Popular Hokkaido Trail Stays Closed After Bear Attack

Sep 12, 2025 | News On Japan

HOKKAIDO, Sep 12, 2025 (News On Japan) - A male hiker was killed in a brown bear attack on Mount Rausu on August 14, and authorities now expect the mountain’s main trail to remain closed until 2026 on the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido.

As the incident nears the one-month mark, flowers are still being placed at the site, reporter Yuya Kawase said. The trail has remained shut since the fatality in August. “It’s unfortunate, but necessary. While I’m in Shiretoko I’ll look for other things to do,” said a tourist from the United States.

The victim, a 26-year-old man descending the route in August, was attacked and died. On September 11, Shari Town and the Ministry of the Environment held a press conference and said they will conduct a full review of the accident.

Although bear sightings along the trail were frequent in August, patrols did not identify animals posing imminent danger. As a result, the call to hikers remained at the level of “strong caution.” The fatal attack occurred the following day.

The trail will stay closed until the investigation is compiled and concluded, with reopening expected in 2026.

Source: 北海道ニュースUHB

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