Geoparks and the Role of Geography: Comparison with Similar Institutions

Abstract

Currently geoparks, which involve making an entire area into a field museum that contributes to the development of the surrounding region, are becoming popular with the protracted period of Japanese economic recession and decline in the economies of local communities. While this is a boon for geography, geoparks may be swallowed up by similar systems if appropriate measures are not taken. This paper examines the potential and problems of geoparks and the role of geography in comparison with the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System, ecomuseums, and Intangible Cultural Heritage assets. Geoparks need the cooperation of scientists, a system to guide the relationships between nature and humans, and good field design to solve issues in the area.