Outline of Japan and Global Geopark

What is Geopark?

（1）What is Geopark?

Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.

In 2004, with UNESCO’s support, Geoparks of European countries, China, Japan, and other countries came together to form the Global Geoparks Network (GGN). In October 2010, the San’in Kaigan Geopark was validated to the GGN. In September 2014, the San’in Kaigan Geopark expanded its area and was revalidated to the GGN. In 2015, the GGN became an official program of UNESCO.

（2）Differences between World Heritage Sites and Global Geoparks

Unlike the world heritage sites that are designated mainly for preservation, Geoparks aim not only to conserve natural heritage featuring geology but also to use such heritage for education and regional revitalization. It is in this aspect that Geoparks are different from world heritage sites. Also, with respect to Geoparks, at the occasions of validation and revalidation, emphasis is placed not only on sites but also on activities conducted there (e.g. educational programs, tour guide training, and community promotion measures) and organizations managing the Geoparks. Moreover, unlike world heritages, Geoparks are subject to revalidation every four years.

（3）How to Enjoy Geopark?

If you want to enjoy Geopark, we recommend you guided tour. You can experience the precious landscape, culture, and nature that are difficult to notice in ordinary sightseeing, such as the origin of the land and the background of beautiful landscapes.

You, also, can get various information concerning geopark from each of the core facility. After the geosite tour is over or after visiting facilities, take your time enjoying the other aspects of the geopark as well. For example, you can enjoy delicious local food or refresh yourself in a hot, relaxing spa, which is one of the gifts from the “Geo.”

●Further information on geopark

Global Geopark Network (GGN)

The number of sites in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network is 229 in 50 countries as of April 2025.

Japanese Geopark Network (JGN)

As of October 2025, 48 geoparks are designated as Japanese Geopark Network by the Japan Geopark Committee. Among them, 10 geoparks are designated as UNESCCO Global Geopark.

●As of October 2025, the JGN regular membership consists of 10 UNESCO Global Geoparks in Japan and 38 Japanese National Geoparks.