Tourism Spots · Nara
Kii Peninsula Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Kii Peninsula, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Kii Peninsula saw its most recent black bear report on May 6, 2026, when 1 bear was recorded in Kamikitayama at 13:35. Earlier this spring, a jet black bear over 1 meter long came down a slope in Yoshino on April 5, 2026 at 07:00, ran across a forest road, and disappeared down the hillside.
The busiest pockets have been around Oyodo, Higashiyoshino, and Kamikitayama, with other reports also coming from Tenkawa, Gojo, and Kurotaki. Activity peaked in December 2025 with 23 reports and stayed high in November 2025 with 16, while the area has logged 87 black bear sightings overall.
Kii Peninsula Bear Incident Map
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No incidents in this time range
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Kii Peninsula
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Kii Peninsula?
Kii Peninsula has recorded 87 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 Kii Peninsula?
The most recent bear sighting in Kii Peninsula was on April 4, 2026 in Yoshino, Nara, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Kii Peninsula?
Recent bear sightings in Kii Peninsula have been concentrated in Kamikitayama (7), Shimoichi Zengi (6), Shimoichi Yomura (6). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Kii Peninsula?
Activity is elevated. 1 of the 1 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 days.
What type of bears are in Kii Peninsula?
Kii Peninsula 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.