Photo: A screenshot of the safety alert on Chinese Embassy in Japan

Following a rise in wildlife attack incidents across Japan, including fatal bear attacks and wild boar sightings near major cities, the Chinese Embassy in Japan issued an alert on Friday urging Chinese nationals to remain vigilant.

According to Japanese media, at least 12 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in bear attacks this year, with incidents occurring not only in mountain forests but also in residential areas. Wild boars have also appeared in urban districts of Tokyo and Chiba, according to the embassy. 

The embassy advised travelers to check local government websites and social media for wildlife warnings, avoid high-risk areas marked with "Beware of Bears" signs, and refrain from hiking alone, especially at dawn or dusk. It also recommended carrying bear deterrents such as sprays or bells and avoiding leaving food waste that could attract animals.

If signs of bear activity are detected, individuals should leave the area immediately. In case of a direct encounter, remain calm, face the bear, and back away slowly—running or screaming could trigger an attack.

The embassy reminded that in an emergency, people should contact local police or reach out to the Chinese Embassy or Consulates in Japan, or call the Foreign Ministry's global consular emergency hotline for assistance.

Japan's National Police Agency on Thursday amended its rules to allow police officers to use rifles to kill bears, in response to a recent surge in bear attacks on humans. In Iwate and Akita prefectures, where the highest number of bear attacks have been reported, police firearms task forces from other prefectures will conduct joint training with local hunting associations and others to gain a better understanding of bear habits and their vulnerabilities, according to Kyodo News.