Body Found Near Sengen Pass in Okutama: Possible Bear Attack and Latest Trail Conditions in the Nippara Area

What Happened Near Sengen Pass

On May 19, 2026, a body without its upper half was discovered on a hiking trail near Sengen Pass in Okutama. A bear attack has been suggested as a possible cause, and numerous large animal footprints have been confirmed in the surrounding area. Police and relevant agencies are investigating the scene, and details have not yet been fully disclosed.

As news spread, searches related to the Nippara area of Okutama surged. Many residents of Okutama and surrounding areas have voiced concerns and are seeking safety information.

Trail Closure Status

At this time, some hiking trails around Sengen Pass may be subject to closure or requests to refrain from entry. Please be sure to check for the latest information before heading out.

• Trail restriction information is available on the Okutama Town official website
• The Tokyo Metropolitan Natural Park Usage Rules page may also be updated
• The Okutama Visitor Center (in front of Okutama Station) can also provide the latest trail conditions

The Okutama Visitor Center can be reached by phone for the latest trail conditions. Those planning a hike are encouraged to call before setting out.

Basic Bear Safety Measures

The Okutama area is habitat for Asiatic black bears. Not just around Sengen Pass — precautions are needed whenever hiking in the Okutama mountains.

• Bear bells and radios: Making noise to announce your presence is the basic approach
• Avoid hiking alone; travel in groups
• It is advisable to avoid entering the mountains before dawn or after dusk
• Store garbage and food in sealed containers to minimize odors
• If you encounter a bear, do not turn your back — slowly back away

Tokyo publishes annual bear sighting information.

Access to the Nippara Area and Precautions

The most common route to the Nippara area is to take a Nishi-Tokyo Bus from JR Okutama Station and get off at the "Higashi-Nippara" bus stop. While there are tourist attractions such as Nippara Limestone Cave, caution is currently advised for entering the surrounding mountain areas.

• Bus: Nishi-Tokyo Bus, Okutama Station to Higashi-Nippara, approximately 30–40 minutes
• The Nippara Forest Road may have seasonal traffic restrictions
• For the latest timetables, please check the Nishi-Tokyo Bus official website

Follow-up and Information Sources

This case is still under investigation, and updates are expected to continue. It is recommended to check official announcements from Okutama Town and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government regularly.

Here is a list of official channels useful for staying informed.

• Okutama Town official website
• Tokyo Metropolitan Environmental Bureau — Bear and Wildlife Information
• Okutama Tourism Association

The mountains of Okutama are a familiar part of nature for those of us living in the Tama area. Let's head into the mountains with the latest information in hand, so we can enjoy them safely.