Bear Countermeasures at AIU (Updated June 2)

June 2, 2026
Akita International University Administration Office

I. Current Situation

1. Situation within Akita Prefecture

• Due to a series of bear sightings in residential areas since spring, the prefecture issued a “Brown Bear Sighting Alert” on April 14, which remains in effect.
• In Akita City as well, there have been a series of bear sightings in urban areas and near schools. On June 2, an incident involving a person being attacked by a bear—presumed to be a bear attack—occurred in the Kawabe-Wada district.

2. Situation at the University and Surrounding Areas

• In the vicinity of the university, a report of what appeared to be a cub was received on campus on May 28, and multiple sightings were reported in the area surrounding the campus from May 30 to June 1.

II. University Emergency Measures

Since May 28, when the first sightings were reported, the university has raised the risk level from “Normal” to “Alert” and strengthened its vigilance measures.

〇 Measures During the Alert Period

• Increase the use of bear-repelling firecrackers from twice to three times a day.
• Increase the number of locations where bear repellent is installed.

〇 Safety Guidelines for Students and Faculty/Staff

• Travel in groups whenever possible.
• Make noise while moving around using bells, whistles, or music.
• Exercise particular caution during early morning and dusk, when bears are most active.
• Do not enter the forests surrounding the campus.
• Refrain from walking alone on campus or in Prefectural Central Park near the campus.
• Refrain from unnecessary or non-urgent outings at night or in the early morning. Etc.

〇Normal Period Measures

• Operation of high-volume bear deterrent security speakers
• Use of firecrackers for repelling bears, nighttime illumination of LED animal deterrent lights, and installation of bear repellent
• Distribution of bear-deterrent bells to new students and international students
• Installation of awareness signs
• Daily patrols of trash stations to ensure thorough cleaning of their interiors (especially food waste)
• Stockpiling and maintenance of consumables and equipment such as firecrackers and bear repellent spray