Tourism Spots · Yamanashi
Lake Shōji Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Lake Shōji, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Lake Shōji is seeing black bear activity close by 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 near Uzasuku no Sato, and police were alerted while patrols began. Another report from the same day also placed a suspected bear on a major bend of the same road in Kōfu City, which shows how recently these animals have been moving along road corridors near the lake area.
The heaviest pressure has been in the broader western Yamanashi area, especially around Kōfu, Minobu, and Fujikawaguchiko, where reports keep coming from roads, riverbeds, and trail approaches. Activity peaked in November 2025 with 37 incidents, stayed high through July 2025 with 28 and June 2025 with 27, then settled into winter and spring while the area has recorded 480 black bear sightings overall.
Lake Shōji Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Lake Shōji
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Lake Shōji?
Lake Shōji has recorded 480 bear incidents in total, with 3 reported in the last 30 days and 3 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 Shōji?
The most recent bear sighting in Lake Shōji 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 Shōji?
Recent bear sightings in Lake Shōji have been concentrated in Fujikawaguchiko Funatsu (10), Fujikawaguchiko Kawaguchi (8), Fujikawaguchiko (8). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Lake Shōji?
Activity is elevated. 3 of the 3 monthly incidents occurred in the last 7 days.
What type of bears are in Lake Shōji?
Lake Shōji 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.