This article introduces the brown bear, known as "Kimun Kamuy" in the Ainu language, meaning "god of the mountains." They inhabit all areas of Hokkaido except for its remote islands, and are particularly active from fall to winter as they store food before hibernation.

Walking through a grassy field

While strolling deep in the mountains, a brown bear might appear from an unexpected place.

A hurried shot taken on a dimly lit forest road

Despite weighing between 100 to 200 kg, brown bears are incredibly agile. They can climb trees in an instant to find berries or to rest. This one was resting on a tree for a while.

Climbing trees is second nature to them

You can see its sharp claws, and it has sharp teeth as well. Although often thought of as carnivorous, brown bears are actually omnivores. Their molars are perfectly suited for crushing and grinding plants.

It might look cute at first glance, but...

Around dusk, I heard a rustling sound from up the slope and looked up to see...

Watching me from the top of the slope

Even among Hokkaido residents, many have never seen a wild brown bear. In the towns of Shari and Rausu, there are tours to observe the ecology of brown bears from the sea. From here, I'll share photos taken from a boat operated by a tour company in Rausu.

A brown bear walks beneath a very high cliff. It patrols the coastline, feeding on crustaceans and other creatures attached to seaweed.

Even a brown bear looks small in the face of grand nature

Many people have a strong image of brown bears catching salmon and trout, and this is that very scene.

A brown bear gazing at the river

Even for a brown bear, it doesn't seem to be an easy catch.

Pink salmon. The brown bear hasn't noticed yet

Suddenly, the bear lunged into the river.

A somewhat endearing view from behind

Am I the only one who thinks it looks somewhat proud? I hope it stores up enough food to survive the winter and welcome the spring thaw.

Successfully caught its prey