A bear sighting on the runway of Yamagata Airport in Japan caused a brief shutdown of operations on Thursday morning, 26 June 2025.
Bear invades Yamagata Airport, forces airport closure
The animal, estimated to be around 1.2 metres in length, was seen running across the airstrip at approximately 07:00 (midnight the next day in SAST), prompting immediate action from airport staff and safety officials.
To protect passengers and crew, the airport was temporarily closed, resulting in disruptions to more than 10 scheduled flights.
Two of those flights were delayed by about 30 minutes. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the bear has not been located since the incident.
Authorities believe the bear likely wandered onto the airport premises from nearby forested areas. Residents in the surrounding region have been urged to stay vigilant.
Experts attribute this kind of unusual bear behaviour to changing environmental patterns.
According to reports, scientists have pointed to climate change as a key reason bears are increasingly active outside their usual habitats. Warmer winters have been disrupting hibernation cycles, while declining food sources in the wild are driving the animals into populated areas.
Additionally, rural depopulation — a trend where fewer people live in countryside regions due to an ageing population — is also believed to be a contributing factor, making it easier for wildlife to roam near infrastructure like airports.
Footage of the bear sprinting across the runway quickly went viral on social media. Local authorities are continuing efforts to safely locate and remove the animal.
Flights from South Africa to Japan: Here are the essentials you must know about
For South African citizens planning a trip to Japan, a few key steps are required before departure.
Firstly, a valid passport is needed. It must remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date. In most cases, a tourist visa is also necessary.
This visa must be obtained before travel and requires you to submit documents such as proof of funds, a clean criminal record, and a detailed travel plan.
There are no direct flights from South Africa to Japan. Travellers must book connecting flights, typically through international hubs in the Middle East, Europe, or Southeast Asia.
The visa process is handled through the Japanese embassy or consulate, where you will need to provide:
- Your passport
- Visa application forms
- Proof of accommodation and return flights
- Evidence that you can cover your expenses during the trip
Japan no longer requires a negative PCR test or vaccination proof for entry as of April 2023. However, travellers can speed up arrival procedures by registering with the Visit Japan Web app before departure.
Customs regulations in Japan are strict. Travellers should familiarise themselves with limits on items like alcohol, cigarettes, and food. Bringing in restricted items can lead to fines or confiscation.
South Africans considering a trip to Japan should begin visa applications well in advance to avoid delays.
Once there, they can expect a highly organised and safe travel experience — even if an occasional bear finds its way onto the runway.
