Why bears are getting worryingly comfortable in Japan's urban areas

Why bears are getting worryingly comfortable in Japan's urban areas People in Japan have long exercised caution about bears when heading to the mountains. But nowadays, simply visiting your local high street or stepping onto your driveway could pose the same risk. Sightings and attacks are surging, and experts say the problem requires a more proactive approach.

A bear was recently spotted by multiple people in central parts of Utsunomiya City north of Tokyo taking a swim, climbing fences and wandering around. Elementary and junior high schools remained closed for three days.

But Utsunomiya is just the tip of the iceberg. Sightings have spiked in many areas, and the consequences can be tragic. NHK has found that at least 27 people in nine prefectures were attacked by bears between April 1 and June 11. The Environment Ministry says four of them died.

Experts attribute the problem to several factors, including Japan's rapidly declining population. Communities in mountainous areas are shrinking, and more land is going unmanaged. Bears see the trend as an open invitation.

Experts also say bears are becoming less fearful of humans, and learning that human settlements can be a great source of food.

Bears become more active during mating season, which typically starts in early summer. "Adult males roam wide areas searching for females, but mothers with cubs tend to avoid them," says Rakuno Gakuen University Professor Sato Yoshikazu, who specializes in bear ecology. "Sightings may increase as a result."

Researchers believe bears are entering urban areas through riverside forests and waterways. Some, evidently, end up right in the city center.

Japan's government took action last year by easing the rules on shooting wild animals, including bears in populated areas.

But Professor Sato says it may also be time to think about nipping the problem in the bud. "Towns and cities need to become more resistant to bear intrusions," he says.

Proposals from some experts include cutting back riverside vegetation and undergrowth, and physical barriers such as electric fencing.

The government is aware that more needs to be done. In March, officials compiled a roadmap to remain in place through fiscal 2030. The fundamental aim is to more effectively keep humans and bears away from each other.

Authorities will also need to gain a more accurate figure of Japan's bear populations. And they will need to secure more personnel for capture and control.

But this is not a problem that can be solved quickly. The solution will come with patient planning based on solid scientific evidence.