The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi is an isolated pilgrimage route in the Kii Peninsula which connects small villages and sacred sites scattered across the mountains. There are certain creatures to be aware of including poisonous snakes, giant wasps, and very rarely bears. You can see a complete list on the following page.
Bears in the Media
In the fall of 2025, there has been much international media coverage of bear attacks in Japan which have caused many guests to ask questions about bear encounters on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route.
The media coverage of bear attacks may make it seem like the whole country of Japan is under a bear siege, but what is often not included in the news is the specific areas and circumstances of these encounters. Almost entirely the attacks are on single people in northern Japan, very far from the Kumano Kodo and very different context.
There are many social media posts about bears, but many of these are misinformation. So please only refer to official sites for up-to-date quality information.
Types of Bears in Japan
There are two species of bears in Japan. In the isolated mountains of the Kii Peninsula lives a small population of black bear called the Asiatic Bear or “Tuskinowaguma” (Ursus thibetanus japonicus). Tsuginowaguma means “moon circle bear” because of the distinctive white crescent marking on their chest.
The other species is the larger Ussuri brown bear or “Higuma” (Ursus arctos yesoensis), which is exclusively found in the northern island of Hokkaido.
Bears on the Nakahechi
There have been no incidents reported along the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route at this time. Historically encounters with bears in this region have been with people deep in the mountains gathering wild vegetables or mushrooms who have been so focused on collecting that they fail to be aware of their surroundings.
Is it a bear?
Many “sightings” have not been of bears, but rather wild monkeys, wild boars or deer. For people not used to seeing wild monkeys, their quick movements and brown fur can seem like a bear.
Signage
Local governments in Japan are very cautious and conservative, so often are overly active regarding signage, etc. which can be misleading to first time visitors.
Bear Safety
Easy tips to stay bear safe:
● Walk in groups (bear attacks happen mostly to people who are alone)
● Be aware of your surroundings (watch where you are going, especially near running water where your sound can be muffled)
● Make noise, such as talking or clapping (the human voice is the best sound, bear bells are often not the most effective bear deterrent)
● Walk during the day (make sure that you arrive at your destination early, before dark, bears are more active at dusk)
● Carry out all food stuffs and garbage (discarded food waste and garbage can attract bears)
● Do not wear ear buds or headphones (you need to hear to be aware of your surroundings)
If by small chance you see a bear:
● Do not panic (try to appear non-threatening)
● Group together with your walking partners
● Speak in a calm voice (to let the bear know that you are human)
● Avoid direct eye contact, but keep watch on the bear
● Do not move suddenly
● Back away slowly without turning your back
If by even a smaller chance that the bear does attack:
● Lie on the ground with your face down and protect your head and neck
Bear Sightings
If you do see a bear, please remember the area and report it to local authorities.