Tourism Spots · Kanagawa
Ōwakudani Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Ōwakudani, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Ōwakudani has been seeing black bear activity across the wider Hakone and western Kanagawa area, and the sharpest recent note came on April 15, 2026 in Matsuda 松田惣領, where 1 black bear was reported. Another close call followed on April 11, 2026 in Gotemba 水土野, where 1 black bear was seen running across the road.
The busiest stretch has been in November 2025, when 25 incidents were logged, with October 2025 also busy at 11 and December 2025 still active at 7. Reports have kept coming through January 2026 and February 2026, and the broader record for Ōwakudani now stands at 182 black bear sightings overall.
Ōwakudani Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Ōwakudani
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Ōwakudani?
Ōwakudani has recorded 182 bear incidents in total, with 2 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 Ōwakudani?
The most recent bear sighting in Ōwakudani was on April 15, 2026 in Matsuda 松田惣領, Kanagawa, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Ōwakudani?
Recent bear sightings in Ōwakudani have been concentrated in Matsuda 松田庶子 (20), Yamakita (19), Yamakita 向原 (11). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Ōwakudani?
Activity has slowed. 0 incidents in the last 7 days, 2 in the last 30 days.
What type of bears are in Ōwakudani?
Ōwakudani 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.