Spanish Tourist Injured in Bear Attack in Japan’s Shirakawa-go

A Spanish tourist was injured in a bear attack on Sunday, October 6, 2023, in Shirakawa-go, a village in Japan known for its traditional thatched-roof houses and status as a UN World Heritage site. The 44-year-old man was attacked from behind while walking to a bus stop. Local official Kazunari Takashima confirmed the incident, which follows a recent spate of bear attacks in the region.

The tourist sustained a scratch on his right arm during the encounter. After the attack, he managed to reach a nearby tourist information office where he requested medical assistance. He was treated at a local hospital and discharged the same day, according to Takashima.

Recent Surge in Bear Encounters

Authorities have noted a significant increase in bear sightings across Japan in recent years, including in residential areas. Contributing factors include a declining human population and the effects of climate change. Following the attack, officials closed several trails in the area and increased patrols to ensure visitor safety. Takashima emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, stating, “We urge people not to take photos in off-limit areas. It’s dangerous.”

This incident is particularly alarming in light of another recent bear attack in northern Japan, where a woman lost her life, and another person remains missing. According to public broadcaster NHK, there were 69 reported injuries from bear encounters between April and August 2023, with five resulting in fatalities.

Government Response and Safety Measures

In response to the rising number of attacks, Japan has recently relaxed gun regulations to facilitate hunting in urban areas. The government reported that in the year ending March 2025, bears attacked a total of 85 people, leading to three deaths. Comparatively, in the previous year, there were 219 attacks and six fatalities.

Local officials are urging both residents and tourists to exercise caution as they navigate these increasingly dangerous encounters with wildlife. As bear populations expand into human-inhabited areas, the need for awareness and safety measures becomes increasingly critical.