Tourism Spots · Tochigi
Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji is watching the freshest sign of trouble from March 17, 2026, when 2 black bears were reported to have possibly appeared at the riverside on the Tochigi Gunma prefectural border. Another bear was also sighted on a mountain trail in Utsunomiya City on March 8, 2026, keeping the spring track of sightings active in this area.
Across this area, the most active places have been Utsunomiya City, the Tochigi side of Tsuga Town Fukazawa, Iwade Town, and Oyama. Activity has peaked in October and stayed busy into March and November, and Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji has recorded 20 black bear sightings overall.
Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji 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 Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji?
Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji has 20 recorded bear incidents in total, but no activity has been reported in the last 30 days. Bear activity varies seasonally, so always check the latest status before hiking or spending time outdoors.
When and where was the latest bear incident in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji?
The most recent bear sighting in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji was on March 17, 2026 in riverside at the Tochigi–Gunma prefectural border, Tochigi, where 2 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji?
Recent bear sightings in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji have been concentrated in Shimotsuke (3), Shimotsuke Shimonagata (2), riverside at the Tochigi–Gunma prefectural border (1). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji?
No recent activity to assess.
What type of bears are in Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji?
Shimotsuke Yakushi-ji 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.