Tourism Spots · Kyoto
Nanzen-ji Temple Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Nanzen-ji Temple, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Nanzen-ji Temple is seeing the same pressure that has been building across the Kyoto foothills: on May 10, 2026 at 21:30, a black bear was reported in Otsu Ikadachi Minamishocho near Ōgimachi. That follows a run of close sightings in the Kyoto side of the hills, including May 6 in Nishigamo and a cluster on April 25 around Kiyotaki River, Kōzan ji, and Arashiyama.
The busiest ground has been around Ukyo Ward, especially the Ninna ji and Kiyotaki River area, where access was restricted after repeated bear reports. Activity peaks in November with 60 incidents and stays heavy in October with 35 and December with 17, while the full record for this area now stands at 377 black bear sightings.
Nanzen-ji Temple Bear Incident Map
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Nanzen-ji Temple
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Nanzen-ji Temple?
Nanzen-ji Temple has recorded 377 bear incidents in total, with 13 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 Nanzen-ji Temple?
The most recent bear sighting in Nanzen-ji Temple 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 Nanzen-ji Temple?
Recent bear sightings in Nanzen-ji Temple have been concentrated in Kyoto (11), 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 Nanzen-ji Temple?
Activity has slowed. 2 incidents in the last 7 days, 13 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Nanzen-ji Temple?
Nanzen-ji Temple 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.