Bear Attacks in Japan Spark Unique Police Drills with Costumed Simulations

In a series of unusual yet alarming events, towns across Japan have been grappling with a surge in bear attacks, leading local authorities to take some rather creative measures. Last month, in Nasushiobara City, a man in his 70s found himself on the wrong side of a nearly five-foot bear near an elementary school. The bear left him with injuries to his neck and head, though thankfully, they weren’t life-threatening.

Not far off, in Morioka City, an 81-year-old man also faced a bear’s wrath, sustaining head injuries in a similar encounter. Meanwhile, over in Aibetsu, Hokkaido, a school had to cancel outdoor classes after spotting what looked like bear footprints in the yard. It’s safe to say, the bears are making their presence felt.

In response, police in Tochigi Prefecture have teamed up with a local hunters’ club to stage bear drills—yes, you read that right. Picture this: a man in a bear costume charging at officers equipped with shields and helmets, simulating a real attack. It’s part training, part theater, and entirely necessary, given the circumstances. These drills also include medical response training to ensure everyone’s prepared for the real thing.

For those venturing into bear territory, a few tips from experts remind us to stay calm, speak softly to identify yourself as human, and avoid sudden movements. Don’t run, don’t climb a tree, and for heaven’s sake, don’t let the bear get to your picnic basket. If you can, leave the area or give the bear a clear escape route. Curiosity might not kill the bear, but it could certainly startle a human.

These incidents are a stark reminder of the delicate balance between human expansion and wildlife habitats. As towns grow closer to nature, encounters like these may become more common. For now, Japan’s bear drills are a proactive step—and perhaps a slightly amusing one—to keep communities safe.