Tourism Spots · Akita
Lake Tazawa Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Lake Tazawa, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Lake Tazawa's most striking recent report came on May 8, 2026, in Senboku Kakunodatemachi Sonoda, where three black bears were seen, including two about 0.5 m long and one about 1 m long, roughly 100 m from nearby houses. Other recent encounters have also stayed close to people, including a bear in a tree on May 4, 2026 in Senboku and a mother bear with cubs crossing the road near Kuroyu Onsen on May 1, 2026.
The busiest ground is around Senboku, especially Kakunodatemachi Sonoda, Kakunodatemachi Kumoshikari, and Kakunodatemachi Yamayakawasaki, with additional sightings near Nishikicho Koyamada and Daisen Toyooka. Activity peaks in October with 322 reports and stays high in November with 154, then drops through winter before rising again in April with 21; the area has recorded 1,198 black bear sightings in total.
Lake Tazawa Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Lake Tazawa
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Lake Tazawa?
Lake Tazawa has recorded 1,198 bear incidents in total, with 22 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 Tazawa?
The most recent bear sighting in Lake Tazawa was on April 30, 2026 in Senboku, Akita, where 2 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Lake Tazawa?
Recent bear sightings in Lake Tazawa have been concentrated in Semboku Kakunodatemachi (29), Senboku (10), Semboku Kakunodatemachi-Ogata (10). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Lake Tazawa?
Activity has slowed. 2 incidents in the last 7 days, 22 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Lake Tazawa?
Lake Tazawa 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.