Bear incidents are alarming. Why are bears appearing even in city areas?
Bear sightings are no longer limited to mountains, cities have reported cases too. Possible reasons include:
- Food shortage pushing bears to expand their range.
- Warm winters ending hibernation early, extending their active period.
- Rural depopulation and aging communities reducing boundaries between humans and wildlife.
- Bears are becoming less afraid of humans, entering tourist zones and residential areas more often.
Before traveling, make sure you know these safety tips.
Check the “Bear Sightings Map” before your trip to avoid high-risk areas!
image source：クママップ
A team in Japan created Kumamap, a Bear Sightings Map available in Japanese and English, with both 2D and 3D modes. It compiles nationwide bear information so users can quickly understand local risks.
Carry a bear bell, radio, and bear spray.
It’s recommended to carry a bell or radio outdoors. The sound helps alert bears and signals “a person is coming,” encouraging them to avoid you. Playing a radio works too because bears are sensitive to certain frequencies.
Avoid going alone.
Travel with others and keep talking to reduce the chance of surprising a bear.
Stay calm if you see a bear.
❌Do NOT run, ❌shout, ❌climb trees, or ❌play dead. All are wrong. Face the bear and slowly back away to increase distance.
If a bear attacks
Hide behind an object, or lie face-down/kneel with hands protecting your neck.
image source：クマによる防御姿勢は有効か？―秋田県令和 5 年度データの解析―
Use bear spray
image source：montbell
Aim at the eyes and nose. When the bear retreats, leave immediately.
How to use it:
- Hook your finger on the ring, extend your arm forward, holding the can downward at 45–60 degrees.
- Remove the safety pin.
- Press the trigger and spray at the bear’s face and eyes for about 3 seconds.
- While the bear is affected, move to safety.
Effective spray distance
image source：montbell
Most sprays work at 5–10 meters, enhanced models can reach up to 12 meters.
Japan now offers bear spray rental services.
image source：montbell
Rental periods are 3–5 days, available online or in-store at montbell. At pickup, fill out a form, pay rental + deposit, and show ID.
| Rental Days | Price (tax included) |
| 3 days | 2,500 yen |
| 4 days | 3,000 yen |
| 5 days | 3,500 yen |
| Deposit | 12,000 yen |
If the weight decreases by more than 3g, it counts as “used” and extra fees apply.
| Other Fees | Price(tax included) |
| Cancellation after booking | 500 yen |
| Used/damaged/lost spray | 12,000 yen |
| Damaged/lost case | 2,900 yen |
| Late return | 500 yen/day |
For full details, check here.
