29 50

Region

Japan

07

Ecoregions

0

Members

29

% Protected


It might come as a surprise that nature can reach half in Japan. This is an impressive fact considering that Japan occupies an archipelago half the size of Texas and is home to 127 million people. How has Japan preserved so much of its natural habitat? Densely populated urban areas cover less than 10% of the landscape, adjacent to  forested mountains and hills that take up more than 70% of the terrestrial area.

Kyoto-She, Japan. Photo by Jordy Meow.

Japan's Ecology

Industrialization did not curtail ancient, nature-based beliefs which continue to suffuse Japanese culture and lifestyles. This value system has played a part in Japan’s preservation of nature. Geology has also helped. With over two-thirds of the island covered in steep terrain making construction projects difficult, Japanese urban planners have a strong incentive to limit the size of city sprawl to the relatively flat landscapes along the coast. The health of nature in Japan depends on a continuation of these systems.

Half (Mission Achieved)

Ecologically intact & protected landscapes comprise 50% or more of this country.

Can Reach Half

Intact landscapes lacking protected status comprise 50% or more of this country.

Could Be Restored

Between 20-40% of landscapes are still ecologically intact.

Imperiled

Less than 20% of the natural ecology of this area is intact.

The Nature Needs Half movement is only as strong as its member organizations. Discover more about the individuals and organizations who have committed to protecting 50% of the planet by 2050.
Become a Member

EcoRegions

Yamanouchi, Japan. Photo by Steven Diaz.
Daisetsuzan National Park

The snowy peaks in Japan’s largest national park shelter a large population of wildlife, including brown bears and pikas.

Nara, Japan. Photo by Mirko Blicke.
Aya Biosphere Reserve

This southern reserve includes the town of Aya where the people practice the centuries old tradition of forest therapy.

Lake Kawaguchi, Japan. Photo by Jase Bloor.
Minami Alps National Park

The Fuji River is born is this protected landscape, which is also home to the Asiatic black bear, wild boar, and Sika deer.

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