The State Department is warning Americans in Japan to be aware of their surroundings amid an increase in bear sightings after 13 people have been killed by bears in the country since April.
Japanese officials have closed Maruyama Park in Sapporo, which is adjacent to the U.S. Consulate General, for two weeks after a bear sighting in the park, a Foreign Ministry alert said Wednesday.
“Bear sightings and attacks have increased in parts of Japan, especially in municipalities near or adjacent to populated areas,” the alert said. “Although the consulate is located outside the park, we encourage all visitors on routine or other services to be diligent and aware of your surroundings.”
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A warning sign at the closed walkway to the observatory in Shirakawago Ward, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, October 7, 2025, in Hida, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. The State Department warned Americans on Wednesday about bear sightings in Japan. (VCG/VCG via Getty Images)
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Thirteen people have been killed by bears in Japan since April, AFP reported.
In response, Japan sent troops to the northern Akita region on November 8, following the most recent attack there.
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A hiker was found dead in Japan in August after a brown bear attacked him and dragged him into bushes, authorities said. (iStock)
The troops carried no firearms and did not harm any bears, AFP reported.
Instead, they carried bear sprays, sticks, shields, goggles, bulletproof jackets and net throwers in an effort to restore a sense of safety to the area.
A poor acorn harvest resulted in a boom in the Japanese bear population as they moved closer to residential areas in search of food.
A member of the Japan Self-Defense Forces stands next to military vehicles during a bear trap setting exercise in Kazuno, Akita Prefecture, Japan, November 5, 2025. (Tom Bateman/Reuters)
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Residential areas in Hokkaido and Akita have also reported bear sightings, which could lead to more park closures, the alert said.
The US Embassy in Tokyo has urged Americans to avoid areas where bears have been spotted and to report sightings to authorities.
