Tourism Spots · Kanagawa
Lake Ashi Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Lake Ashi, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Lake Ashi’s latest black bear report came on April 11, 2026 in Gotemba 水土野, where 1 bear was seen running across the road. That is the clearest fresh sign that bears are still moving through the wider Lake Ashi area, with other recent reports also turning up in Hakone and nearby towns.
The most active places in this record are Atami City, Kannami, Mishima, and Gotemba, with the busiest stretch falling in January 2026, when reports climbed to 8. The overall record for Lake Ashi stands at 89 black bear sightings, and the pattern shows a strong run through late autumn and winter, including 10 in November 2025, 5 in October 2025, and 3 in December 2025.
Lake Ashi Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Lake Ashi
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Lake Ashi?
Lake Ashi has recorded 89 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 Lake Ashi?
The most recent bear sighting in Lake Ashi was on April 11, 2026 in Gotemba 水土野, Shizuoka, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Lake Ashi?
Recent bear sightings in Lake Ashi have been concentrated in Minamiashigara (8), Hakone 仙石原 (7), Hakone 木賀 (6). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Lake Ashi?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 1 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Lake Ashi?
Lake Ashi 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.