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ジオパークについて
What's a Geopark?
Geoparks are territories defined by the UNESCO encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance, not only for geological reasons but also by virtue of its archaeological, ecological or cultural value. In contrast to world heritage sites, focus is put not only on preservation, but also encouraging the research of the natural heritage ares on site, e.g. geological formations, topography, volcanoes etc. Geoparks are a place where the relation between humans and nature can be understood to a deeper level, a place for scientific education and disaster prevention studies as well as for promoting "Geo-tourism" of the local geologic heritage. This initiative helps create a sustainable economic and cultural development in the region.
The Idea of the Eco Museum
Date-shi, Toyako-cho and Toyoura-cho have been promoting the concept of an "Eco Museum" as a reconstruction effort after the eruption of Mount Usu in 2000. The region here provides a variety of nature, culture and activity resources. Examples are the geologic features and volcanic activities around Lake Toya and Mount Usu, the natural features in this area, the heritage sites from the Jōmon-Period, the hot springs, tourism, etc.. With all these, the Eco Museum has become a place for education, to experience the tradition of living together with volcanoes, and to promote economic development and tourism.
In this way the Geopark and the Eco Museum share the same organization and goals, whereby the latter orients itself towards the direction of the Toya Caldera and Usu Volcano Geopark.
