News Black Bear Near the archery field in Shonai Airport green area (Hamanaka, Sakata City), Yamagata Jan 12, 2026, 09:45 AM

Description

At around 09:45 on January 12, 2026, a single juvenile bear about 50–60 cm long was sighted near the archery field in the Shonai Airport green area in Hamanaka, Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture, and reported to the city. The city and police conducted patrols but the bear's whereabouts remain unknown; the city has warned local residents to be cautious.

Note: Official sources provide information in Japanese only. This description has been machine translated for your convenience.

Summary

On the morning of the 12th a juvenile bear about 50–60 cm long was spotted in the green area near Shonai Airport in Sakata City. The city and police patrolled the area but did not locate the animal, and residents were urged to stay cautious and not approach if they see it.

Bear Type

Black Bear

Number of Bears

1

Provider Type

News

Date & Time

Monday, January 12, 2026 at 09:45 AM

Address

Coordinates

38.812619, 139.801621

Sources