The bear was spotted on a municipal road approximately 800 meters west of the “Minami-no-Sawa 5th Bridge” in Sapporo’s Minami Ward.

Around 3:30 PM on the 20th, a woman driving on the road contacted the police, stating, “I saw what looked like a bear crossing the road while I was driving.”

The woman reported that around 3:00 PM, while driving from the Shirakawa direction toward Minamisawa, she witnessed a bear about 1 meter in length crossing the road from right to left.

Police searched the area where the bear was sighted but found no traces of the animal.

The location is about 200 meters away from residential homes, and authorities have increased patrols in the area as a precaution.

Minami Police Station

Minami Police Station is a local law enforcement facility located in the Minami district of various Japanese cities, such as Osaka or Fukuoka. These stations typically serve as community hubs for public safety, crime prevention, and emergency response. While specific historical details may vary by location, such stations have played a role in maintaining order since their establishment, often reflecting Japan’s centralized policing system developed during the Meiji era (late 19th century).

Minamisawa

Minamisawa is a residential district located in the city of Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan. Historically part of the larger Hachioji area, which was known for its silk production and as a post town during the Edo period, Minamisawa is now primarily a suburban neighborhood with easy access to central Tokyo. The area is also home to parts of the Tokyo Metropolitan University campus, contributing to its quiet, academic atmosphere.

Minami-no-Sawa 5th Bridge

The **Minami-no-Sawa 5th Bridge** is a historic bridge located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its picturesque setting and early 20th-century construction. Built during the development of Hokkaido’s railway system, it reflects the region’s industrial expansion and engineering of the era. Today, it is appreciated for its rustic charm and connection to Japan’s railway heritage.

Shirakawa

Shirakawa is a historic village located in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, famous for its traditional *gassho-zukuri* farmhouses, some of which are over 250 years old. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the village showcases unique architectural styles with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Today, Shirakawa preserves its cultural heritage while attracting visitors with its picturesque scenery and seasonal festivals.