Japan's Deadly Bear Crisis: Record Fatalities in 2026

Japan has confirmed the first fatal bear attack of 2026, following a record 13 deaths in the previous year. This grim milestone comes as bear sightings surge again, with animals emerging hungry from hibernation.

Last year saw alarming encounters, including at hot spring resorts and supermarkets, prompting government intervention with troops deployed for hunting and trapping. The environment ministry reported the first 2026 fatality on April 21 in Iwate prefecture. Two more sets of human remains were found this week in Iwate and Yamagata prefectures, with media reports linking them to bear attacks.

Experts cite a combination of factors for the escalating crisis. Fast-growing bear populations, now estimated at around 12,000 brown bears and 42,000 Asian black bears, are expanding their range into human-inhabited areas due to rural depopulation. A warming climate also contributes to an abundance of food, further supporting bear thriving. Poor harvests in 2025 specifically pushed bears to seek food in towns and villages.

While forecasts for nut harvests are better this year, the early emergence from hibernation and continued sightings, particularly in Miyagi, Akita, and Fukushima prefectures, indicate a persistent threat. Bear experts stress the need for vigilance, especially in the northern Tohoku region, noting that incidents have occurred close to settlements and bodies have been severely damaged, suggesting predation.