Bearman of Hokkaido

Hokkaido Prefecture’s Shiretoko Peninsula is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The area includes one of the world’s densest concentrations of wild brown bears. 84-year-old fisherman Ose Hatsusaburo has forged a remarkable relationship with these creatures over a lifetime of working among them. Bears obey his commands without a fuss, and no fisherman has suffered a bear attack in 50 years. A rapidly shifting climate and recent UNESCO directives mean this unique way of life now faces an uncertain future.