In a rare city centre encounter, a bear was spotted and consequently shot at, sparking safety concerns among the locals. Occurring within urban environments, such unexpected wildlife confrontations have raised discussions on the need for increased measures to limit such encounters and ensure citizenry safety. Authorities are now grappling with the dilemma of human-animal conflict mitigation and are exploring potential solutions.

In Japan, sightings of bears and other wildlife in inhabited areas are relatively rare but not unheard of. However, when they occur, they raise serious safety concerns among the public and invoke a sense of urgency among the authorities. Japan values a harmonious coexistence with nature, which is embedded in their culture. Therefore, issues of wildlife venturing into human spaces evoke strong debate about safety, the environment, and the effects of urbanization.

In contrast to the US and EU where wildlife sighting in populated areas may be more common due to larger land mass and expansive forests, Japan's predicament is unique due to its high population density and smaller geographical size. Also, while the US may opt for trapping and relocation, and the EU leaning more toward cohabitation solutions, Japan might consider a blend of these approaches adapted to their context.