Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark: Kōchi’s Geo-Treasure Trove

Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark

An akō, or deciduous fig, on the grounds of the Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark.

A geopark is an area where people can experience topographical and geological features, ecosystems, and cultural characteristics of an area. The Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark encompassing the whole of the Muroto city in Kōchi Prefecture offers a dynamic experience of the natural wonders to be found on the earth’s crust.

Sites of particular interest—called geosites—include the Muroto Cape turbidite zone, where one can see topographical protuberances resulting from earthquakes and other disturbances, the Gyōdo-Kuromi coastline deep sea zone containing exposed submarine strata, and the Kiragawa cultural heritage zone that preserves the area’s traditional townscape.

Access: From Nahari Station on the Tosa Kuroshio Railway Asa Line take the Kōchi Tōbu bus heading to Kannoura. Get off at Muroto Global Geopark Center (approximately one hour).

Website: Visit Kochi Japan (Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark)

(Banner photo: The dramatic sea coast of the Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark. Courtesy of Kōchi Visitors and Convention Association.)