Chinese Embassy Warns Nationals of Bear Attacks in Japan

The Chinese Embassy in Japan on Friday urged Chinese nationals to stay alert after a surge in bear encounters across the country.

The warning came as bears have killed 13 people since April 1 – more than double Japan's previous annual record.

Japanese media reported that bear attacks have occurred not only in mountainous areas but also near residential neighborhoods this year.

Wild boars have also been spotted in urban regions, including Tokyo and Chiba Prefecture.

The embassy advised Chinese residents and travelers to closely follow local wildlife alerts, remain cautious in forested areas, and prioritize personal safety.

Japan's National Police Agency announced plans to ease its strict gun control rules, allowing riot police to use rifles against bears that pose a threat to public safety, according to AFP.

The revision came after media reports said handguns issued to regular Japanese police are of limited use against bears because the weapons are not powerful enough to kill them.

The new regulation, set to take effect on November 13, will deploy rifle-equipped teams to Iwate and Akita, two of the hardest-hit northern prefectures.

Researchers say bear sightings and attacks have surged due to warmer weather and rural depopulation, which have blurred the boundaries between forests and human settlements.

Some schools in Yamagata, Akita, and Iwate have even suspended classes after bear sightings nearby, according to Jiefang Daily.