Increasing Bear Sightings Raise Concerns About Potential Urban Presence in Tokyo – Can Zero Damage Be Achieved? (Published September 15th,2025) | YTV NEWS NNN
Tokyo,Japan – A recent surge in bear activity across Japan has prompted concerns about the potential for encounters within the 23 wards of Tokyo. According to the Ministry of the Surroundings,69 people sustained injuries from bear encounters between april and the end of August of this year,tragically including five fatalities. Experts warn that bear appearances in urban and suburban areas are likely to increase this fall, necessitating heightened public awareness and preventative measures.
The growing proximity of bears to human populations isn’t simply a matter of increased bear numbers, explains Oi Toru, a specially appointed professor at Ishikawa Prefectural University and an expert in bear ecology. “The number of bears has increased, and their habitat has expanded, leading to more frequent interactions wiht humans,” Professor Oi stated in a recent interview with YTV’s “Saturday LIVE News Zigzag.”
Historically, bear habitat loss due to forest growth in the 1950s and 70s forced bears into closer contact with human settlements. However, Professor Oi emphasizes that the current situation is different. “Rather than being driven from the mountains, bears are now expanding their range from deep within the mountains to the outskirts of urban areas. This expansion is fueled by increased food availability – both natural resources and crops grown by humans – creating a viable base for population growth.”
Research conducted by professor Oi indicates that while most bears remain within 100 meters of forested areas, individuals have been observed as far as 10-20 kilometers from the forest edge. This raises the possibility of bears utilizing waterways as travel corridors into the city.
“It is possible that bears will flow out of their habitat and then come out of the river that flows into the city as a travel route,” Professor Oi explained. “Such as, the Tama River. bears appear near the mountains of Hachioji. Originally, they only existed in Oku-Chichibu, but the distribution of bears is gradually spreading towards the city center. It cannot be denied that these bears may suddenly appear along the Tama River and in the 23 wards.”
Adding to the concern is a noticeable trend: bears are becoming increasingly habituated to human presence. “Not all bears are used to it,” Professor Oi clarified, “Though, there are more and more bears who are used to it and not afraid of people. I think 99% of bears are defensive rather than aggressive.” This reduced fear, while not indicative of aggression, increases the likelihood of encounters and potential conflict.
The question remains: how can Japan strive for zero bear-related damage in urban areas? Further research into bear movement patterns, coupled with robust public education campaigns on bear safety and responsible waste management, are crucial first steps. YTV NEWS NNN will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
