Tourism Spots · Shiga
Lake Biwa Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Lake Biwa, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Lake Biwa's most recent black bear report came on May 6, 2026 at 17:40, when 1 bear was seen about 100 m north of Saga Kusanoné House in Takashima. Just two days earlier, on May 4, 2026 at 21:00, another 1 bear was reported about 500 meters southeast of Umenoko Sports Park in Takashima, showing that this side of the lake is still seeing fresh activity.
The busiest ground has been Takashima and the Otsu lakeshore edge, with reports around Wani-imajuku, Hachiyado, and Katsuragawa Umenokicho, along with Shin Asahi Town Kumano moto and Kamogawadaira 1 chome farther north. Activity has peaked in June 2025 with 7 incidents, and October 2024 followed with 6, while the area has logged 57 black bear sightings overall.
Lake Biwa Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Lake Biwa
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Lake Biwa?
Lake Biwa has recorded 57 bear incidents in total, with 3 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 Lake Biwa?
The most recent bear sighting in Lake Biwa was on May 6, 2026 in Takashima, Shiga, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Lake Biwa?
Recent bear sightings in Lake Biwa have been concentrated in Otsu Minamikomatsu (12), Takashima (11), Otsu Hachiyado (5). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Lake Biwa?
Activity is elevated. 2 of the 3 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 days.
What type of bears are in Lake Biwa?
Lake Biwa 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.