State Department warns Americans in Japan after deadly surge in bear attacks

The State Department is warning Americans in Japan to be careful of their surroundings amid an increase in bear sightings after 13 people were killed by bears in the country since April.

Japanese authorities closed Maruyama Park in Sapporo, adjacent to the U.S. Consulate General, for two weeks following a bear sighting in the park, a State Department alert said Wednesday.

“Bear sightings and attacks have increased in some areas of Japan, particularly in municipalities near or adjacent to populated areas,” the alert said. “Although the consulate is located outside the park, we encourage all visitors for routine services or otherwise to be diligent and aware of their surroundings.”

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A warning sign on the closed hiking trail leading to the Shirakawago District Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on October 7, 2025, in Hida, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. The State Department issued a warning to Americans Wednesday about the presence of bears in Japan. (VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

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Since April, 13 people have been killed by bears in Japan, AFP reported.

In response, Japan deployed troops to the northern Akita region on November 8 after the latest attack there.

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A hiker was found dead in August in Japan after a brown bear attacked him and dragged him into the bushes, authorities said. (iStock)

The soldiers did not carry firearms and did not harm any bears, AFP reported.

Instead, they carried bear spray, sticks, shields, goggles, body armor and net throwers to try to restore a sense of security to the area.

A poor acorn harvest led to an explosion in Japan’s bear population as they moved closer to residential areas to search for food.

A member of the Japan Self-Defense Forces stands next to military vehicles during a bear trap installation exercise in Kazuno, Akita Prefecture, Japan, November 5, 2025. (Tom Bateman/Reuters)

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Residential areas of Hokkaido and Akita have also reported bear sightings, which could lead to more park closures, the alert said.

The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo urged Americans to avoid areas where bears have been sighted and to report any sightings to authorities.