Cities & Towns · Tochigi
Sano Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Sano, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Sano’s latest report came on April 26, 2026, when a single black bear about 1 m long was seen around 18:00 in Hatakawauchi, Tomuro-machi, about 200 m southwest of Asono Gakuen Compulsory Education School. Another sighting was also reported that same day in Kuzuu Nishi San chome, keeping the pressure close to homes and schools.
The most active spots have been Tomuro-machi, Terakubocho, Tanoinu-cho, Takasagocho, and Izuruharacho, with activity showing up again and again around the city. Reports were busiest in January 2026 with 10 sightings and February 2026 with 8, after November 2025 brought 12 and October 2025 brought 8; Sano has recorded 94 black bear sightings overall.
Sano Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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吉水駅前だけで2月24日に何件も報告されてるのか、同じクマが何度も目撃されてるのかな。
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Sano
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Sano?
Sano has recorded 94 bear incidents in total, with 11 reported in the last 30 days and 3 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 Sano?
The most recent bear sighting in Sano was on April 26, 2026 in Sano 戸室町, Tochigi, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Sano?
Recent bear sightings in Sano have been concentrated in Sano City (9), Sano 戸室町 (4), Sano 寺久保町 (4). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Sano?
Activity has slowed. 3 incidents in the last 7 days, 11 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Sano?
Sano 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.