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Kasuga-taisha Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Kasuga-taisha, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Kasuga-taisha has recently seen a tense encounter in Heguri Midorigaoka 6 chome on April 10, 2026, when a black bear came down from the hill beside the pond and got to within about 5 meters before being driven off by loud shouting. The latest reports also include two bears sighted on an agricultural road in Nakagaito, Tsubai, Yamashiro cho, Kizugawa City on March 28, 2026, showing that animals are still moving through the edges of settled ground.
The busiest ground has been around Kizugawa City and nearby Nara districts such as Hokaji no Furoda, Kamo cho, Kamikoma, Kitadaimon, Ninnikusencho, and Nara Besshiyocho, with additional reports from Heguri. Activity peaks in November 2025 with 60 incidents and stays high through October 2025 with 45 and June 2025 with 42, while the area has recorded 247 black bear sightings overall.
Kasuga-taisha Bear Incident Map
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No incidents in this time range
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Kasuga-taisha
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Kasuga-taisha?
Kasuga-taisha has recorded 247 bear incidents in total, with 1 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 Kasuga-taisha?
The most recent bear sighting in Kasuga-taisha was on March 19, 2026 in Nara Besshiyocho, Nara, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Kasuga-taisha?
Recent bear sightings in Kasuga-taisha have been concentrated in Kizugawa Umemidai 3-chome (12), Kizugawa Umedani (9), Kizugawa Kamocho-Hokkejino (8). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Kasuga-taisha?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 1 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Kasuga-taisha?
Kasuga-taisha 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.