This volume brings together the geological, geomorphological and ecological aspects of Japan's natural heritage, arguing for dynamic conservation of such heritage and explaining their key characteristics in an accessible format for general readers. Sites from World Heritage Properties (Natural), UNESCO Global Geoparks, and National Parks of Japan representing key facets of this heritage are analyzed in depth, and the text is supplemented with color photographs and useful information for potential travelers. The volume is divided into thematic sections that help understand the diversity of Japan's natural heritage, with supplementary information on conservation, tourism trends, local culture and lifestyles. In addition, chapters analyzing nature's mechanisms that engender diverse heritage landscapes and conservation/sustainable management schemes make this volume a valuable resource for both general readers and those with more specialized interests.

This volume brings together the geological, geomorphological and ecological aspects of Japan’s natural heritage, arguing for dynamic conservation of such heritage and explaining their key characteristics in an accessible format for general readers. Sites from World Heritage Properties (Natural), UNESCO Global Geoparks, and National Parks of Japan representing key facets of this heritage are analyzed in depth, and the text is supplemented with color photographs and useful information for potential travelers. The volume is divided into thematic sections that help understand the diversity of Japan’s natural heritage, with supplementary information on conservation, tourism trends, local culture and lifestyles. In addition, chapters analyzing nature's mechanisms that engender diverse heritage landscapes and conservation/sustainable management schemes make this volume a valuable resource for both general readers and those with more specialized interests.

Introduction.- Geology of the Japanese Islands: An Outline.- Volcanic Archipelago: Volcanism as a Geoheritage Characteristic of Japan.- Shiretoko Peninsula: Dynamic Interaction between Geology, Geomorphology and Ecology at The Interface of Terrestrial and Marine Systems.- Shirakami Mountains: Old-growth Forests of Siebold’s Beech Supporting Biodiversity in a Dynamic Landscape.- Ogasawara Islands World Heritage Area: An Outstanding Ecological Heritage.- Yakushima Island: Landscape History, World Heritage Designation and Conservation Status for Local Society.- The Origin and Development of Geoparks in Japan: Reflections from a Personal Perspective.- San’in-Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark: Geology and Conservation of the Oriental Stork.- Muroto Geopark: Understanding the Moving Earth.- The Interface of Geology, Ecology and Society: The Case of Aso Volcanic Landscape.- The Mt. Unzen Disaster: A Terrible Learning Experience.- Challenges for Geoconservation in Contemporary Japan.- The Lake AkanArea: A Future Geopark.- Oze Wetland: The Birth Place of the Nature Conservation Movement in Japan.- Mount Fuji: The Volcano, the Heritage and the Mountain.- Synthesis.