Schools in a Tokyo suburb will receive bear sprays amid a rise in bear attacks.
Japan recorded 13 bear-related deaths last fiscal year, a record high. Between April 1 and May 30 this year, five more people died and 20 were injured.
Schools in the Tokyo suburb of Hachioji plan to equip themselves with bear sprays in response.
Local authorities aim to strengthen safety measures for students and children.
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Bear encounters are increasing across Japan, prompting manufacturers to develop new deterrents and officials to highlight safety concerns in a recent white paper.
Following record bear sightings in 2025 and unusual winter activity, Japan's Tohoku municipalities are issuing spring warnings as bears emerge from hibernation, urging residents not to leave food or garbage outside.
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A bear sighted near schools and residential areas in Utsunomiya was captured following a dayslong hunt.
Two students aged 14 and 15 opened fire at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City on June 22, killing three classmates and wounding at least 20 others. Police said the attack was planned.
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A government survey shows that 84,759 students at public schools in Japan required support for learning Japanese as of May 2025.