Japan’s Rising Bear Attacks Drive Surge in Demand for Deterrent Products
As bear attacks rise across Japan, demand is surging for sprays, bells, and other deterrents. Here are some of the most popular products and services available.
In recent years, bear attacks in Japan have increased, driving demand for deterrent products. Traditional bear bells, which alert bears to human presence, remain a popular choice among hikers. Stores like Sakaiya Sports in Tokyo have expanded their selection to include electronic noisemakers and repellent sprays, which contain capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers.
While bear bells are effective, urban bears are becoming less fearful of humans, making repellent sprays a necessary backup. These sprays come in various sizes and spray patterns, with some priced up to ¥20,000. The Environment Ministry has issued guidelines for bear repellent sprays, and the Consumer Affairs Agency advises proper usage.
Protective equipment, such as hats and gloves, is also being developed to shield the body during an attack. Technology, such as AI-equipped cameras and online maps, is being used to identify and share bear sighting information. Additionally, strong odors, like wolf urine and capsaicin, are being used to deter bears. Prevention efforts also include managing food and garbage to avoid attracting bears, with some communities using Bear Smart Boxes to keep bears away from trash.
However, no single tool can provide complete protection, and understanding the limitations of each device is crucial for avoiding bear encounters.
Written by urgent.news from Nippon.com's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
