Bear sightings and reports of attacks are increasing across Japan
In 2025, there have been a series of reports of bear sightings and human injuries in many prefectures in Japan, particularly in Honshu. For example, some reports suggest that "human-bear conflicts are on track to be at an all-time high."
Against this backdrop, people are becoming more aware than ever of the risk of encountering large animals such as Asiatic black bears and brown bears (brown bears only live in Hokkaido) in mountainous areas and within human habitations in Japan.
But is Shikoku an exception? A mountain climbing site with zero casualties
So what about the Shikoku region? In fact, as of November 5, 2025, there have been no official reports of people being injured in a bear encounter or being killed in a bear attack in Shikoku. As far as I know, I have never heard of anyone encountering a bear.
It is true that there are said to be 16 to 24 bears living in Shikoku, but hunting and forest development up until the early 20th century caused the population to plummet. Currently, only a small number can be found in some mountainous areas of Kochi and Tokushima prefectures. A survey by the Ministry of the Environment also states that the bear habitat in Shikoku is "extremely limited."
Bear habitat status, damage situation, etc.
My Mount Tsurugi Climbing Experience (October 16th and 17th, 2025)
And indeed, I climbed Mount Tsurugi in Tokushima Prefecture over two days, October 16th and 17th, 2025. The day before the climb, I suddenly wondered, "What should I do to protect myself from bears?", but I decided to climb without any special gear. (Actually, it would be better to be prepared.)
With walking sticks and a backpack, I walked along the mountain trail to the summit. As a result, I didn't encounter any bears during my climb. I also filmed a video and have posted the climb on Setouchi Ambience
A safe environment with many climbers
As you can see in the video, there were not only Japanese climbers but also tourists from overseas climbing the mountain. (31:45 – Reaching the summit)
Also, early the next morning after I took the photos, when I left the hut and walked a little, I saw some foreign tourists waiting for the sunrise near the summit.
This fact that it is a mountain with a lot of human traffic may also be a factor in reducing the risk of encountering a bear. As a mountaineering destination where people and nature coexist, Mt. Tsurugi can be said to be a relatively safe place.
The charm of Mount Tsurugi in Shikoku, recommended for beginners
In other words, Shikoku is currently one of the safest areas to enjoy mountain climbing. Mount Tsurugi in particular is relatively easy to access, making it a mountain that even beginners can easily tackle. For example, you can get to the trailhead by mountain bus, and buses are scheduled to run until November 24th in the 2025 season, making it easy to climb using public transportation.
If you are considering mountain climbing, I recommend Mount Tsurugi in Tokushima Prefecture, Shikoku. You can enjoy your time in the mountains in a safe environment with little risk of bears.
summary
Now that bear attacks are on the rise nationwide, it's especially valuable to have a safe zone where you can say, "The chances of encountering a bear are low." Shikoku, and Mount Tsurugi, are ideal locations for beginner climbers and creators seeking natural sounds and scenery. I myself was able to complete my photography climb comfortably without having to prepare much for bear protection.
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