Utsunomiya Closes Schools Amid Bear Sightings in Japan

Utsunomiya, a city in Japan located north of Tokyo, has closed 94 public primary and junior high schools following nearly 10 reports of a bear sighting over the weekend. The sightings prompted local officials to advise residents to stay indoors.

The bear was first spotted on Saturday morning, described as around three feet long, and subsequent sightings occurred in various locations, including a shopping arcade and near schools. Local authorities have deployed dozens of hunters and police to search for the bear.

Japan has experienced an increase in bear sightings and attacks in urban areas, with a record 13 people killed by bears last year. This rise is attributed to bears emerging from hibernation and seeking food.

The Utsunomiya region has a population of approximately 510,000 residents, and the situation remains critical as officials continue to monitor the area for further bear activity.