Location: Sapporo City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Akita Prefecture, other parts of Northern Japan
Event: Bear sightings and attacks have increased in parts of Japan, especially in municipalities close to or adjacent to populated zones. In Sapporo, authorities closed Maruyama Park in Sapporo, which is adjacent to the U.S. Consulate General, for two weeks following a bear sighting in the park.
Although the Consulate is located outside of the park, we encourage all visitors for routine or other services to be diligent and aware of your surroundings. Bears have also been spotted in other residential areas in Hokkaido and Akita prefectures. Authorities will generally close areas like parks if a bear has been sighted in the area.
Actions to take:
- Avoid the area or walking alone in areas of bear sightings.
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Report sightings to local authorities
Local resources:
The U.S. government reminds U.S. citizens to:
Enroll in the Smart Traveler-Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Assistance:
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
For information about services to U.S. citizens, please consult American Citizens Services (ACS).
For emergencies, contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate.
- U.S. Embassy Tokyo
Telephone: 03-3224-5000
- U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe
Telephone: 06-6315-5900
- U.S. Consulate Nagoya
Telephone: 052-581-4501
- U.S. Consulate Fukuoka
Telephone: 092-751-9331
- U.S. Consulate General Sapporo
Telephone: 011-641-1115
- U.S. Consulate General Naha
Telephone: 098-876-4211
- State Department – Consular Affairs
Telephone: +1 (888) 407-4747
