Jun 15, 2023
In this comprehensive guide, I have curated an in-depth exploration of bears in Japan including details on bear species, their connection to Japanese culture, intriguing human encounters, and vital safety tips for bear encounters during hiking and other outdoor activities in Japan.
Table of Contents
Bears in Japanese Culture and History
Human Activity and its Impact on Bears
Safety Tips for Bear Encounters during Hiking
The Most Brutal Bear Incident in the History of Japan
Types of Bears in Japan
Bears have long been a part of Japan's natural ecosystem, particularly in mountainous areas. The two main types of bears found in Japan are the Tsukinowaguma (Asian black bear) and the Higuma (brown bear), each with its unique characteristics and behavior. According to a survey conducted by the Ministry of the Environment, approximately 55% of the Hokkaido region is inhabited by Higuma (brown bears), while approximately 45% of the mainland Honshu region is inhabited by Tsukinowaguma (Asian black bears).
(Source: https://kakutama.com/climbing-glossary-moon-bear)
Tsukinowaguma
Tsukinowaguma, also known as the Asian black bear, typically inhabits the forests and mountainous areas of Japan. The estimated population of Tsukinowaguma in Japan is around 9000-12000 individuals. These bears have an average head-body length of 110-130 centimeters, with males weighing around 80 kilograms and females around 50 kilograms. They are smaller in size compared to Higuma and are known for their distinctive crescent-shaped white markings on their chests, giving them their Japanese name, which translates to "moon-ring bear."
While they are omnivores, they mainly consume plant-based food. Unlike cattle or sheep, they lack specialized digestive organs to process dietary fiber, leading them to avoid hard and fibrous plants.
Tsukinowaguma are generally shy and non-confrontational, and their natural instinct is to avoid human encounters whenever possible. However, if they feel threatened or cornered, they may display defensive behavior. It is essential to be cautious and give them ample space to retreat.
(Okuhida Bear Park in Gifu where visitors can feed bears and even take pictures while holding cubs: https://kumabokujyo.com/)
Higuma
On the other hand, Higuma, or brown bears, are larger and more powerful. They primarily inhabit the northern regions of Japan, namely Hokkaido. The estimated population of Higuma in Japan is around 2000-3000 individuals. They measure 200-230 centimeters in head-body length and weigh approximately 150-250 kilograms. Like Asian black bears, males are larger than females. One male bear captured in Shari Town in 2002 weighed an impressive 400 kilograms. These bears hold the title of being Japan's largest land animals.
Higuma also have an omnivorous diet with a primary focus on plant-based food. However, their food preferences can vary by region and season. Since the 1990s, due to deer overpopulation, there have been significant observations of Higuma adapting and incorporating deer into their diet.
Higuma bears have a broad range and are known for their territorial nature. They can exhibit high levels of aggression, especially when defending their cubs or food sources.
Bears in Japanese Culture and History
Bears hold a special place in Japanese culture, particularly among the Ainu people of Hokkaido. The Ainu revere nature as manifestations of gods and refer to the brown bear as "Kimun-kamui," the Mountain God. They believed bears could travel between the spirit world and the human world, accompanied by their cubs. The Ainu offered captured bears as gifts to the gods, incorporating their blood and meat to gain divine power. They had customs such as consuming a bear's tongue for eloquence and wrapping bear tendons around children's hands for strength.
(In Japanese folklore, bears are sometimes depicted as a friendly companion)
Bear Symbolism in Modern Japan
In recent years, bears have also become popular symbols of cuteness, especially with the introduction of characters like Kumamon. Despite their formidable nature, bears are portrayed in a lovable and adorable way through these mascots and fictional representations. Kumamon, for example, has captured the hearts of many with its round shape, big eyes, and playful expressions. This shift in perception highlights the intriguing duality of bears, being both feared and adored, showcasing how our perspectives can be shaped and influenced by popular culture.
Human Activity and its Impact on Bears in Japan
In Japan, bears play a vital role in the country's forest ecosystem, which covers about two-thirds of the land. Their presence indicates the richness and preservation of these forests.
However, Japan also faces challenges as humans and bears coexist within the limited forested areas of the country. Over the past decade, there has been a growing issue of bears frequently entering human settlements, creating problems. This can be attributed to factors such as a scarcity of bear food, such as beech and oak acorns during poor harvests, as well as the diminishing distance between humans and bears, and a decline in hunting activities.
Bear Encounters with Humans
Bear attacks can be classified into three major categories based on their underlying causes:
Attacks for the purpose of eating humans: In some cases, bears may attack humans with the intention of consuming them as a source of food.
Attacks out of playfulness or frustration: Bears are intelligent creatures that can sometimes engage in aggressive behavior out of playfulness or frustration. These attacks are not driven by a predatory motive but rather by their natural instincts.
Attacks to eliminate humans: Bears may perceive humans as a threat to their territory or resources and may attack in an attempt to eliminate the perceived threat.
Case Study
According to research conducted by the Hokkaido Wildlife Laboratory, a study on bear behavior was conducted starting in 1970 and spanning 38 years until 2007 in Hokkaido. During this period, there were a total of 40 bear attacks involving the general public. Out of the 40 cases, 13 were fatal.
The 40 cases can be categorized as follows: 9 cases of bears attacking humans for food, 4 cases of playful attacks, and 26 cases of elimination attacks.
When bears attack for food, they target humans persistently. They may consume the prey on the spot or drag them into familiar environments like thickets or depressions. They strip clothing or cover the body but don't bury it. The desired part for consumption is the muscular tissue.
Playful or irritated attacks usually involve mentally unstable young bears aged 2 to 3 years. They approach in a zigzag manner with lowered heads, raised fur, and showing white eyes.
The most common cause of attacks aimed at eliminating humans is when bears initiate sudden attacks upon encountering them. The 26 elimination attacks further break down into 12 encounters, 6 cases of mother bears protecting their cubs, 5 cases of securing winter dens, 2 cases of obtaining food, and 1 case of securing land for dens.
Safety Tips for Bear Encounters during Hiking
Research and Awareness:
Before embarking on a hiking trip, familiarize yourself with the specific area's wildlife, including the types of bears that inhabit the region. Understand their behaviors, habitat preferences, and typical food sources. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and adjust your hiking plans accordingly.
Hike in Groups:
When hiking in bear country, it is advisable to travel in a group rather than alone. Bears are less likely to approach larger groups, as they often perceive them as more significant threats. Additionally, group members can support and assist each other in case of an encounter.
Make Noise:
Bears usually try to avoid human encounters, but surprise encounters can be dangerous. Make your presence known by making noise as you hike, especially in areas with dense vegetation or limited visibility. Clap your hands, sing, or talk loudly to alert any nearby bears of your presence, giving them time to move away.
Stay Alert and Observe Signs of Bear Activity:
While hiking, stay vigilant and watch for signs of bear activity. Look for fresh tracks, claw marks on trees, overturned rocks or logs, and areas where bears might have been foraging. If you come across these signs, be extra cautious and consider altering your route if necessary.
Proper Food Storage:
Bears are attracted to the scent of food, so it is crucial to store your food properly to avoid enticing them into your campsite. Use bear-resistant containers or hang food and scented items, such as toiletries and cooking utensils, at least 4 meters above the ground and 2 meters away from tree trunks. This practice helps prevent bears from associating humans with food sources.
Carry Bear Deterrents:
Bear deterrents can serve as valuable tools in bear encounters. Consider carrying bear spray, which is a highly effective deterrent when used correctly. Familiarize yourself with how to use it before your hike and keep it readily accessible, such as in a holster on your belt or backpack strap.
Recognize Bear Behavior:
If you spot a bear in the distance, it's essential to understand its behavior to determine the appropriate response. In general, bears will try to avoid human interaction. Give them plenty of space and never approach them. If a bear shows signs of aggression, such as huffing, growling, or approaching you, it's crucial to stay calm and prepare to use your bear deterrents.
Know How to React in an Encounter:
In the unfortunate event of a bear encounter, it's vital to know how to react. If the bear hasn't seen you, calmly and quietly move away without turning your back. If the bear has noticed you, speak in a calm and assertive voice, raise your arms to appear larger, and back away slowly. Never run, as this may trigger a chase response.
Report Bear Encounters:
After a bear encounter, it is crucial to report the incident to local wildlife authorities or park rangers. By sharing your experience, you can contribute to ongoing efforts to track and monitor bear behavior, ensuring the safety of both hikers and bears in the area.
In the event a bear charges at you, it is still possible to survive. According to the research conducted by Hokkaido Wildlife Laboratory, in all documented cases of bear attacks, the survivors fought back rather than playing dead or acting defenseless. When faced with a charging bear, it is crucial to fight back by using an axe, hatchet, or any object within reach to strike the bear anywhere on its body.
In Japan, most prefectures update bear maps on an annual or monthly basis. If you plan to go hiking in an area, it is important to check these maps for bear sightings and activity (Tokyo).
The Most Brutal Bear Incident in the History of Japan - The Fukuoka University Hiking Club Incident
On July 12, 1970, at 9 a.m., the members of the Fukuoka University Wonderfogel Club embarked on a journey from Hakata in Kyushu to Hokkaido. This expedition presented a valuable opportunity for the newly established Wonderfogel Club to achieve remarkable accomplishments and gain recognition as an official club.
Their objective was to traverse the Hidaka Mountain Range, starting from Mount Memuro (1,754m) and reaching Mount Peteguri (1,736m).
The members were:
Kazutoshi Takemasu (Leader): A 20-year-old, 3rd-year student from the Department of Economics.
Shunji Taki (Sub-leader): A 22-year-old, 3rd-year student from the Faculty of Law.
Morio Koji: A 19-year-old, 2nd-year student from the Faculty of Engineering.
Yoshiharu Nishii: A 19-year-old, 1st-year student from the Faculty of Law.
Yoshitaka Kawahara: An 18-year-old, 1st-year student from the Department of Economics.
It had been 11 grueling days since their treacherous journey through the Hidaka Mountain Range had begun. On July 25, they finally reached the halfway point of their expedition, the formidable Mount Kamui Ekuchikaushi. However, their limited experience had caused them to fall significantly behind schedule. Determined to catch up, they made the daring decision to ascend and descend Mount Kamui Ekuchikaushi, known as the highest and most challenging section of the range. Conquering this mountain was not only essential for completing their traverse but also their ultimate goal.
Their first encounter with the bear took place at Nine-no-Sawa Cirque, their campsite before the ascent. From a distance of approximately 7 meters, Takemasu, the group leader, spotted a bear observing them. At first, they didn't perceive it as a threat. However, as the bear gradually approached and began rummaging through their backpacks, devouring their food, a sense of fear began to creep in.
In a state of panic, the members attempted to retrieve their backpacks and made noise with their utensils to scare the bear away. Little did they know that these actions would soon lead them into a nightmarish ordeal.
On the evening of July 25, at 9 p.m., the bear launched a second attack. Startled awake by the bear's snorting, the exhausted members watched in horror as it created fist-sized holes in their tent before eventually retreating. Throughout the night, they endured a terrifying experience, taking turns to keep watch every two hours.
As dawn broke on July 26, they awoke to clear weather, but none of them had managed to sleep due to their lingering fear. Around 4:30 a.m., just before they were about to depart, they faced a third attack. Engaging in a desperate struggle with the bear for approximately five minutes, the members clung to the tent poles and fabric as the bear relentlessly attempted to enter. Realizing the situation was becoming untenable, the leader made a crucial decision. He ordered two members, Taki and Kawahara, to descend and seek assistance from the forestry office, requesting the aid of hunters. If they had chosen to descend together at that moment, there might have been no casualties.
The two members started their descent and encountered another mountaineering party, the "Kitahokaidake Friendship Association," at Yatsunozawa. As they also faced an attack from the bear, presumably the same one, and planned to descend, they sought assistance from the other party, who provided them with supplies such as food, gasoline, and a map they no longer needed. Armed with these provisions, they returned to their three remaining comrades.
On July 26, at 1 p.m., the two members reunited with the others on the ridge of Kamuekudake. At 3 p.m., they decided it would be safer to set up their tent on the ridge. However, their respite was short-lived as they faced a fourth attack at around 4:30 p.m. In a frantic rush to descend in the dark, the bear swiftly closed in on them from behind. The belief that bears struggle to descend slopes proved to be a complete misconception. With incredible speed and agility, they were more than capable of pursuing their prey, even on steep terrain.
The bear targeted Kawahara first, pouncing on his back.
"Damn it!"
Kawahara's cry of despair echoed through the air as he was dragged into the dense undergrowth.
Meanwhile, Koji became separated from the rest of the group during their escape and found shelter in a different location. The remaining three members called out to them repeatedly, hoping for their safety, but received no response.
In the early morning of July 27, dense fog descended, reducing visibility to less than 5 meters. Under such conditions, finding their missing comrade or noticing the approaching bear became exceedingly difficult. Despite searching for the two missing members until around 8 a.m., they ultimately made the decision to descend.
Regrettably, this decision came too late. Just as they started their descent, the bear suddenly emerged a mere few meters in front of Takemasu, who happened to be leading the way. With no time to waste, Takemasu made a split-second decision and veered off in a different direction, drawing the bear's attention away from Taki and Nishii, allowing them a chance to escape.
At approximately 1 p.m., the two survivors reached the Yatsunozawa dam construction site and immediately reported the incident. Afterwards, they made their way to the Naka-Satsunai police station situated at the foothills.
On the following day, July 28, a search and rescue team was organized to locate the missing members, only to discover the horrifying remains of the three individuals. Their clothing lay in tatters, with little left intact. One had suffered severe facial mutilation, while another had their abdominal organs forcefully expelled.
According to the autopsy report, all three deaths resulted from "exsanguination caused by cervical spine fracture and rupture of the cervical artery." The fatal injuries were concentrated in three areas: the neck, face, and groin. It was surmised that the bear attacked them from behind as they fled, causing them to fall forward and be bitten in the buttocks and anal region.
Koji, who had become separated from the group on July 26, had returned to the tent alone, leaving behind a note conveying his fear.
"On the evening of 26th, when the bear made its appearance, it stood approximately 5 meters away from me. I swiftly moved sideways and took cover under the high pine tree and crouched down, catching my breath. I couldn't see what was transpiring below from my vantage point, only hearing the sounds emanating from the bear.
Once the sounds subsided, determined to seek refuge, I cautiously descended the slope for approximately five minutes, my eyes fixed on the ground below. And there it was, just 20 meters away—an ominous bear. Its gaze locked onto me, and without hesitation, it charged forward.
Panic surged through my veins as I darted away, desperately trying to evade the relentless predator. I tumbled and rolled, fear propelling me forward. I refused to glance back, my focus solely on reaching the sanctuary of the tent ahead. With a final burst of adrenaline, I dashed inside, seeking solace and protection. But to my dismay, the tent was empty. It was a cruel realization—I was alone, trapped in a dire situation.
My heart pounded fiercely as I swiftly grabbed a sleeping bag and sought refuge within its snug confines. I took a moment to steady my breath, the silence of the tent enveloping me. Yet, a gnawing unease persisted. The rustling of the wind, the subtle whisper of grass, every sound heightened my senses, preventing me from finding respite in sleep. I yearned for the rescue team to arrive, for their presence to bring salvation to this perilous night.
The 27th of July arrived with an early morning awakening at 4:00 a.m. Curiosity beckoned me to venture outside, but the lingering dread held me captive within the tent. Surveying my surroundings, I stumbled upon a camp stove, a glimmer of hope amid the darkness. It contained a ration of food, providing some solace in this desolate place. Yet, an unsettling feeling settled upon me, as the gas above emitted an unpleasant odor.
The minutes ticked by, and it was already 5:20 a.m. The premonition of another bear encounter loomed over me, compelling me to seek shelter once again within the safety of the sleeping bag. Oh, how I longed to return to Hakata, to escape this harrowing nightmare.
At 7:00 a.m., I made the decision to descend the ravine. With a meager supply of food hastily prepared, I donned borrowed shirts and shoes found within the tent. Stepping outside, I cast my gaze upward only to spot the bear merely five meters above me. Escape seemed impossible, so I resigned myself to remain hidden within the confines of the tent.
Time passed, and the clock reached around 8:00 a.m., yet rescue seemed elusive. The indecipherable scribbles on my notes mirrored the uncertainty of our situation. Had the other team members already descended the mountain? When would help arrive?"
And then, his note abruptly ended. Koji's lifeless body was later discovered, torn apart in a gruesome scene of devastation within the confines of his tent.
On July 29, a team of ten hunters successfully tracked down and exterminated the bear that had instilled fear in the hearts of the five members. Upon examining the contents of the bear's stomach, it was revealed that it had not consumed any human flesh. It had simply tormented the group, as if engaging in a sadistic game.
Reflecting on the ordeal, three conclusions were drawn regarding what went wrong and the actions the group should have taken.
When encountering a brown bear, taking back belongings that were rummaged through is considered an act of aggression, as brown bears are highly possessive animals.
They encountered a brown bear but did not immediately descend from the mountain.
They turned their backs to the brown bear while fleeing. Brown bears have a tendency to chase after those who flee with their backs turned, much like dogs.
Today, the lifeless body of the bear is on display at the Hidaka Hiking Center, serving as a chilling reminder of our harrowing encounter.
