, Shiga, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Otsu?
Recent bear sightings in Otsu have been concentrated in Otsu Minamikomatsu (10), Otsu Hachiyado (7), Otsu Ikadachi-Kamiryugecho (5). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Otsu?
Activity has slowed. 1 incidents in the last 7 days, 4 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Otsu?
Otsu 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.