1. Types of castles and bear risk level

Not all castles have the same level of bear risk. As a simple guide, you can think of three types:

• Mountain castles (yamajiro)
  Located in forested mountains with narrow trails, steep slopes and few people. These areas are part of the natural habitat of bears. Please treat them as “bear country”.
• Hilltop castles
  Castles on small hills or ridges near a town. Bears may appear if nearby mountains are their habitat, but the risk is usually lower than at true mountain castles.
• Urban / park castles
  Castles surrounded by houses, roads and city parks. Bear sightings are rare, but in recent years there have been occasional cases even near towns, so it is still wise to check local information.

2. Check bear information before your visit

Before you visit a castle, especially a mountain castle, check the latest bear information for the area. Many prefectures and cities publish maps or notices of recent bear sightings.

• Look for “bear sighting information” on the website of the local city office or prefectural government.
• If the castle is inside a national or prefectural park, also check the park’s official website or visitor center.
• If there have been frequent or recent bear sightings on the access route, consider changing your plan or choosing another castle.

You can also use our dedicated map that collects bear-related links around the 100 Famous Japanese Castles and Continued 100 Castles: Bear Information Around Japanese Castles (Japanese map) .

3. What to bring for safer castle visits

For mountain castles and forested areas, it is a good idea to carry:

• Bear bells – Small bells attached to your backpack to make sound while walking.
• Whistle – Useful for making loud noise or calling for help.
• Headlamp or flashlight – Avoid walking in the dark. If you are delayed, light is essential.
• Mobile phone with full battery – So you can call for help or check maps.
• Rain jacket and warm clothing – Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• Small first-aid kit – For minor injuries on steep trails.

In some areas people also carry bear spray. If you choose to carry it, please learn how to use it safely in advance and follow all airline and transportation rules.

4. How to walk safely in bear country

When you walk to a mountain castle, try to behave in a way that avoids surprising a bear:

• Do not walk silently. Talk with your group, clap, or let your bear bell ring.
• Avoid walking alone early in the morning or late in the evening, when animals are more active.
• Stay on the main trail. Do not take short cuts through thick bushes.
• Do not leave food or rubbish on the mountain. Take everything back with you.
• If you see footprints, fresh scat, claw marks on trees, or other clear signs of bears, turn back calmly.

5. If you encounter a bear

Encounters are still rare for most visitors, but it is good to know the basic ideas:

• Stay calm. Do not run. Sudden movement may make the bear chase you.
• Speak in a low, calm voice and slowly move away while facing the bear.
• Give the bear a clear escape route. Do not block its way.
• Never approach a cub. The mother bear may be very defensive.
• If the bear does not move away or behaves aggressively, follow the local guidance for that region and contact the authorities as soon as it is safe.

Detailed instructions differ by region and bear species, so please always follow the advice of local governments and park rangers.

6. When you can relax a little

Many famous castles in Japan are located in urban areas or well-maintained parks. In these places, the chance of meeting a bear is very low. However, in recent years there have been occasional reports of bears coming close to towns, especially in years with poor acorn crops.

Even for city castles, it is wise to:

• Check the latest local news or notices at the castle gate.
• Avoid entering closed forest areas or ignoring warning signs.
• Use common sense and follow the instructions of local staff.

7. Enjoy Japanese castles safely

Japanese castles offer beautiful views of towns, rivers and mountains, and many mountain castles still keep the feeling of old battlefields and hidden fortresses. With a little preparation and respect for nature, you can enjoy these places safely.

Before you climb, check the weather, your route and the latest bear information. Pack what you need, give yourself enough time to go up and down, and enjoy your castle journey with peace of mind.