Tourism Spots · Shiga
Lake Biwa Canal Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Lake Biwa Canal, 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 Canal’s most recent black bear incident came on May 15, 2026 in Otsu Ogicho, where one bear was caught accidentally. That follows a May 10, 2026 report from Otsu Ikadachi Minamishocho, and earlier spring sightings kept the attention on the Kyoto side of the canal country.
The busiest ground has been around Kyoto and Otsu, especially in the Ukyo Ward and Kiyotaki River area of Kyoto, along with Otsu neighborhoods such as Ikadachi Shimozaijicho and Ogicho. Activity peaks in November 2025 with 56 reports, then stays elevated in December 2025 with 17 and April 2026 with 9, with the area recording 293 black bear sightings overall.
Lake Biwa Canal Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Lake Biwa Canal
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Lake Biwa Canal?
Lake Biwa Canal has recorded 293 bear incidents in total, with 12 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 Canal?
The most recent bear sighting in Lake Biwa Canal was on May 10, 2026 in Otsu Ikadachi-Minamishocho, 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 Canal?
Recent bear sightings in Lake Biwa Canal have been concentrated in Kyoto (12), Kyoto Uzumasa-Goryodencho (3), Otsu Hiyoshidai 3-chome (3). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Lake Biwa Canal?
Activity has slowed. 2 incidents in the last 7 days, 12 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Lake Biwa Canal?
Lake Biwa Canal 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.