Tourism Spots · Kyoto
Kifune Shrine Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Kifune Shrine, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Kifune Shrine is watching the bear situation closely after a black bear was seen on the back mountain of Ninna ji in Kyoto on May 3, 2026, following the late evening report from Nishigamo in Kita Ward on May 6, 2026 that led residents to alert police and the ward office. Those sightings sit right beside a cluster of April reports in Ukyo Ward and the Kiyotaki River area, where a mother and cubs and other groups were seen near temples and roads.
Across this region, the most active places have been Kyoto City, especially Ukyo Ward around Ninna ji, Arashiyama, and the Kiyotaki River, with another sighting along National Route 477 in Otsu. Activity peaked in November with 50 incidents and stayed heavy in October with 25 and December with 11, before easing through January with 5, March with 3, and April with 10; this area has recorded 504 black bear sightings overall.
Kifune Shrine Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Kifune Shrine
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Kifune Shrine?
Kifune Shrine has recorded 504 bear incidents in total, with 13 reported in the last 30 days and 2 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 Kifune Shrine?
The most recent bear sighting in Kifune Shrine was on May 6, 2026 in Kyoto, Kyoto, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Kifune Shrine?
Recent bear sightings in Kifune Shrine have been concentrated in Kyoto (14), Kyoto Uzumasa-Goryodencho (3), Kyoto Ohara-Kodeishicho (3). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Kifune Shrine?
Activity has slowed. 2 incidents in the last 7 days, 13 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Kifune Shrine?
Kifune Shrine 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.