Raccoons spread into Japanese cities as farm damage mounts

Raccoon damage is rising sharply across Japan, with agricultural losses nearing $4.5 million a year as the invasive species expands into cities as well as rural areas

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Damage to agricultural crops caused by raccoons reached $4.3 million nationwide in the fiscal year starting April 2024, more than double $2.1 million recorded in 2014, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.



The problem is also becoming increasingly visible in urban areas.



In Osaka, complaints from residents about raccoons have climbed in recent years, including reports of goldfish being eaten from garden ponds and animals breaking into attics.



The city received 161 complaints in fiscal 2023, rising to 332 the following year and 397 in fiscal 2025.



According to the Osaka prefectural government, raccoons have been confirmed not only in mountainous areas but also in urban districts, with their range expanding particularly in central parts of the prefecture, including Osaka city.