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Bear Attacks Surge in Japan: 196 Victims Reported

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Bear attacks in Japan surged in 2025, with 196 victims from April to October, the highest in five years, according to the Environment Ministry.
October alone recorded 88 victims, up from 39 in September.
Akita prefecture reported the most incidents, followed by Iwate and Fukushima, and Sophia University researchers developed the Bear Encounter AI Prediction Map to assess risk, with the government expanding measures to hire licensed hunters.

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Story summary

Bear attacks in Japan surged in 2025, with 196 victims from April to October, the highest in five years, according to the Environment Ministry.
October alone recorded 88 victims, up from 39 in September.
Akita prefecture reported the most incidents, followed by Iwate and Fukushima, and Sophia University researchers developed the Bear Encounter AI Prediction Map to assess risk, with the government expanding measures to hire licensed hunters.