Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve
The Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and surrounding area straddling Oita and Miyazaki Prefectures hasdeveloped a diverse and precious ecosystem with its unique natural beauty and distinctive topography and geology.
The people living in the region have long respected and protected this rich nature while making good use of thebounty it offers.
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere Reserve
Zoning map▶

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve system

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve’s Measures

What are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves?
Official name: Biosphere Reserves

Principles behind activities of Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are a business launched by UNESCO in
1976 for the purpose of balancing the conservation and sustainable use of
ecosystems.
While the World Heritage system in principle protects unspoiled nature,
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves aim for symbiosis between nature andhuman society.
A total of 669 regions from 120 countries are registered (as of June 2017).

Handing down the forests, waters and way of life nurturedby the peaks and valleys to future generations~Holding nature in awe~
Having received UNESCO registration, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve aims tohand down to the next generation the rich natural environment of the region as well as the way of lifeof the people who have accomplished its development while revering nature.

HigashBungo-onoRegistered in Japan: 9 regions (as of June 2017)

502

57

Saiki
Mount Sobo

10

ssway

326

Basic policy 2
Support for academic research, surveys and training

Hinokage
Classification

Area (ha)Core regions

1,580

Buffer regions

17,748Transition regions

224,344

Total Biosphere Reserve

243,672

Nobeoka218

Areaclassification
10

Core regions
Buffer regions
Transition
regions

The prefectural and municipal map was created by the Sobo
Katamuki Biosphere Reserve Oita and Miyazaki Promotion
Council based on MILT’s “National Land Numerical Information(Administrative Area Data)” (2015). (http://nlftp.mlit.go.jp/ksj/)
The background map was created using a Geographical Survey
Institute tile (color elevation map) from the Geographical Survey
Institute. (The ocean areas were created using materials of theJapan Coast Guard’s Ocean Information Bureau.)(http://www.gsi.go.jp/)

Features of Sobo Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Steep mountainous terrain
and beautiful valleys

Wide range of vegetation
and rare species

Three functions and regions
Preservation
function

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Mount Okue

Takachiho(1) Enhance conservation functions by promoting
research surveys(2) Promote conservation activities to be done by
local residents

u ExpreMount Katamuki

MiyazakiPrefecture

Basic policy 1
Continuous conservation of precious ecosystem

i-KyushTakedaConservation and useof abundant nature(1) Promote research surveys by constructing an
academic research system(2) Promote ESD in coordination with communities(3) Contribute as a model for solving issues inJapan and overseas(Conservation of biodiversity)
Being an important region forpreserving biodiversity, including
ecosystems representative of
biological geographical zones
where there is some humanintervention

Basic policy 3
Sustainable development through symbiosis with nature(1) Develop the region through continuous use in
keeping with the times(2) Secure and develop the bearers of the next
generation

History of the Promotion Council
August 2016
National recommendations
determined(Japanese National
Commission for UNESCO, MAB
planning subcommittee)

June 2017
Registration decided(UNESCO MAB planninginternational coordination
board of directors)

September 2017
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere
Reserve Promotion
Council established

Inquiries: Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

The region offers unique scenic beauty,
including rocky ridges from volcanic
activity in every direction, and magnificent
cliffs and beautiful low hill valleys that
capture the attention of visitors.

Home to a wide range of vegetation as
well as rare animal species such as theJapanese serow and the Sobo
salamander, the region is a biologicaltreasure trove.

Local residents carry out nature
conservation activities and sustainable
use of natural resources (agriculture,
forestry and tourism) while revering
nature.

Oita office: Oita Prefecture, Living Environment Department, Nature Conservation Promotion Office Tel: 097-536-1111 (switchboard)
Miyazaki office: Miyazaki Prefecture, General Policy Department, Hilly and Mountainous Areas Policy Division Tel: 0985-26-7035 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Saiki City, Regional Development Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Nobeoka City, Management Policy Division
Tel: 0972-22-3486 (direct)
Tel: 0982-22-7074 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Takeda City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Town, Finance Division, General Policy OfficeTel: 0974-63-4807 (direct)
Tel: 0982-73-1260 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Bungo-ono City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division Miyazaki Prefecture, Hinokage Town, Regional Development Division
Tel: 0974-22-1001 (switchboard)
Tel: 0982-87-3910 (direct)
More detailed information is available on our website!
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council website
http://sobokatamuki-br-council.org/

Academic
research support

Economic andsocial development

Providing places for surveys,
research, education andtraining for the sake ofsustainable development

Taking measures that can be amodel in Japan and overseas forsustainable development inharmony with natural environment
conservation

These are not independent functions but have a relationship in which UNESCO Biosphere Reserves reinforce one another.
To fulfill these three functions, we have established three regions.

In order to fully carry out its three functions, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve works
closely with related organizations to implement measures in line with the above basic policies.

February 2015
Sobo Katamuki UNESCO
Biosphere Reserve Oita
and Miyazaki Promotion
Council establishedSymbiosis

Mount Haku (Ishikawa Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Fukui Prefecture), Odaigahara, Mount
Omine and Osugidani (Mie Prefecture, Nara Prefecture), Shiga Highlands (Nagano Prefecture, Gunma
Prefecture), Yakushima and Kuchinoerabu-jima (Kagoshima Prefecture), Aya (Miyazaki Prefecture), Minami-Alps(Yamanashi Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture), Tadami (Fukushima Prefecture), Sobo,
Katamuki and Okue (Oita Prefecture, Miyazaki Prefecture), Minakami (Gunma Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture)

Basic action policies
Oita
Prefecture

Nature ＝ People

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

Core regions

Buffer regions

Transition regions

Regions in which the naturalenvironment must be strictly
protected

Regions that act as a cushion
between core and transition
regions to protect core regions
from human activity

Regions that aim forsustainable development suchas human habitation,
environmentally friendly
industrial activity, etc.

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve
The Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and surrounding area straddling Oita and Miyazaki Prefectures hasdeveloped a diverse and precious ecosystem with its unique natural beauty and distinctive topography and geology.
The people living in the region have long respected and protected this rich nature while making good use of thebounty it offers.
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere Reserve
Zoning map▶

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve system

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve’s Measures

What are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves?
Official name: Biosphere Reserves

Principles behind activities of Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are a business launched by UNESCO in
1976 for the purpose of balancing the conservation and sustainable use of
ecosystems.
While the World Heritage system in principle protects unspoiled nature,
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves aim for symbiosis between nature andhuman society.
A total of 669 regions from 120 countries are registered (as of June 2017).

Handing down the forests, waters and way of life nurturedby the peaks and valleys to future generations~Holding nature in awe~
Having received UNESCO registration, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve aims tohand down to the next generation the rich natural environment of the region as well as the way of lifeof the people who have accomplished its development while revering nature.

HigashBungo-onoRegistered in Japan: 9 regions (as of June 2017)

502

57

Saiki
Mount Sobo

10

ssway

326

Basic policy 2
Support for academic research, surveys and training

Hinokage
Classification

Area (ha)Core regions

1,580

Buffer regions

17,748Transition regions

224,344

Total Biosphere Reserve

243,672

Nobeoka218

Areaclassification
10

Core regions
Buffer regions
Transition
regions

The prefectural and municipal map was created by the Sobo
Katamuki Biosphere Reserve Oita and Miyazaki Promotion
Council based on MILT’s “National Land Numerical Information(Administrative Area Data)” (2015). (http://nlftp.mlit.go.jp/ksj/)
The background map was created using a Geographical Survey
Institute tile (color elevation map) from the Geographical Survey
Institute. (The ocean areas were created using materials of theJapan Coast Guard’s Ocean Information Bureau.)(http://www.gsi.go.jp/)

Features of Sobo Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Steep mountainous terrain
and beautiful valleys

Wide range of vegetation
and rare species

Three functions and regions
Preservation
function

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Mount Okue

Takachiho(1) Enhance conservation functions by promoting
research surveys(2) Promote conservation activities to be done by
local residents

u ExpreMount Katamuki

MiyazakiPrefecture

Basic policy 1
Continuous conservation of precious ecosystem

i-KyushTakedaConservation and useof abundant nature(1) Promote research surveys by constructing an
academic research system(2) Promote ESD in coordination with communities(3) Contribute as a model for solving issues inJapan and overseas(Conservation of biodiversity)
Being an important region forpreserving biodiversity, including
ecosystems representative of
biological geographical zones
where there is some humanintervention

Basic policy 3
Sustainable development through symbiosis with nature(1) Develop the region through continuous use in
keeping with the times(2) Secure and develop the bearers of the next
generation

History of the Promotion Council
August 2016
National recommendations
determined(Japanese National
Commission for UNESCO, MAB
planning subcommittee)

June 2017
Registration decided(UNESCO MAB planninginternational coordination
board of directors)

September 2017
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere
Reserve Promotion
Council established

Inquiries: Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

The region offers unique scenic beauty,
including rocky ridges from volcanic
activity in every direction, and magnificent
cliffs and beautiful low hill valleys that
capture the attention of visitors.

Home to a wide range of vegetation as
well as rare animal species such as theJapanese serow and the Sobo
salamander, the region is a biologicaltreasure trove.

Local residents carry out nature
conservation activities and sustainable
use of natural resources (agriculture,
forestry and tourism) while revering
nature.

Oita office: Oita Prefecture, Living Environment Department, Nature Conservation Promotion Office Tel: 097-536-1111 (switchboard)
Miyazaki office: Miyazaki Prefecture, General Policy Department, Hilly and Mountainous Areas Policy Division Tel: 0985-26-7035 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Saiki City, Regional Development Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Nobeoka City, Management Policy Division
Tel: 0972-22-3486 (direct)
Tel: 0982-22-7074 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Takeda City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Town, Finance Division, General Policy OfficeTel: 0974-63-4807 (direct)
Tel: 0982-73-1260 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Bungo-ono City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division Miyazaki Prefecture, Hinokage Town, Regional Development Division
Tel: 0974-22-1001 (switchboard)
Tel: 0982-87-3910 (direct)
More detailed information is available on our website!
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council website
http://sobokatamuki-br-council.org/

Academic
research support

Economic andsocial development

Providing places for surveys,
research, education andtraining for the sake ofsustainable development

Taking measures that can be amodel in Japan and overseas forsustainable development inharmony with natural environment
conservation

These are not independent functions but have a relationship in which UNESCO Biosphere Reserves reinforce one another.
To fulfill these three functions, we have established three regions.

In order to fully carry out its three functions, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve works
closely with related organizations to implement measures in line with the above basic policies.

February 2015
Sobo Katamuki UNESCO
Biosphere Reserve Oita
and Miyazaki Promotion
Council establishedSymbiosis

Mount Haku (Ishikawa Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Fukui Prefecture), Odaigahara, Mount
Omine and Osugidani (Mie Prefecture, Nara Prefecture), Shiga Highlands (Nagano Prefecture, Gunma
Prefecture), Yakushima and Kuchinoerabu-jima (Kagoshima Prefecture), Aya (Miyazaki Prefecture), Minami-Alps(Yamanashi Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture), Tadami (Fukushima Prefecture), Sobo,
Katamuki and Okue (Oita Prefecture, Miyazaki Prefecture), Minakami (Gunma Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture)

Basic action policies
Oita
Prefecture

Nature ＝ People

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

Core regions

Buffer regions

Transition regions

Regions in which the naturalenvironment must be strictly
protected

Regions that act as a cushion
between core and transition
regions to protect core regions
from human activity

Regions that aim forsustainable development suchas human habitation,
environmentally friendly
industrial activity, etc.

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve
The Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and surrounding area straddling Oita and Miyazaki Prefectures hasdeveloped a diverse and precious ecosystem with its unique natural beauty and distinctive topography and geology.
The people living in the region have long respected and protected this rich nature while making good use of thebounty it offers.
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere Reserve
Zoning map▶

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve system

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve’s Measures

What are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves?
Official name: Biosphere Reserves

Principles behind activities of Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are a business launched by UNESCO in
1976 for the purpose of balancing the conservation and sustainable use of
ecosystems.
While the World Heritage system in principle protects unspoiled nature,
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves aim for symbiosis between nature andhuman society.
A total of 669 regions from 120 countries are registered (as of June 2017).

Handing down the forests, waters and way of life nurturedby the peaks and valleys to future generations~Holding nature in awe~
Having received UNESCO registration, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve aims tohand down to the next generation the rich natural environment of the region as well as the way of lifeof the people who have accomplished its development while revering nature.

HigashBungo-onoRegistered in Japan: 9 regions (as of June 2017)

502

57

Saiki
Mount Sobo

10

ssway

326

Basic policy 2
Support for academic research, surveys and training

Hinokage
Classification

Area (ha)Core regions

1,580

Buffer regions

17,748Transition regions

224,344

Total Biosphere Reserve

243,672

Nobeoka218

Areaclassification
10

Core regions
Buffer regions
Transition
regions

The prefectural and municipal map was created by the Sobo
Katamuki Biosphere Reserve Oita and Miyazaki Promotion
Council based on MILT’s “National Land Numerical Information(Administrative Area Data)” (2015). (http://nlftp.mlit.go.jp/ksj/)
The background map was created using a Geographical Survey
Institute tile (color elevation map) from the Geographical Survey
Institute. (The ocean areas were created using materials of theJapan Coast Guard’s Ocean Information Bureau.)(http://www.gsi.go.jp/)

Features of Sobo Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Steep mountainous terrain
and beautiful valleys

Wide range of vegetation
and rare species

Three functions and regions
Preservation
function

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Mount Okue

Takachiho(1) Enhance conservation functions by promoting
research surveys(2) Promote conservation activities to be done by
local residents

u ExpreMount Katamuki

MiyazakiPrefecture

Basic policy 1
Continuous conservation of precious ecosystem

i-KyushTakedaConservation and useof abundant nature(1) Promote research surveys by constructing an
academic research system(2) Promote ESD in coordination with communities(3) Contribute as a model for solving issues inJapan and overseas(Conservation of biodiversity)
Being an important region forpreserving biodiversity, including
ecosystems representative of
biological geographical zones
where there is some humanintervention

Basic policy 3
Sustainable development through symbiosis with nature(1) Develop the region through continuous use in
keeping with the times(2) Secure and develop the bearers of the next
generation

History of the Promotion Council
August 2016
National recommendations
determined(Japanese National
Commission for UNESCO, MAB
planning subcommittee)

June 2017
Registration decided(UNESCO MAB planninginternational coordination
board of directors)

September 2017
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere
Reserve Promotion
Council established

Inquiries: Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

The region offers unique scenic beauty,
including rocky ridges from volcanic
activity in every direction, and magnificent
cliffs and beautiful low hill valleys that
capture the attention of visitors.

Home to a wide range of vegetation as
well as rare animal species such as theJapanese serow and the Sobo
salamander, the region is a biologicaltreasure trove.

Local residents carry out nature
conservation activities and sustainable
use of natural resources (agriculture,
forestry and tourism) while revering
nature.

Oita office: Oita Prefecture, Living Environment Department, Nature Conservation Promotion Office Tel: 097-536-1111 (switchboard)
Miyazaki office: Miyazaki Prefecture, General Policy Department, Hilly and Mountainous Areas Policy Division Tel: 0985-26-7035 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Saiki City, Regional Development Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Nobeoka City, Management Policy Division
Tel: 0972-22-3486 (direct)
Tel: 0982-22-7074 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Takeda City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Town, Finance Division, General Policy OfficeTel: 0974-63-4807 (direct)
Tel: 0982-73-1260 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Bungo-ono City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division Miyazaki Prefecture, Hinokage Town, Regional Development Division
Tel: 0974-22-1001 (switchboard)
Tel: 0982-87-3910 (direct)
More detailed information is available on our website!
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council website
http://sobokatamuki-br-council.org/

Academic
research support

Economic andsocial development

Providing places for surveys,
research, education andtraining for the sake ofsustainable development

Taking measures that can be amodel in Japan and overseas forsustainable development inharmony with natural environment
conservation

These are not independent functions but have a relationship in which UNESCO Biosphere Reserves reinforce one another.
To fulfill these three functions, we have established three regions.

In order to fully carry out its three functions, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve works
closely with related organizations to implement measures in line with the above basic policies.

February 2015
Sobo Katamuki UNESCO
Biosphere Reserve Oita
and Miyazaki Promotion
Council establishedSymbiosis

Mount Haku (Ishikawa Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Fukui Prefecture), Odaigahara, Mount
Omine and Osugidani (Mie Prefecture, Nara Prefecture), Shiga Highlands (Nagano Prefecture, Gunma
Prefecture), Yakushima and Kuchinoerabu-jima (Kagoshima Prefecture), Aya (Miyazaki Prefecture), Minami-Alps(Yamanashi Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture), Tadami (Fukushima Prefecture), Sobo,
Katamuki and Okue (Oita Prefecture, Miyazaki Prefecture), Minakami (Gunma Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture)

Basic action policies
Oita
Prefecture

Nature ＝ People

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

Core regions

Buffer regions

Transition regions

Regions in which the naturalenvironment must be strictly
protected

Regions that act as a cushion
between core and transition
regions to protect core regions
from human activity

Regions that aim forsustainable development suchas human habitation,
environmentally friendly
industrial activity, etc.

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2~Steep mountains and deep valleys~~Wide range of vegetation and rare species~~Protecting and nurturing precious nature for future generations~

Famous for its steep mountainous terrain and magnificent ridgelines, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range has a complex topography and geology, including undulating rocky peaks,
precipitous cliffs, and a network of gorges running through valleys, creating a unique andseasonally changing landscape that delights all who visit.

There are still many natural forests at high altitude in the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, where a wide
range of vegetation from warm temperate to cool temperature can be found depending on the mountain height.
It is a precious area, home to many rare plants and animals with limited areas to live such as the Japaneseserow, a special natural monument, and the so-called Sohayaki group of plants, said to reveal the origins of theJapanese archipelago. These rare species are endangered so we need to protect their habitat environment.

To conserve the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and leave it for future
generations, we try to protect our precious native forests and also conduct tree-planting and otherproper forest functionality improvement measures, ecosystem surveys, wildlife damage prevention
measures, river environmental improvement measures, and so on.

~Respecting nature and handing down received tradition to
the next generation~Iwa
en from Tengu
se
o
b
o
S
t
n
u
o
o)
M
chih
-ono, Takago
(Takeda, Bun*Sohayaki plants: Endemic species distributed evenly over the mountainous regions of Kii Province, Shikoku andKyushu, the areas of the Japanese archipelago that have been dry land the longest.

alley
Kawakami V

row
Japanese se(Bungo-ono)aKirengeshom.
getation, etc
Surveying ve
untain areas
in remote mo

Fireflies along
the restored
Hakusan River

Since ancient times, people in this region have been grateful for the produce of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range with which they closely interact in the course of their daily lives, and have performed
kagura dances and lion dances at festivals to pray for their harvest and their safety. To this day, they retain
this respect for nature and are taking steps to pass their traditions on to future generations.

o.33,
Yo Kagura N
ce offering
all-night dan

Handing down
folk customs tochildrenPhoto: Takeda-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Oita Bungo-ono Geopark Promotion Council

With its sharp ridgeline and sheer rock face,
the ruggedly shaped Mount Sobo evokes awe among
the people of the region.

uki
Mount Katam
okage)-ono, Hin

(Saiki, Bungo

Covered in lush green during the summer,
Kawakami Valley has been selected as one of thehundred best places for forest bathing.

(Hinokage)

Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Bungo-ono Natural History Society

Famous for its strangely shaped rocks and clear
streams, Mitate Valley becomes brilliantly coloredin autumn as its trees change color.

An endemic salamander living only in the streams of
the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, it was
described as a new species in 2014.

Photo: Takashi Ichinose

The name “Katamuki” means “tilting”, and was given
to this mountain because it tilts toward Mount Sobo.
Its special feature is its magnificent rocky peak.

(Wakuzuka)
Mount Okue
(Nobeoka)

A government designated special natural monument, theJapanese serow is an endemic Japanese species. There
are fears that it will become extinct in the Kyushu region.

nder
Sobo salama

Mitate Valleykiount Katamu
M
d
e
p
p
a
c
w
Sno
Hinokage)-ono,

Tree thinningto maintain thefunctionality offorests

Photo: Shusei Hirano

Great purple

emperor(Saiki, Bungo

The sohayaki-group plant has a characteristic yellow
trumpet-shaped flower. It is an endangered species.

se beech
Giant Japane

Photo: Takeshi Oda

There is a vertical distribution of various kinds of vegetation in
the remote areas of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range,
where this Giant Japanese beech tree can also be found.

ono azaleab
Tsukushi ake

Ohito Kabuki,
the only village
kabuki in
KyushuPhoto: Takachiho Town

Photo: Hinoka

ge Town

Photo: Nobeo

ka City~Feeling and learning about nature and conveying its
importance to future generations~~Utilizing what nature provides and handing down a
traditional way of life to future generations~

In order to present the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range to the next generationand convey the importance of their conservation, we carry out education and training on symbiosis. The
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue region is also a famous mountain climbing spot, and in order to communicate
its appeal to people outside the area we are vigorously promoting eco-tourism, canyoning andbouldering, nature experiences that utilize the natural environment.

In the challenging natural environment of this steep terrain, residents have accumulated theknowledge and skills to make the most of what nature provides. Previously, the region prospered asa leading mining area of Japan, and various industries such as agriculture, forestry and bamboo work
have continuously been handed down. Nowadays, it is one of the country’s main producing areas ofitems such as timber, shiitake mushrooms, and Japanese star anise used in Buddhist services.

bingountain-clim
m
e
th
f
o
rt
Sta
ount Sobo
season at M
p Festival)(Mountaintogfields utilizin
Terraced rice ainterrsteep valley

Environment
education and naturewatching event withchildren

Blessings of
Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Bungo-ono City

Photo: Hinokage Town

Canyoning at
Fujikawachi
ValleyPhoto: Nobeoka City

With its stunning granite cliffs, Mount Okue becomesadorned with Akebono azaleas every spring.

In winter, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range
turns into a silent, silver world coveredin glistening frost and snow.

The great purple emperor, an endangered species,
is characterized by its vivid coloring and has been
designated the national butterfly of Japan.

Found on mountainsides at altitudes above 1,000m,
this species is peculiar to Kyushu and enjoyed bymany hill climbers in spring.

City

Photo: Takachiho Town

Photo: Saiki CityBamboo work,
one of the mainindustries

The best quality
Japanese star anisein the country

Photo: Nobeoka City

Round
watershed built todivide precious
water evenly
Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Takeda City

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2~Steep mountains and deep valleys~~Wide range of vegetation and rare species~~Protecting and nurturing precious nature for future generations~

Famous for its steep mountainous terrain and magnificent ridgelines, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range has a complex topography and geology, including undulating rocky peaks,
precipitous cliffs, and a network of gorges running through valleys, creating a unique andseasonally changing landscape that delights all who visit.

There are still many natural forests at high altitude in the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, where a wide
range of vegetation from warm temperate to cool temperature can be found depending on the mountain height.
It is a precious area, home to many rare plants and animals with limited areas to live such as the Japaneseserow, a special natural monument, and the so-called Sohayaki group of plants, said to reveal the origins of theJapanese archipelago. These rare species are endangered so we need to protect their habitat environment.

To conserve the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and leave it for future
generations, we try to protect our precious native forests and also conduct tree-planting and otherproper forest functionality improvement measures, ecosystem surveys, wildlife damage prevention
measures, river environmental improvement measures, and so on.

~Respecting nature and handing down received tradition to
the next generation~Iwa
en from Tengu
se
o
b
o
S
t
n
u
o
o)
M
chih
-ono, Takago
(Takeda, Bun*Sohayaki plants: Endemic species distributed evenly over the mountainous regions of Kii Province, Shikoku andKyushu, the areas of the Japanese archipelago that have been dry land the longest.

alley
Kawakami V

row
Japanese se(Bungo-ono)aKirengeshom.
getation, etc
Surveying ve
untain areas
in remote mo

Fireflies along
the restored
Hakusan River

Since ancient times, people in this region have been grateful for the produce of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range with which they closely interact in the course of their daily lives, and have performed
kagura dances and lion dances at festivals to pray for their harvest and their safety. To this day, they retain
this respect for nature and are taking steps to pass their traditions on to future generations.

o.33,
Yo Kagura N
ce offering
all-night dan

Handing down
folk customs tochildrenPhoto: Takeda-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Oita Bungo-ono Geopark Promotion Council

With its sharp ridgeline and sheer rock face,
the ruggedly shaped Mount Sobo evokes awe among
the people of the region.

uki
Mount Katam
okage)-ono, Hin

(Saiki, Bungo

Covered in lush green during the summer,
Kawakami Valley has been selected as one of thehundred best places for forest bathing.

(Hinokage)

Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Bungo-ono Natural History Society

Famous for its strangely shaped rocks and clear
streams, Mitate Valley becomes brilliantly coloredin autumn as its trees change color.

An endemic salamander living only in the streams of
the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, it was
described as a new species in 2014.

Photo: Takashi Ichinose

The name “Katamuki” means “tilting”, and was given
to this mountain because it tilts toward Mount Sobo.
Its special feature is its magnificent rocky peak.

(Wakuzuka)
Mount Okue
(Nobeoka)

A government designated special natural monument, theJapanese serow is an endemic Japanese species. There
are fears that it will become extinct in the Kyushu region.

nder
Sobo salama

Mitate Valleykiount Katamu
M
d
e
p
p
a
c
w
Sno
Hinokage)-ono,

Tree thinningto maintain thefunctionality offorests

Photo: Shusei Hirano

Great purple

emperor(Saiki, Bungo

The sohayaki-group plant has a characteristic yellow
trumpet-shaped flower. It is an endangered species.

se beech
Giant Japane

Photo: Takeshi Oda

There is a vertical distribution of various kinds of vegetation in
the remote areas of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range,
where this Giant Japanese beech tree can also be found.

ono azaleab
Tsukushi ake

Ohito Kabuki,
the only village
kabuki in
KyushuPhoto: Takachiho Town

Photo: Hinoka

ge Town

Photo: Nobeo

ka City~Feeling and learning about nature and conveying its
importance to future generations~~Utilizing what nature provides and handing down a
traditional way of life to future generations~

In order to present the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range to the next generationand convey the importance of their conservation, we carry out education and training on symbiosis. The
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue region is also a famous mountain climbing spot, and in order to communicate
its appeal to people outside the area we are vigorously promoting eco-tourism, canyoning andbouldering, nature experiences that utilize the natural environment.

In the challenging natural environment of this steep terrain, residents have accumulated theknowledge and skills to make the most of what nature provides. Previously, the region prospered asa leading mining area of Japan, and various industries such as agriculture, forestry and bamboo work
have continuously been handed down. Nowadays, it is one of the country’s main producing areas ofitems such as timber, shiitake mushrooms, and Japanese star anise used in Buddhist services.

bingountain-clim
m
e
th
f
o
rt
Sta
ount Sobo
season at M
p Festival)(Mountaintogfields utilizin
Terraced rice ainterrsteep valley

Environment
education and naturewatching event withchildren

Blessings of
Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Bungo-ono City

Photo: Hinokage Town

Canyoning at
Fujikawachi
ValleyPhoto: Nobeoka City

With its stunning granite cliffs, Mount Okue becomesadorned with Akebono azaleas every spring.

In winter, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range
turns into a silent, silver world coveredin glistening frost and snow.

The great purple emperor, an endangered species,
is characterized by its vivid coloring and has been
designated the national butterfly of Japan.

Found on mountainsides at altitudes above 1,000m,
this species is peculiar to Kyushu and enjoyed bymany hill climbers in spring.

City

Photo: Takachiho Town

Photo: Saiki CityBamboo work,
one of the mainindustries

The best quality
Japanese star anisein the country

Photo: Nobeoka City

Round
watershed built todivide precious
water evenly
Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Takeda City

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2~Steep mountains and deep valleys~~Wide range of vegetation and rare species~~Protecting and nurturing precious nature for future generations~

Famous for its steep mountainous terrain and magnificent ridgelines, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range has a complex topography and geology, including undulating rocky peaks,
precipitous cliffs, and a network of gorges running through valleys, creating a unique andseasonally changing landscape that delights all who visit.

There are still many natural forests at high altitude in the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, where a wide
range of vegetation from warm temperate to cool temperature can be found depending on the mountain height.
It is a precious area, home to many rare plants and animals with limited areas to live such as the Japaneseserow, a special natural monument, and the so-called Sohayaki group of plants, said to reveal the origins of theJapanese archipelago. These rare species are endangered so we need to protect their habitat environment.

To conserve the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and leave it for future
generations, we try to protect our precious native forests and also conduct tree-planting and otherproper forest functionality improvement measures, ecosystem surveys, wildlife damage prevention
measures, river environmental improvement measures, and so on.

~Respecting nature and handing down received tradition to
the next generation~Iwa
en from Tengu
se
o
b
o
S
t
n
u
o
o)
M
chih
-ono, Takago
(Takeda, Bun*Sohayaki plants: Endemic species distributed evenly over the mountainous regions of Kii Province, Shikoku andKyushu, the areas of the Japanese archipelago that have been dry land the longest.

alley
Kawakami V

row
Japanese se(Bungo-ono)aKirengeshom.
getation, etc
Surveying ve
untain areas
in remote mo

Fireflies along
the restored
Hakusan River

Since ancient times, people in this region have been grateful for the produce of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range with which they closely interact in the course of their daily lives, and have performed
kagura dances and lion dances at festivals to pray for their harvest and their safety. To this day, they retain
this respect for nature and are taking steps to pass their traditions on to future generations.

o.33,
Yo Kagura N
ce offering
all-night dan

Handing down
folk customs tochildrenPhoto: Takeda-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Oita Bungo-ono Geopark Promotion Council

With its sharp ridgeline and sheer rock face,
the ruggedly shaped Mount Sobo evokes awe among
the people of the region.

uki
Mount Katam
okage)-ono, Hin

(Saiki, Bungo

Covered in lush green during the summer,
Kawakami Valley has been selected as one of thehundred best places for forest bathing.

(Hinokage)

Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Bungo-ono Natural History Society

Famous for its strangely shaped rocks and clear
streams, Mitate Valley becomes brilliantly coloredin autumn as its trees change color.

An endemic salamander living only in the streams of
the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, it was
described as a new species in 2014.

Photo: Takashi Ichinose

The name “Katamuki” means “tilting”, and was given
to this mountain because it tilts toward Mount Sobo.
Its special feature is its magnificent rocky peak.

(Wakuzuka)
Mount Okue
(Nobeoka)

A government designated special natural monument, theJapanese serow is an endemic Japanese species. There
are fears that it will become extinct in the Kyushu region.

nder
Sobo salama

Mitate Valleykiount Katamu
M
d
e
p
p
a
c
w
Sno
Hinokage)-ono,

Tree thinningto maintain thefunctionality offorests

Photo: Shusei Hirano

Great purple

emperor(Saiki, Bungo

The sohayaki-group plant has a characteristic yellow
trumpet-shaped flower. It is an endangered species.

se beech
Giant Japane

Photo: Takeshi Oda

There is a vertical distribution of various kinds of vegetation in
the remote areas of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range,
where this Giant Japanese beech tree can also be found.

ono azaleab
Tsukushi ake

Ohito Kabuki,
the only village
kabuki in
KyushuPhoto: Takachiho Town

Photo: Hinoka

ge Town

Photo: Nobeo

ka City~Feeling and learning about nature and conveying its
importance to future generations~~Utilizing what nature provides and handing down a
traditional way of life to future generations~

In order to present the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range to the next generationand convey the importance of their conservation, we carry out education and training on symbiosis. The
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue region is also a famous mountain climbing spot, and in order to communicate
its appeal to people outside the area we are vigorously promoting eco-tourism, canyoning andbouldering, nature experiences that utilize the natural environment.

In the challenging natural environment of this steep terrain, residents have accumulated theknowledge and skills to make the most of what nature provides. Previously, the region prospered asa leading mining area of Japan, and various industries such as agriculture, forestry and bamboo work
have continuously been handed down. Nowadays, it is one of the country’s main producing areas ofitems such as timber, shiitake mushrooms, and Japanese star anise used in Buddhist services.

bingountain-clim
m
e
th
f
o
rt
Sta
ount Sobo
season at M
p Festival)(Mountaintogfields utilizin
Terraced rice ainterrsteep valley

Environment
education and naturewatching event withchildren

Blessings of
Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Bungo-ono City

Photo: Hinokage Town

Canyoning at
Fujikawachi
ValleyPhoto: Nobeoka City

With its stunning granite cliffs, Mount Okue becomesadorned with Akebono azaleas every spring.

In winter, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range
turns into a silent, silver world coveredin glistening frost and snow.

The great purple emperor, an endangered species,
is characterized by its vivid coloring and has been
designated the national butterfly of Japan.

Found on mountainsides at altitudes above 1,000m,
this species is peculiar to Kyushu and enjoyed bymany hill climbers in spring.

City

Photo: Takachiho Town

Photo: Saiki CityBamboo work,
one of the mainindustries

The best quality
Japanese star anisein the country

Photo: Nobeoka City

Round
watershed built todivide precious
water evenly
Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Takeda City

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Natural Features of SoboKatamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 1

Symbiosis between Nature and People
in Sobo-Katamuki-Okue Mountain Range 2~Steep mountains and deep valleys~~Wide range of vegetation and rare species~~Protecting and nurturing precious nature for future generations~

Famous for its steep mountainous terrain and magnificent ridgelines, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range has a complex topography and geology, including undulating rocky peaks,
precipitous cliffs, and a network of gorges running through valleys, creating a unique andseasonally changing landscape that delights all who visit.

There are still many natural forests at high altitude in the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, where a wide
range of vegetation from warm temperate to cool temperature can be found depending on the mountain height.
It is a precious area, home to many rare plants and animals with limited areas to live such as the Japaneseserow, a special natural monument, and the so-called Sohayaki group of plants, said to reveal the origins of theJapanese archipelago. These rare species are endangered so we need to protect their habitat environment.

To conserve the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and leave it for future
generations, we try to protect our precious native forests and also conduct tree-planting and otherproper forest functionality improvement measures, ecosystem surveys, wildlife damage prevention
measures, river environmental improvement measures, and so on.

~Respecting nature and handing down received tradition to
the next generation~Iwa
en from Tengu
se
o
b
o
S
t
n
u
o
o)
M
chih
-ono, Takago
(Takeda, Bun*Sohayaki plants: Endemic species distributed evenly over the mountainous regions of Kii Province, Shikoku andKyushu, the areas of the Japanese archipelago that have been dry land the longest.

alley
Kawakami V

row
Japanese se(Bungo-ono)aKirengeshom.
getation, etc
Surveying ve
untain areas
in remote mo

Fireflies along
the restored
Hakusan River

Since ancient times, people in this region have been grateful for the produce of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range with which they closely interact in the course of their daily lives, and have performed
kagura dances and lion dances at festivals to pray for their harvest and their safety. To this day, they retain
this respect for nature and are taking steps to pass their traditions on to future generations.

o.33,
Yo Kagura N
ce offering
all-night dan

Handing down
folk customs tochildrenPhoto: Takeda-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Oita Bungo-ono Geopark Promotion Council

With its sharp ridgeline and sheer rock face,
the ruggedly shaped Mount Sobo evokes awe among
the people of the region.

uki
Mount Katam
okage)-ono, Hin

(Saiki, Bungo

Covered in lush green during the summer,
Kawakami Valley has been selected as one of thehundred best places for forest bathing.

(Hinokage)

Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Bungo-ono Natural History Society

Famous for its strangely shaped rocks and clear
streams, Mitate Valley becomes brilliantly coloredin autumn as its trees change color.

An endemic salamander living only in the streams of
the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range, it was
described as a new species in 2014.

Photo: Takashi Ichinose

The name “Katamuki” means “tilting”, and was given
to this mountain because it tilts toward Mount Sobo.
Its special feature is its magnificent rocky peak.

(Wakuzuka)
Mount Okue
(Nobeoka)

A government designated special natural monument, theJapanese serow is an endemic Japanese species. There
are fears that it will become extinct in the Kyushu region.

nder
Sobo salama

Mitate Valleykiount Katamu
M
d
e
p
p
a
c
w
Sno
Hinokage)-ono,

Tree thinningto maintain thefunctionality offorests

Photo: Shusei Hirano

Great purple

emperor(Saiki, Bungo

The sohayaki-group plant has a characteristic yellow
trumpet-shaped flower. It is an endangered species.

se beech
Giant Japane

Photo: Takeshi Oda

There is a vertical distribution of various kinds of vegetation in
the remote areas of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range,
where this Giant Japanese beech tree can also be found.

ono azaleab
Tsukushi ake

Ohito Kabuki,
the only village
kabuki in
KyushuPhoto: Takachiho Town

Photo: Hinoka

ge Town

Photo: Nobeo

ka City~Feeling and learning about nature and conveying its
importance to future generations~~Utilizing what nature provides and handing down a
traditional way of life to future generations~

In order to present the rich nature of the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range to the next generationand convey the importance of their conservation, we carry out education and training on symbiosis. The
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue region is also a famous mountain climbing spot, and in order to communicate
its appeal to people outside the area we are vigorously promoting eco-tourism, canyoning andbouldering, nature experiences that utilize the natural environment.

In the challenging natural environment of this steep terrain, residents have accumulated theknowledge and skills to make the most of what nature provides. Previously, the region prospered asa leading mining area of Japan, and various industries such as agriculture, forestry and bamboo work
have continuously been handed down. Nowadays, it is one of the country’s main producing areas ofitems such as timber, shiitake mushrooms, and Japanese star anise used in Buddhist services.

bingountain-clim
m
e
th
f
o
rt
Sta
ount Sobo
season at M
p Festival)(Mountaintogfields utilizin
Terraced rice ainterrsteep valley

Environment
education and naturewatching event withchildren

Blessings of
Sobo-Katamuki-Okue
mountain range-ono City

Photo: Bungo

Photo: Bungo-ono City

Photo: Hinokage Town

Canyoning at
Fujikawachi
ValleyPhoto: Nobeoka City

With its stunning granite cliffs, Mount Okue becomesadorned with Akebono azaleas every spring.

In winter, the Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range
turns into a silent, silver world coveredin glistening frost and snow.

The great purple emperor, an endangered species,
is characterized by its vivid coloring and has been
designated the national butterfly of Japan.

Found on mountainsides at altitudes above 1,000m,
this species is peculiar to Kyushu and enjoyed bymany hill climbers in spring.

City

Photo: Takachiho Town

Photo: Saiki CityBamboo work,
one of the mainindustries

The best quality
Japanese star anisein the country

Photo: Nobeoka City

Round
watershed built todivide precious
water evenly
Photo: Hinokage Town

Photo: Takeda City

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve
The Sobo-Katamuki-Okue mountain range and surrounding area straddling Oita and Miyazaki Prefectures hasdeveloped a diverse and precious ecosystem with its unique natural beauty and distinctive topography and geology.
The people living in the region have long respected and protected this rich nature while making good use of thebounty it offers.
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere Reserve
Zoning map▶

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve system

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue
Biosphere Reserve’s Measures

What are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves?
Official name: Biosphere Reserves

Principles behind activities of Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are a business launched by UNESCO in
1976 for the purpose of balancing the conservation and sustainable use of
ecosystems.
While the World Heritage system in principle protects unspoiled nature,
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves aim for symbiosis between nature andhuman society.
A total of 669 regions from 120 countries are registered (as of June 2017).

Handing down the forests, waters and way of life nurturedby the peaks and valleys to future generations~Holding nature in awe~
Having received UNESCO registration, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve aims tohand down to the next generation the rich natural environment of the region as well as the way of lifeof the people who have accomplished its development while revering nature.

HigashBungo-onoRegistered in Japan: 9 regions (as of June 2017)

502

57

Saiki
Mount Sobo

10

ssway

326

Basic policy 2
Support for academic research, surveys and training

Hinokage
Classification

Area (ha)Core regions

1,580

Buffer regions

17,748Transition regions

224,344

Total Biosphere Reserve

243,672

Nobeoka218

Areaclassification
10

Core regions
Buffer regions
Transition
regions

The prefectural and municipal map was created by the Sobo
Katamuki Biosphere Reserve Oita and Miyazaki Promotion
Council based on MILT’s “National Land Numerical Information(Administrative Area Data)” (2015). (http://nlftp.mlit.go.jp/ksj/)
The background map was created using a Geographical Survey
Institute tile (color elevation map) from the Geographical Survey
Institute. (The ocean areas were created using materials of theJapan Coast Guard’s Ocean Information Bureau.)(http://www.gsi.go.jp/)

Features of Sobo Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Steep mountainous terrain
and beautiful valleys

Wide range of vegetation
and rare species

Three functions and regions
Preservation
function

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve

Mount Okue

Takachiho(1) Enhance conservation functions by promoting
research surveys(2) Promote conservation activities to be done by
local residents

u ExpreMount Katamuki

MiyazakiPrefecture

Basic policy 1
Continuous conservation of precious ecosystem

i-KyushTakedaConservation and useof abundant nature(1) Promote research surveys by constructing an
academic research system(2) Promote ESD in coordination with communities(3) Contribute as a model for solving issues inJapan and overseas(Conservation of biodiversity)
Being an important region forpreserving biodiversity, including
ecosystems representative of
biological geographical zones
where there is some humanintervention

Basic policy 3
Sustainable development through symbiosis with nature(1) Develop the region through continuous use in
keeping with the times(2) Secure and develop the bearers of the next
generation

History of the Promotion Council
August 2016
National recommendations
determined(Japanese National
Commission for UNESCO, MAB
planning subcommittee)

June 2017
Registration decided(UNESCO MAB planninginternational coordination
board of directors)

September 2017
Sobo, Katamuki andOkue Biosphere
Reserve Promotion
Council established

Inquiries: Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

The region offers unique scenic beauty,
including rocky ridges from volcanic
activity in every direction, and magnificent
cliffs and beautiful low hill valleys that
capture the attention of visitors.

Home to a wide range of vegetation as
well as rare animal species such as theJapanese serow and the Sobo
salamander, the region is a biologicaltreasure trove.

Local residents carry out nature
conservation activities and sustainable
use of natural resources (agriculture,
forestry and tourism) while revering
nature.

Oita office: Oita Prefecture, Living Environment Department, Nature Conservation Promotion Office Tel: 097-536-1111 (switchboard)
Miyazaki office: Miyazaki Prefecture, General Policy Department, Hilly and Mountainous Areas Policy Division Tel: 0985-26-7035 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Saiki City, Regional Development Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Nobeoka City, Management Policy Division
Tel: 0972-22-3486 (direct)
Tel: 0982-22-7074 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Takeda City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division
Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Town, Finance Division, General Policy OfficeTel: 0974-63-4807 (direct)
Tel: 0982-73-1260 (direct)
Oita Prefecture, Bungo-ono City, Trade, Industry and Tourism Division Miyazaki Prefecture, Hinokage Town, Regional Development Division
Tel: 0974-22-1001 (switchboard)
Tel: 0982-87-3910 (direct)
More detailed information is available on our website!
Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council website
http://sobokatamuki-br-council.org/

Academic
research support

Economic andsocial development

Providing places for surveys,
research, education andtraining for the sake ofsustainable development

Taking measures that can be amodel in Japan and overseas forsustainable development inharmony with natural environment
conservation

These are not independent functions but have a relationship in which UNESCO Biosphere Reserves reinforce one another.
To fulfill these three functions, we have established three regions.

In order to fully carry out its three functions, the Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve works
closely with related organizations to implement measures in line with the above basic policies.

February 2015
Sobo Katamuki UNESCO
Biosphere Reserve Oita
and Miyazaki Promotion
Council establishedSymbiosis

Mount Haku (Ishikawa Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Fukui Prefecture), Odaigahara, Mount
Omine and Osugidani (Mie Prefecture, Nara Prefecture), Shiga Highlands (Nagano Prefecture, Gunma
Prefecture), Yakushima and Kuchinoerabu-jima (Kagoshima Prefecture), Aya (Miyazaki Prefecture), Minami-Alps(Yamanashi Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture), Tadami (Fukushima Prefecture), Sobo,
Katamuki and Okue (Oita Prefecture, Miyazaki Prefecture), Minakami (Gunma Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture)

Basic action policies
Oita
Prefecture

Nature ＝ People

Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve Promotion Council

Core regions

Buffer regions

Transition regions

Regions in which the naturalenvironment must be strictly
protected

Regions that act as a cushion
between core and transition
regions to protect core regions
from human activity

Regions that aim forsustainable development suchas human habitation,
environmentally friendly
industrial activity, etc.