Tourism Spots · Nagano
Ontake Prefectural Natural Park Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Ontake Prefectural Natural Park, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Ontake Prefectural Natural Park saw its most striking recent report on April 28, 2026 in Otaki, where a mother bear and cub were seen together, and another cub was also reported the same day. That follows several more Otaki sightings in April 2026, including an adult bear on April 16 and April 15, plus a juvenile on April 19.
Most of the activity is concentrated in Otaki, with another notable report from Gero Osakacho Ochiai on April 11, 2026 and an earlier adult bear in Otaki 九蔵 on March 16, 2026. The busiest stretch came in July 2025, September 2025, and October 2025, and the park has recorded 621 black bear sightings overall.
Ontake Prefectural Natural Park Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
Recent trips through Ontake Prefectural Natural Park
Nearby Areas
Comments (0)
No comments yet.
Hiking in bear country
Safety picks and trail essentials, top-rated on Amazon and Rakuten.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park?
Ontake Prefectural Natural Park has recorded 621 bear incidents in total, with 6 reported in the last 30 days and 0 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 Ontake Prefectural Natural Park?
The most recent bear sighting in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park was on April 27, 2026 in Otaki, Nagano, where 3 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park?
Recent bear sightings in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park have been concentrated in Otaki 上条 (12), Otaki 下条 (11), Kiso (11). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 6 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Ontake Prefectural Natural Park?
Ontake Prefectural Natural Park 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.


