Bear Sightings Continue Across Utsunomiya as Schools Remain Closed

Jun 09, 2026 | News On Japan

TOCHIGI, Jun 09, 2026 - A state of heightened alert remained in place in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, on June 9th after a series of bear sightings continued across the city, with authorities warning that as many as two bears may be moving through residential neighborhoods. All 94 municipal elementary and junior high schools remained closed for a second day as officials searched for the animals.

More than 60 bear sightings have been reported across Utsunomiya since June 6th, and bears were spotted at five separate locations in the city from the early hours of June 9th.

Footage recorded at around 4 a.m. in the Joto district showed a bear crossing the parking lot of a store before disappearing from view.

According to police, the latest sighting occurred at around 6 a.m. in a residential area of Hiramatsuhoncho, where a bear measuring about one meter in length was seen. A separate witness also reported seeing a smaller bear nearby.

Police said the reports suggest there may be two bears roaming urban areas of the city.

Residents in affected neighborhoods remain on alert. In Hiramatsuhoncho, some homeowners were seen keeping their window shutters tightly closed as a precaution amid concerns that the animals could still be nearby.

The whereabouts of the bears remain unknown, and authorities are continuing search and patrol operations while urging residents to exercise caution.

Previously: Bear Spotted Running Through Central Utsunomiya Shopping District

Source: TBS

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