Bear attacks in Japan hit record highs: Safety tips for hikers

Japan is grappling with an unprecedented surge in bear attacks. Since the start of May, several fatal incidents have been reported, and the numbers for the 2025 fiscal year are alarming: 238 people have been attacked, with 13 deaths—the highest toll ever recorded in the country. One of the most shocking cases involved a Russian national attacked on the western outskirts of Tokyo, an area where such encounters were once unthinkable. Days later, a body was found in the same region, killed by a bear.

Sergey Obrachev, a representative from a Japanese travel agency, says the risk is real but manageable. He advises tourists to avoid hiking alone—most victims were solo trekkers. Stick to marked trails, and only climb during daylight. Many locals attach small bells to their backpacks to scare off bears, but Obrachev stresses that staying on the path and in a group matters more. "If you can, just skip the mountains for now," he warns. "But if you go, don't wander off."

Historically, bear attacks were confined to remote areas in northern Honshu, but recent incidents near Tokyo suggest the animals are moving closer to populated zones. For travelers planning a trip, the message is simple: be cautious, be prepared, and never hike alone.