Mysterious Japan and Its Wondrous Wetlands

  Japan

• All Other Areas: 
Hokkaido

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks

Description: Japan almost defies description - a land of opposites and at times tantalisingly inscrutable. BTCV's holidays in Japan have proved some of our most memorable allowing us access to the heart and soul of this fascinating culture and country, and the friendliest people you'll meet.

One previous participant said: This was a truly magnificent holiday. It encompassed everything that a BTCV international project should: interesting and satisfying work, an opportunity to meet many Japanese people, a discovery of Hokkaido wildlife and a brisk but fascinating immersion into Japanese culture, traditional and modern. A package that is possibly unique amongst holiday operators.

Who we're working with

We're working with the Kinashibetsu Wetland Trust, a part of the Association of National Trusts in Japan, and comprised of a set of landowners whose land encompasses the Kinashibetsu Wetland. These landowners have committed themselves to promoting the area's conservation.

Where we're working

The project is taking place on the South-Eastern Pacific coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's four islands. Hokkaido represents about 20% of the land area of Japan but is relatively sparsely populated with only 5% of the population. There are some important National Parks and wilderness areas on the island and even bears, although you are unlikely to see them! The Kinashibetsu nature conservation area is typical of the scenery found along the Pacific coastline. It is situated next to the most important wetland site in Japan, 50 km Southwest of Kushiro city. A variety of wildflower and grass species bloom from early spring to late autumn on the wetland and on the natural shoreline along the Pacific Ocean coast. These wild flowers and grasses are home to many insects. The area contains virgin forest, home to many rare bird species. Kinashibetsu Nature Conservation Area is within the small village of Chokubetsu facing the Pacific Ocean and 50km from Kushiro City. Typical of the scenery along the Pacific coastline, the area contains virgin forest, sand dunes, alpine plant areas, wetlands and farmland. Close to the most important wetland site in Japan, the area is home to many rare species of birds (over 83 species), including Japanese crane, white tailed sea eagle, grey heron and Japanese snipe. There are more than 344 plant species, and about 200ha of virgin forest. Nearby is Kushiro Wetland National Park, Akam National Park, Mt. Taisetsu National Park and Atukeshi prefecture park. Our base is at the farm of Genshi Sakakibaru deep in the heart of the Conservation Area.

What we'll be doing

Much of our work will be concerned with development of the nature reserve including construction of boardwalks, the creation of a new marsh garden and restoration of traditional farm fences. We'll be taking part in activities to develop awareness of the value of environmental conservation in the area by improving trail systems and visitor infrastructure. The project aims to build local and regional interest in volunteering and in previous years we've worked alongside school and community groups and with volunteers recruited from Tokyo.

Benefits of our work

This year the work will contribute to restoring the original habitat, which years ago was characterised by various species of aquatic insects and birds before invasive reed began to cover the water surface and lead to progressive drying. In addition, an underlying and important aim of the project is to encourage local people to take more interest in the conservation of their local natural area, leading a revival in traditional farming methods used in Hokkaido. Having an international group working alongside them encourages Japanese participants to see the true value of their own natural resources - and the fun involved in their conservation!

Where we'll be staying

We'll be staying in the very comfortable Japanese National Trust volunteer house on the farm where much of the work is taking place. The house contains two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, living space, and an office room. Catering will be a mix of eating out in a range of Japanese restaurants and self-catering using as far as possible, produce from a neighbouring organic farm.

Highlights: Our Japanes hosts are keen to show us as much as possible of Japan's culture, such as the tea ceremony, Kimono wearing or flower arrangement - the history and traditions of Hokkaido. A real highlight of the holiday is a day trip to Shiretoko National Park, Akan Lake and Sulpher Mountain. Shiretoko is a peninsula of snow capped mountains designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 - end the day with a dip in the hot springs and fantastic Japanese sushi. There are also plenty of opportunities in afternoons to visit the myriad local temples and find out more about the native Ainu people of the region.

Qualifications: You must be over 18. No previous experience necessary.

Cost in US$: Approx. $1385 (670 GBP)

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-80

Participants Travel to Japan Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Other

BTCV's Mission Statement: BTCV is the UK's largest practical conservation organization. It is a charity which involves over 130,000 people every year in projects to bring about positive environmental change. When BTCV was first established, over 40 years ago, most projects took place in the countryside and on nature reserves. The emphasis was on nature reserves. The emphasis was on improving rural landscapes and protecting habitats for wildlife. However it is not just; Countryside Landscape Wildlife But also Providing opportunities to volunteer Improving towns and cities Building communities Developing skills Helping people into work BTCV's remit has broadened considerably over the last four decades. We have evolved to meet the needs of an ever changing world. As far as conservation work is concerned, BTCV now offers volunteering opportunities in urban as well as rural locations, thus improving our towns and cities as well as the countryside. But beyond this, we also; give support to local groups train people in conservation and life skills run schemes - and take part in government initiatives - to help people secure employment.

Year Founded: 1959