JR Central has revealed that bear-train collision incidents this year have increased more than fourfold compared to last year.

According to JR Central, there have been 21 collisions between bears and conventional railway lines as of November 13th.

The annual statistics show: 5 incidents in fiscal year 2024, 16 in 2023, 7 in 2022, and 5 in 2021, making this year the highest in the past five years.

Most collisions occur in mountainous areas such as the Takayama Line and Chuo Line, with no human casualties reported so far.

Following collision incidents, trains typically travel approximately 1 kilometer before conducting vehicle inspections to ensure crew safety.

In areas with previous bear sightings, workers carry bear bells and spray, set off firecrackers before beginning work, and are testing the effectiveness of repellents sprayed near railway tracks.

Takayama Line

The Takayama Line is a scenic railway route in Japan’s Gifu Prefecture, connecting Gifu City to Toyama. Opened in stages between 1928 and 1934, it was a vital transportation link through the mountainous Hida region, facilitating travel and trade. Today, it is famous for its beautiful views of the Japanese Alps and provides access to the historic city of Takayama.

Chuo Line

The Chuo Line is a major railway line in Tokyo, Japan, operated by JR East, connecting Tokyo Station with the western suburbs and cities like Shinjuku and Tachikawa. Historically, it was one of the first railway lines in Japan, with its initial section opening in 1889, and it played a vital role in the development and urbanization of western Tokyo.