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A delegation of the Task Force on Hong Kong Geopark is visiting Japan from April 24 to 27 to gain an in-depth understanding of the strategy to manage geoparks and promote public awareness of geo-conservation.
The delegation visited Itoigawa Global Geopark and San'in Coast Geopark during their stay in Japan and will also meet members of the Japan Geopark Committee.
"Japan has set a good example in pursuing the key objectives of conservation, education and sustainable development of geoparks. We have much to learn from their experience. The visit will help foster co-operation between Hong Kong and Japan in research and geoheritage conservation," the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Alan Wong, said.
The delegation visited Itoigawa Global Geopark today (April 26). The whole city of Itoigawa is designated as a geopark, with 24 geosites showcasing a wide variety of geo-attractions. The rocks there have a history of over 500 million years. Located at the north of the great fault line, the Itoigawa-Shizuoka Tectonic Line, the geopark forms the backdrop to two distinctive cultures in east and west Japan, reflected in their cuisines, dialects and culture. Itoigawa Global Geopark is a sister geopark of Hong Kong National Geopark.
The delegation will meet members of the Japan Geopark Committee at the Tsukuba Geological Museum tomorrow to exchange views and experiences with the aim of better conserving and promoting geological attractions.
Yesterday, the delegation visited San'in Coast Geopark. It became one of the seven national geoparks in Japan in December 2008, just one year before Hong Kong established its own national geopark. Like Hong Kong National Geopark, San'in Coast Geopark is preparing to seek global geopark status from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
Situated along a rocky coastline with a fascinating assortment of geological features, such as sea arches and sea stacks formed by wave erosion over time, San'in Coast Geopark is said to be "geological museum". Tottori Sand Dunes, a unique topographical feature formed by deposits brought by the river to the sea, is a famous attraction.
During the trip, the delegation enjoyed a boat ride to look at the amazing spiral pattern on rhyolites at close proximity, and visited the Nature Museum and Geopark Centre to have a better understanding of how Japan educated visitors to preserve these geosites of significance.
Task force members joining the visit include Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Professor Fung Tung; Chairman of the Association for Geoconservation of Hong Kong, Mr Young Ng; Director of the Conservancy Association, Ms Betty Ho; Chairman of the Tai Po Environmental Association, Dr Yau Wing-kwong; member of the Geotechnical Engineers Registration Committee, Dr Eric Li; and Assistant Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Joseph Sham.
Ends/Monday, April 26, 2010
Issued at HKT 16:38
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