Tourism Spots · Yamanashi
Lake Motosu Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Lake Motosu, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Lake Motosu’s latest reported black bear activity came on May 8, 2026, when a truck driver on National Route 358 in Kōfu Nakabatakecho spotted a bear like animal about 1 meter long on the road, and the same day another suspected bear was seen near Utsubukunosato in Kōfu City. On May 5, 2026, a hiker descending near Kagikatoge trailhead in Fujikawaguchiko Saikonishi saw a bear like animal close to the trailhead, though it could not be confirmed.
The most active areas in this record are around Kōfu City, Minobu Town, and Fujikawaguchiko, where road edges, riverbeds, and trail approaches keep turning up sightings. Activity peaked in November 2025 with 32 incidents and again in July 2025 with 32, while December 2025 still saw 13 reports and April 2026 logged 4; across the area, there have been 417 black bear sightings in total.
Lake Motosu Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Lake Motosu
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Lake Motosu?
Lake Motosu has recorded 417 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 Motosu?
The most recent bear sighting in Lake Motosu was on May 7, 2026 in Kōfu Nakabatakecho, Yamanashi, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Lake Motosu?
Recent bear sightings in Lake Motosu have been concentrated in Fujikawaguchiko Funatsu (9), Fujikawaguchiko (7), Fujinomiya 原 (5). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Lake Motosu?
Activity is elevated. 2 of the 3 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 days.
What type of bears are in Lake Motosu?
Lake Motosu 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.