Japan: Bear Incidents Spike in Northern Regions Ahead of Hibernation Season 5

Bear incidents have been increasing in northern Japan. Between April 2025 and March 2026, seven people were killed, marking the highest number of fatalities since records began in 2006. Bears become more active in the autumn before hibernation, so the Ministry of the Environment is urging people to exercise caution.

Japan: Record Rainfall Hits Akita, Rivers Overflow

Record-breaking rainfall, equivalent to a full month’s September average, has struck Akita Prefecture on Tuesday, September 2. Multiple rivers in the prefecture overflowed, and several others surpassed flood warning levels.

"Share village" project holds meeting of participants

"Share village" project holds meeting of participants

Participants of a "share village" project from around Japan attend a "villagers' meeting" at an old folk house, designated as a "village," in Gojome Town, Akita Prefecture, Japan, in June 2015. People who pay an annual fee of 3,000 yen, called "tax," can become "villagers" and enjoy country life by staying at the house. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

Organizers of "share village" project stand before old folk house

Organizers of "share village" project stand before old folk house

Organizers of a "share village" project stand in front of an old folk house, designated as a "village," in Gojome Town, Akita Prefecture, Japan, in June 2015. They are Shunsuke Ushida (L), president of a venture business who initiated the project, and Masahiro Takeda, president of a rice direct-selling company who serves as the village mayor. People who pay an annual fee of 3,000 yen, called "tax," can become the "villagers" and enjoy country life by staying at the house. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo