U.S. Issues Warning for This Popular Region in Japan-What to Know

"The United States Embassy and Consulates in Japan published an advisory this week for travelers to northern Japan following a surge of bear sightings and attacks. The warning includes the popular winter destination of Sapporo in Hokkaido. "Bear sightings and attacks have increased in parts of Japan, especially in municipalities close to or adjacent to populated zones," the advisory detailed, adding "authorities will generally close areas like parks if a bear has been sighted in the area.""

"Since April, bear encounters have resulted in more than 100 injuries and 12 deaths, according to Reuters. Two-thirds of those occurred in the Akita and Iwate prefectures. Some tourism operators have started to limit the sale of tickets in response, according to NHK World-Japan, like one cable car company that ceased selling one-way tickets up into the mountains to protect hikers."

"In Japan, Reuters reported travelers may find a combination of Japanese black bears, which can weigh up to 287 pounds; and brown bears on the island of Hokkaido, which can weigh more than 800 pounds. Overall, if a traveler does encounter a black bear, they should try to escape to a secure place (but not up a tree because black bears are good climbers) or if escape isn't possible, try to fight back using any object available, according to the National Park Service (NPS)."

Bear sightings and attacks have increased in parts of northern Japan, including Sapporo in Hokkaido, prompting the U.S. Embassy and consulates to issue a travel advisory. Parks and other areas may be closed after sightings; Maruyama Park was closed for two weeks following a sighting. Since April, more than 100 injuries and 12 deaths have occurred, with two-thirds in Akita and Iwate prefectures. Some tourism operators have limited ticket sales or restricted access to mountain areas. Increased sightings have been linked to poor growing conditions, food shortages, and unmanaged farmland near forests. Travelers are advised to avoid bear-prone areas, walk in groups, and report sightings.

Read at Travel + Leisure