Japanese Soldiers Deploy to Handle Rising Bear Attacks in Akita

Tokyo, Japan – On November 5, 2025, soldiers from Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) arrived in Kazuno City, Akita prefecture, to assist with rising bear attacks in the area. With bears weighing up to 220 pounds becoming a significant threat, local authorities recognized the need for additional support.

The mountainous region of Akita is known for its beautiful forests, lakes, and valleys. However, this year, it has been at the center of a troubling increase in bear incidents, prompting action from the prefectoral government.

“The situation has already surpassed what the prefecture and municipalities can handle on their own, and exhaustion on the ground is reaching its limit,” said Akita Governor Kenta Suzuki in an Instagram post last month.

The GSDF soldiers will help transport and set up bear traps throughout the region to manage the growing threat effectively. Their deployment follows numerous reports of bear encounters, which have raised concerns among residents and local officials alike.

Officials hope this action will not only protect the public but also ensure the safety of the bears by managing their population in a controlled manner. The summer and autumn months have seen a spike in attacks, putting communities on high alert as both residents and wildlife adapt to changing environmental conditions.

As the soldiers set up the traps, they maintain a focus on ensuring public safety while recognizing the role of climate change and habitat loss in increasing bear activity.