Cities & Towns · Yamanashi
Koshu Black Bear Incidents
Bear incident and sighting reports for Koshu, compiled from official government sources, news outlets, and community submissions. View the interactive incident map and safety information before hiking or outdoor activities.
Koshu saw its most recent black bear activity on November 15, 2025, when a person walking a dog spotted 1 bear in a field in Shioyama Mikkaichiba, about 200 meters west of Enzan High School. That same area has stayed active, with bear scat also reported in Mikkaichiba on November 12 and a trap set nearby afterward.
Most of the activity has been centered in Koshu City, especially around Enzan and Yamatocho, and the pace has picked up in November 2025 with 5 reports, after 2 in October 2025 and 1 each in September 2025, August 2025, and July 2025. Across Koshu, there have been 35 black bear sightings overall, so this is a small but persistent run of reports rather than a one off event.
Koshu Bear Incident Map
No incidents in this time range
No incidents in this time range
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Four reports in just four days from Mikkaichiba alone.
Hiking in bear country
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bears in Koshu
How many bear incidents have been recorded in Koshu?
Koshu has 35 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 Koshu?
The most recent bear sighting in Koshu was on November 15, 2025 in Enzan High School, Yamanashi, where 1 Black Bear was reported. Detailed location and surrounding incidents are available on the incident map.
Where have bears appeared recently in Koshu?
Recent bear sightings in Koshu have been concentrated in Koshu Enzan-Kamihagihara (4), Koshu Yamatocho-Hikage (3), Koshu City (2). These areas have had multiple reports within the last 30 days.
Is bear activity increasing in Koshu?
No recent activity to assess.
What type of bears are in Koshu?
Koshu 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.