Shiretoko Ecotourism Strategy(Provisional Translation)

Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site
Joint Committee on Appropriate Use and Ecotourism

March 2013

Shiretoko Ecotourism Strategy: Contents
1. Introduction...............................................................................................................................................1
2. Purposes of the Strategy............................................................................................................................1
3. Current Situation and Challenges..............................................................................................................2(1) Current Situation and History of Tourism and Ecotourism(2) Current Challenges(3) Expected Challenges
4. Existing Laws, Systems, and Rules...........................................................................................................3
5. Basic Policies.............................................................................................................................................4(1) Basic Principles(2) Required Perspectives in Promoting Tourism Use Including Ecotourism
6. Targets of the Strategy…...........................................................................................................................7(1) Strategy Target Areas(2) Strategy Target Activities
7. Values of Shiretoko That Should Be Protected.........................................................................................7(1) Values of Nature(2) Values of Human-Nature Relations(3) Values Obtained from Extraordinary Experiences
8. Future Goals...............................................................................................................................................9(1) Conservation of Natural Environment in the Property and Enhancement of its Values(2) Offering High-Quality Nature Experiences that are Specific to Shiretoko to International Tourists(3) Establishment of Sustainable Local Communities and Economy
9. Implementing Measures.............................................................................................................................9(1) Use control(2) Making Rules to Comply with and Due Instructions(3) Dissemination of Relevant Information(4) Training Guides and Encouraging Guided Tours(5) Utilization of Cultural Assets, etc.
(6) Return of Profits(7) Maintenance of Facilities(8) Monitoring
10. Implementing System of the Strategy....................................................................................................11(1) Policy-Making Procedures Regarding Tourism Use Including Ecotourism(2) Structure and Operation of the Joint Committee
11. Review Method and Period....................................................................................................................13

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1. Introduction
Based on the Management Plan for Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site, the Shiretoko Ecotourism
Strategy will be the basic policy regarding tourism use including ecotourism in Shiretoko, in coordination,
collaboration, and agreement with all stakeholders of Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site (hereinafterreferred to as ‘Property’). Tourism use of Shiretoko will be conducted based on the Strategy and all
stakeholders are required to adhere to what is agreed upon in the discussions.

Shiretoko Peninsula is a habitat for rare species such as Blakiston's fish-owl (Ketupa blakistoni
blakistoni), Viola kitamiana, and so on, and is also an important area for salmonids, marine mammals
such as Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) and whales, seabirds, and migratory birds. In addition, it has
been highly evaluated and inscribed on the World Heritage List, since its marine productivity is high due
to nutrient salts brought about by sea ice and the ecosystems of sea areas and land areas are closely
related to each other.

The natural environment in the Property is blessed with values that are unparalleled in the world and its
conservation is an important issue. However, these values of the natural environment need to be shared bymany people. In fact, the Property and its neighboring areas are visited by approximately 1.8 million
tourists, mountain-climbers, anglers, sea kayakers, and so on every year, and they enjoy ecotourism andsight-seeing.

However, since its main use style is passing-by tourism by mass-tourism, tourism use in Shiretoko has
been focusing on specific natural scenic spots, causing traffic jams, trampling of vegetation, conflicts withbrown bears (Ursus arctos), and other issues. In addition, while the boom at the time of world heritage
inscription has passed by, which has led to a decrease in the number of tourists to Shiretoko, the numberof foreign tourists has been increasing. Furthermore, the tourism style is shifting from passing-by tourism
to tailored tourism for individual and group tourists. Therefore, it is required to respond to diverse needs
through programs and services to be provided.

One of the factors behind this challenge is lack of a basic policy and agreements regarding tourism use of
the Property including ecotourism. In order to respond to these challenges and changes, it is necessary forthe community as a whole to promote a method of tourism use that enables both conservation and moreenjoyment of primeval nature in the Property, as well as measures to make tourists enjoy and learn about
nature in much deeper ways, based on the Strategy.

2. Purposes of the Strategy
The Strategy aims to make all stakeholders inside and outside the Property share the common future goals

1and a method to achieve the goals through local initiatives, in order to conserve the natural environment
and to enhance its values, to provide tourists with high-quality nature experiences that are specific to
Shiretoko, and to establish a sustainable local community and economy, by promoting tourism use of
Shiretoko including ecotourism.

3. Current Situation and Challenges(1) Current Situation and History of Tourism and Ecotourism
The actual tourism use of Shiretoko started in 1964 when it was designated as a National Park. The
number of tourists to Shiretoko increased by the Shiretoko boom, through a hit of ‘Shiretoko Ryojo (apopular Japanese song about travelling to Shiretoko)’, the opening of Shiretoko Crossroad, and the issueof deforestation of Natural Forests, and so on. The Shiretoko Crossroad, a nature conservation movementon the deforestation issue of natural forests, and its later development became nationwide hot issues,
which has had an impact on the creation of Shiretoko’s image. Most of the tourists to Shiretoko were fromoutside Hokkaido even in those days. Many tourists used fixed-routed buses and chartered buses until the
1970s, while private cars became popular in the 1980s.

Shiretoko was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2005, and now approximately 1.8 million tourists
visit the Property and its neighboring areas every year (as of 2010). In recent years, experience-typetourism use, such as climbing, trekking, sea kayak and whale watching, has been increasing, resulting indiverse use forms of the Property. However, the main tourism use has been focused on short-term visits to
Shiretoko-Goko Lakes, Frepe Waterfall, and Shiretoko Pass, as well as tourist sightseeing ships in the sea
off Utoro.

The original form of ecotourism was observed in the customer services that youth hostels provided totheir guests in the late 1970s. Later on, the Shiretoko Nature Foundation actively started interpretationand guidance on nature. In the 2000s, guide businesses increased in earnest and eco tours have been
implemented in Shiretoko-Goko Lakes, Lake Rausu, Frepe Waterfall, Ponhoro Swamp, and so on. In
addition, various sightseeing ships are operated, including ones from Rausu Port for whale/bird-watching
and from Utoro Port for watching wildlife such as brown bears.

From 2001, as an initiative for ecotourism, various stakeholders, such as the Kushiro Nature Conservation
Office of the Ministry of the Environment, Shari Town and Rausu Town, started to consider appropriate
use of Shiretoko National Park and prepared a basic plan and rules for its utilization, etc. In 2004, theShiretoko Ecotourism Association was established by local relevant organizations and the Shiretoko
Nature Guide Association was established by local guide operators.

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In 2010, the Kushiro Nature Conservation Office of the Ministry of the Environment, Hokkaido Regional
Forest Office of the Forestry Agency, and Hokkaido Prefectural Government established ‘Joint
Committee on Appropriate Use and Ecotourism (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Joint Committee’)comprising experts, relevant administrative organizations, and local organizations, for the purpose of
integrating former activities as well as consider the promotion of ecotourism, etc.

(2) Current Challenges
Concentration of tourism use on specific period of time and areas
Lack of an integrated basic policy and means of reaching agreements regarding tourism use
including ecotourism
Optimization of vehicle use and establishment of traffic system considering the environment
Establishment of, and public awareness on, the way of dealing with wildlife such as brown bears,
birds of prey, and so on
Public awareness on rules and manners, patrols to control violations, and establishment of an
instruction system
Human waste treatment, soil erosion, and devastation of vegetation on trails, etc.
Responses to diversified needs of tourism use and to multi-languages for increasing foreign
tourists
Improvement of hospitality and eco tour rates in the entire community
Occurrence of accidents in the apical areas and mountainous areas, marine disasters, incidents bybrown bears, and so on(3) Expected Challenges
Decrease of tourists due to population decrease, the traffic system, changes in values andperspectives, and so on
Changes in tourism resources due to environmental changes, such as decrease of sea ice becauseof climate change
Shortage of human resources for ecotourism due to population decrease in local communities
Impacts on wildlife with the expansion of the period and areas of tourism use
Increase in troubles between tourists and brown bears

4. Existing Laws, Systems, and Rules
In terms of sharing information on existing laws, systems and self-imposed rules with relevant
stakeholders, as well as promoting tourism use including ecotourism, it is necessary to carefully consider
the consistency with them. Appendix 2 shows those main laws, systems and rules.

35. Basic Policies(1) Basic Principles
Tourism use, including ecotourism, in Shiretoko will be promoted on the basis of the following threeprinciples.
Conservation of the natural environment in the Property and enhancement of its values
Offering high-quality nature experiences that are specific to Shiretoko to international tourists
Establishment of sustainable local communities and economy(2) Required Perspectives in Promoting Tourism Use Including Ecotourism
Local initiatives, autonomy, sustainability
In order to conserve the natural environment in the Property and establish a sustainable local
community and economy, it is desirable for local stakeholders that have lived in Shiretoko andutilized its nature to spontaneously make commitment to the promotion of tourism use through thelocal initiatives.

Vis-a-vis local initiatives, relevant administrative organizations will provide integrated support tothem, in close coordination among themselves, through the operation of laws, systems and respective
projects.

In addition, when tourism use including ecotourism is promoted, it is also necessary to makesustainable contributions to the local community and its economy through efforts such as increasing
repeaters through raising their satisfaction and procuring services from the local community, etc.

Sharing, collaboration, coordination, and network
When tourism use, including ecotourism, is promoted in Shiretoko, it is necessary for diverse actors
to coordinate and collaborate, in order to examine plans, make rules, manage and control, and provide
high-quality nature experiences to tourists. Especially in Shiretoko, where guided tours are active andplay important roles in proving high-quality nature experiences and conserving the naturalenvironment, it is important to train guides and to coordinate and collaborate with guide business
operators. In addition, since operators of sightseeing ships and sea kayaks also play similar roles, it isrequired for the land areas and the sea areas to coordinate with each other for both use andconservation.

Stakeholders will ensure close coordination and information sharing, by utilizing the Joint Committee
and the network of volunteers across the country.

4Conserving the natural environment
In order to conserve the natural environment, tourism use will be limited within the environmental
capacity of natural ecosystems. For this end, characteristics such as vulnerability of ecosystems in
respective areas and utilization conditions including the number of tourists will be fully considered to
examine concrete measures to be taken.

Tourism use must not have a significant impact on natural ecosystems, such as shrinking of habitatsof wildlife, reduction of their reproductive rates, changes in their living environments by being used
to humans, and decrease of habitats for alpine plants. Specific types of tourism use particularly inwetlands and alpine zones where the restoration of vegetation is difficult and those targeting rare
species such as Blakiston's fish-owl should be considered carefully, since these types of tourism use
could have a significant impact on ecosystems even if the number of participants is small. Therefore,
it is needed to establish relevant rules based on both local agreements and experts’ knowledge, and to
set utilization systems based on relevant laws. In addition, in order to maintain the primeval
characteristics of the Property, limiting development of facilities and setting the period of use andnumber of users will be considered. Meanwhile, it is also important to scatter and diversify tourism
use, for the purpose of preventing any impacts that the concentration of excessive tourism use might
have on the natural environment.

Promoting public understanding on natural ecosystems
It is important to raise public awareness on the natural values of Shiretoko, mechanisms of its
ecosystems, and ecologies of wildlife, through the utilization of guides, for providing high-quality
nature experiences. The promotion of understanding on the natural ecosystems will enable the public
to know relevant rules that are required in coming in contact with nature, as well as to enhance theirawareness of the conservation of the natural environment.

Shiretoko is one of the rare and precious areas in Japan in which the primeval natural environment isconserved, and effective public awareness activities could be implemented. In addition, it is expectedthat opportunities are offered so that visitors can challenge primeval nature by themselves and realize
and feel its remarkable values.

Respecting local cultures and historical backgrounds
Since ancient times in Shiretoko, Ainu people have lived with their own livelihoods such as hunting,fishing, plant collection, etc. and have nurtured their own culture in which they valued rich nature andworshiped Blakiston's fish-owls, brown bears, killer whales (Orcinus orca), and so on, as their Kamuy(divine being in Ainu mythology). In addition, management of fishing grounds started in the 19th

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century, which developed into the current diverse forms of fishery. With regard to promoting tourism
use including ecotourism, these cultural and historical backgrounds that have been developed incontact with nature will be taken into full consideration. Appropriate consideration is especiallyneeded for fishing activities.

Self-responsibility and sharing of management responsibilities
Principles in accessing the natural environment include understanding possible risks that exist within
the natural environment, taking actions based on our own judgements, and taking responsibilities forany accidents or damages as a result. Since this principle of self-responsibility has led to proper
tourism use and enabled diverse forms of tourism, it is necessary to actively raise awareness of
tourists.

With regard to promoting eco tours, it is necessary to inform tourists of full information regarding
safety and risks as well as to provide them with due preparation for their security in advance,
according to types of eco tours that are implemented.

When any accident takes place due to defects of facilities, those who manage the facilities will bear
the responsibility. When a higher level of management is required due to an increase of tourists, notonly will those who manage the facilities bear heavier responsibilities, but relevant administrative
organizations may also be required to take responsibility for any accidents that are caused even by
natural substances other than facilities. In such cases where heavier responsibilities are expected, it isnecessary for those who promote tourism to share management responsibilities in order to expand
effective management and use opportunities.

Enhancing the values of the Shiretoko Brand
Shiretoko is a natural World Heritage. In addition to this, it is an area where natural conservation has
been carried out since ancient times. There are many Shiretoko lovers around the country, and many
tourists visit Shiretoko because they are attracted by Shiretoko’s brand as a natural World Heritage. It
will be possible to connect economy and environment in a positive circle, by promoting tourism use
in a way to raise the values of the Shiretoko Brand including the Property and its neighboring areas,such as an introduction of a mechanism enabling part of the profits that are obtained from tourism use
to be returned to the local nature and society, etc.

Some products, such as fishery products, have already established their own brand values. It is
required to raise the Shiretoko Brand as a whole, without undermining individual brand values, interms of the production of agricultural and fishery products as well as consolidation of social

6infrastructure, etc.

Practicing adaptive management
With regard to promoting tourism use including ecotourism, relevant administrative organizations andthose who promote tourism use will conduct the monitoring of possible impacts that tourism use may
have on the natural environment as well as tourists’ satisfaction, etc. The Joint Committee will assess
and, according to the monitoring results, review methods of utilization and management.

6. Targets of the Strategy(1) Strategy Target Areas
Target areas include the Property and areas where tourism use may have an impact on the naturalenvironment of the Property.

(2) Strategy Target Activities
Tourism use including ecotourism that is the target of the Strategy refers to all sightseeing and natureexperience activities in which tourists enter the target areas.

7. Values of Shiretoko That Should Be Protected(1) Values of Nature
In Shiretoko, tourists can observe and feel the unique ecosystems, where nature in rich sea areas
represented by sea ice in the southern limit of the northern hemisphere and nature in primeval land
areas that are left in an integrated way from sea coasts to alpine zones circulate in turn through rivers
and wildlife. In addition, the diversity of fauna and flora, as well as the way of living of large-size
wildlife and rare species, are precious values of ecotourism that can be observed only in Shiretoko.
Here are some representative examples.
Activities and natural beauty of the earth that can be observed in complicated and steep
geographical features made by volcanic activities and erosions, a number of waterfalls, hotsprings, and fumaroles, etc.
Vertical distribution of diverse vegetation from shallow seas to ridgelines, unique coastal plants,
wetland plants, and alpine plants, including endemic species and threatened species
Rich marine biota in the south boundary of northern hemisphere sea ice where many species live,
including phytoplankton and zooplankton, seaweeds, fishes, seabirds, pinnipeds, and whales.
The observed species are varied from sea angels (Clione) to sperm whales (Physeter
macrocephalus)
Rivers where life cycles can be observed through natural spawning by chum salmon(Oncorhynchus keta), pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), and Dolly Varden (Salvelinus

7malma)The primeval fauna supported by fertile seas, rivers, and forests, the natural fauna, and large-size
wildlife and rare species such as the brown bear, sika deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis), white-tailed
eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), and Blakiston's fish-owl(2) Values of Human-Nature Relations
In Shiretoko, human culture and livelihoods that have been nurtured by nature exist and are still
active. The value of Shiretoko lies in the numerous ancient ruins that have been left to inform us of
how people lived in the past. In addition, it is also one of the values of Shiretoko that relevant
activities have been continuing to nurture and utilize the existing natural environment blessed by its
nature. Here are some representative examples.
Ruins of pit dwellings in each period of time since the Jomon Era and remnants of old buildingssuch as the Chashi Ruins that have remained across Shiretoko Peninsula, and names of places andfolklore that tell us about Ainu Culture
Remnants of buildings and assets of the modernization period that have existed in the remaining
sites of agricultural development and mine development, and that inform us of the history ofpeople’s activities during the modern period
Stationary trap net fishery that are arranged with Shiretoko mountain range in the background,fish-luring torches that light up straits, scenery of fishery activities at fishermen’s lodge andfishing ports, and interactions with people who coexist with nature
The activities of the “Shiretoko 100 Square-Meter Movement” that seeks to regain original
ecosystems through civic participation, initiatives to promote coexistence with wildlife such as
brown bears, and activities to protect rare species(3) Values Obtained from Extraordinary Experiences
Shiretoko, originating from ‘Shirietoku’ in the Ainu language meaning a tip of the land, is one of therare areas in the country where there remains a frontier of primeval nature which has refused to be
developed and utilized, due to its rough and precipitous natural features. Its unique atmosphere andexperiences obtained from visiting there are also precious values for ecotourism unique to Shiretoko.
Here are some representative examples.
Tranquility, solitude, and a sense of mystery that are obtained from a wide space of nature without
people, artificial substances, and artificial light
A sense of achievement and attainment that visitors are able to obtain from entering deep natureand challenging their own competencies
A sort of tension and a sense of life that visitors are able to obtain from the existence of brown
bears with a high density

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Exotic atmosphere of the Okhotsk area that has a resemblance to nature relating to the Kuril
Islands and Kamchatka that is different from other Japanese main Islands

8. Future Goals(1) Conservation of Natural Environment in the Property and Enhancement of its Values
All tourism use will be limited within the environmental capacity of the natural ecosystems.
Ratios of ecotourism based on the Strategy will be improved.

(2) Offering High-Quality Nature Experiences that are Specific to Shiretoko to International Tourists
The number of repeaters will be increased by enhancing tourist satisfaction.
The types and number of eco tours utilizing the natural environment that is unique to Shiretoko
will be improved.

(3) Establishment of Sustainable Local Communities and Economy
In addition to increasing locally initiated eco tours, local procurement of services will be
increased to enhance local consumption.
The number of eco tours that introduce a redistribution mechanism of profits will be increased.

9. Implementing Measures(1) Use control
Setting the utilization systems based on relevant laws and controlling the use through relevant rules
will be done, according to purposes, such as the conservation of the natural environment, ensuring
tourist security, maintenance of primeval nature, enhancement of added values, and so on. It isenvisaged to include various measures, such as the guidance of a small number of users by limiting
the number and access, the guidance to specific users by obligating prior application and notification
as well as guide accompaniment, limiting areas and the period of time in which tourism use ispermitted, the introduction of a shuttle bus system, etc. When use control is implemented, it will beeasy to obtain information from tourists.

(2) Making Rules to Comply with and Due Instructions
Rules will be made for tourists as well as for those who promote tourism use such as tour planners
and guides to comply with, according to purposes such as the conservation of the natural environment,
ensuring tourist safety, consideration for local culture and lives, etc. In particular, with regard to theuse of the vulnerable natural environment, due rules need to be made on the basis of expert
knowledge in accordance with local consensus. It is necessary that relevant administrative
organizations coordinate among themselves to establish patrolling and instructing systems, as well as

9to obtain cooperation from guide operators and so on, to make the rules be complied. In addition,
since compliance of the rules will lead to good quality nature experiences, it is required that theestablished rules be widely opened and conveyed to the public, and that stakeholders will confirm
compliance of the rules.

(3) Dissemination of Relevant Information
For the purpose of increasing locally initiated eco tours and announcing relevant rules to comply with,the dissemination of information will be conducted towards tourists and the media, etc. Whendisseminating information, value enhancement of the Shiretoko Brand will be taken into
consideration. Some examples include active dissemination about the consideration for natural
ecosystems in eco tours, disseminating information by integrating logos and images, and so on. In
addition, the level of satisfaction and the ratio of local consumption will be enhanced, by sharing theinformation on activities between the Shari Town side and Rausu Town side of Shiretoko, as well as
between land areas and sea areas, and by disseminating information of Shiretoko as a whole.
Meanwhile, since foreign tourists are increasing, the dissemination of information needs to be done inmulti-languages, including English, etc.

(4) Training Guides and Encouraging Guided Tours
By training and recommending guides, various services offered to tourists, including good-quality
nature experiences that are unique to Shiretoko and information dissemination regarding local
cultures and industries, are expected to be enhanced. Furthermore, multifaceted effects can also be
expected, such as the conservation of the natural environment through instructions regarding how tointeract with wildlife, how to prevent tourists from losing their steps on walkways, as well as the
management of the Property through accident prevention, patrolling and collecting information, andso on. It is important to promote public understanding of natural ecosystems, by utilizing the primeval
natural environment in Shiretoko, and by promoting the values of nature, its mechanisms, thesignificance of its conservation, etc. In order to enhance tourist satisfaction, ideals and rules should bemade familiar to them, and the knowledge and techniques of guides need to be enhanced.

(5) Utilization of Cultural Assets, etc.
Shiretoko features a history of our ancestors living based on various livelihood activities. Remnants
relating to Ainu culture, modern coalmine development, and post-war development, as well as oldhouses still remain, and many historical documents have been conserved with regard to the post-war
development and settlement, etc. In addition, especially on the Rausu side, many residents seasonallysettled at fishermen’s lodges across the tip of the Peninsula for kelp gathering. These cultural assets
will be used for diversifying and scattering tourism use. In addition, it is necessary to consider the10

establishment of eco tours in coordination with industries such as agriculture and fishery, and theimplementation of volunteering activities by tourists as well. Meanwhile, when the cultural assets are
utilized and introduced, their conservation needs to be considered.

(6) Return of Profits
A mechanism will be considered to return the profits obtained from tourism use to local nature andsociety, for the purpose of conservation of the natural environment and enhancement of brand value.
In addition to direct return of profits, other types of return, such as the transfer of knowledge andinformation, the promotion of information dissemination, and so on, are also encouraged.

(7) Maintenance of Facilities
Bearing appropriate use in mind, standards of management and maintenance will be considered to
conduct the necessary maintenance of facilities. Annual plans will be set for maintenance that is to be
implemented according to the plans. When preparing maintenance plans, sustainable management
systems will also be established. The maintenance of facilities will be promoted to take measures for
ensuring safety, to implement management activities, to announce relevant information, to scattertourism use, to conserve and restore the natural environment, to optimize traffic access, and so on.
Meanwhile, it is necessary to restore, conserve, and utilize unused facilities.

(8) Monitoring
In order to carry out adaptive management, relevant administrative organizations and those who
promote tourism use will conduct monitoring as to impacts on the natural environment that tourists
may cause such as trampling on vegetation, tourist satisfaction and comments, their needs andbehavioral changes, etc. Not only survey methods but also inspection methods and systems need to beconsidered.

10. Implementing System of the Strategy(1) Policy-Making Procedures Regarding Tourism Use Including Ecotourism
Mechanism regarding suggestions to and approvals from the Joint Committee
Anyone can freely make proposals, such as starting new tourism use in Shiretoko, preparing newrules, and so on, at the Joint Committee. As for contents of suggestions, they need to be approved
twice, at the time of proposal and the time of decision, in the Joint Committee. When the content at
the time of proposal is approved, the proposer organizes an examination group to examine the details.
The results of this examination will then be re-approved at the Joint Committee. Suggested contents
will be examined in terms of whether or not they are in line with the direction of the Strategy and the
purposes, as well as whether or not the members of the examination group are appropriate. At the11time of decision, detailed results of the consideration in the examination group will be evaluated andre-judged as to whether or not they are prepared for the future purposes of the Strategy, as well as
whether or not they are in accordance with the planned contents corresponding to the basic policies.
When making proposals at a Joint Committee, preliminary consultations may be carried out at the city
offices of Shari town and Rausu town as to the validity of suggested contents, necessary procedures,and so on.

Establishment of Examination GroupThe examination group needs to include all related local organizations that bear relevance to the
proposed contents. It is also desirable for those who have no direct interest, such as members of theAppropriate Use and Ecotourism Working Group to participate as observers, etc., to ensure fairjudgements.

Respect for proposals that are approved in the Joint Committee
In order to appropriately promote suggestions that are approved in the Joint Committee, relevant
administrative organizations will provide assistance through the operation of laws, systems, various
projects, and so on. As for related local organizations, they are requested to cooperate in terms of thepromotion of tourism use approved by the Joint Committee, as well as the compliance with rules, etc.

Coordination system with various legal systems and other plans
A Joint Committee may not approve any suggestions that deviate from existing laws, etc. or any
suggestions that lack consideration for practices carried out by existing activities. Representatives ofadministrative organizations in charge of related laws and implementing bodies of existing activities
are required to explain the purport and contents of laws, etc. and practices at the Joint Committee.

(2) Structure and Operation of the Joint Committee
The Joint Committee comprises experts (Appropriate Use and Ecotourism Working Group, Shiretoko
Natural World Heritage Site Scientific Council), related local organizations and relevant
administrative organizations (Appropriate Use and Ecotourism Subcommittee, Shiretoko Natural
World Heritage Site Regional Liaison Committee), and the Secretariat (Appendix 4).

As to the advisability of an approval for a given suggestion in the Joint Committee, both related localorganizations and relevant administrative organizations will make a decision. However, expert advice
from scientific perspectives should be respected at the Joint Committee. The chair of the Joint
Committee will be selected from experts.

1211. Review Method and Period
Reviews of the Strategy will be conducted for every 10 years in general, based on the status of
tourism use including ecotourism based on the Strategy, respective monitoring results, changes insocial environment, and so on. Assessments and reviews will be implemented at the Joint Committee.

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Shiretoko Ecotourism Strategy AppendicesContents
Appendix 1: Historical Developments Regarding Tourism Use and Ecotourism
Appendix 2: Summary of Existing Laws and Systems(1) Main Laws and Systems Regarding Conservation of the Natural Environment
and Fishery Resources(2) Main Laws and Systems Regarding Tourism and Ecotourism(3) Main Laws and Systems Regarding Use of Facilities, and so on(4) Voluntary Rules Regarding the Property(5) Map of Protected Areas
Appendix 3: Existing Plans Regarding Appropriate Use and Ecotourism(1) Basic Concept for Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park
(2) Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Apical Region of the Shiretoko
Peninsula in Shiretoko National Park
(3) Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Central Region of the Shiretoko
Peninsula in Shiretoko National Park
(4) Plan for Appropriate Use of the Utilization Management Zone in
Shiretoko-Goko Lakes(5) Shiretoko Ecotourism Promotion Plan
(6) Shiretoko Ecotourism Promotion Implementation Plan
Appendix 4: Joint Committee Members
Appendix 5: Ideas Regarding Solutions for Respective Issues(1) Apical Region(2) Central Region(3) Sea Areas(4) Neighboring Areas(5) Entire PeninsulaAppendix 1
Historical Developments Regarding Tourism Use and Ecotourism
Before and after the designation as Shiretoko National Park
1952

Development of Mt. Rausu Trail (Iwaobetsu-Mt. Rausu)

1953

Development of Mt. Rausu Trail (Rausu hot spring-Mt. Rausu)

1958

Start of bus operation after the opening of the Prefectural Highway Utoro-Shari Line1960

Development of the traverse route (Rausudaira-Mt. Iou)

Early 1960s

Since the roadways up to the trailhead were not sufficiently maintained, only alimited number of mountain lovers challenged Mt. Rausu.
The number of climbers increased, since the roadways were paved, a hotel was built
at the trailhead, a mountain lodge was transferred, and it was designated as the
National Park in 1964 and its name became famous as one of the untrodden
mountains across the country.

1960s to 1970s

Main tourists were young people such as students. Since this era, characteristics
became tourists from outside Hokkaido (60%) and summer-season tourism (fromJune to September: 88%). Transport means that the tourists used were mainly
fixed-routed buses and chartered buses until 1970, while private cars started toincrease from the early 1970s. In 1973, bus users accounted for 73% and private car
users were 24%.

1962

Commencement of the construction work for Shiretoko Forest Road (Opening in
1969)

1963

Commencement of the construction work for the Development Road Utoro-Rausu
Line (Shiretoko Crossroad)

1964

Designation as Shiretoko National Park
Shiretoko Peninsula round sightseeing ships went into service

1966

Appointed National Park Manager in Rausu
Completion of Shiretoko-Goko Lakes walking trails

1967

Development of Mt. Iou Trail (Shiretoko Forest Road-Mt. Iou-Rausudaira)Development of Rausu Lake Trail (Mt. Rausu Trail-Rausu Lake)
The All Japan Mountaineering Sports Festival, with the aim of ‘safe climbing andconservation of nature at the central highland of Shiretoko Peninsula blessed bynature that is untrodden and unexplored’, was organized in main courses such as Mt.
Rausu-Mt. Iou ranges. Approximately 600 executive members and players
participated. This triggered attraction of climbers.
The ‘Rest House’ was completed halfway up the Sightseeing Tower called‘Bokyo-dai’.

1970

Shiretoko Museum was opened

The 1st Shiretoko Boom1971

A hit of the song ‘Shiretoko Ryojo’ by the singer Tokiko KATO, and the tourism
boom

1974

Establishment of the “Shiretoko Charter” by Shari Town and Rausu Town for the
10th anniversary of Shiretoko National Park

1977

For

the

purposeofprotecting

theabandoned

agricultural

lands

from

overdevelopment and restoring forests, the ‘Shiretoko 100 Square-Meter Movement’started by the initiatives of local residents and governments.
1978

Opening of Shari Town Shiretoko Museum
Completion of the open-air hot spring ‘Kuma no Yu’

1979

Initiation of various nature observation sessions by Shari Town Shiretoko Museum

Late 1970s

In addition to inter-high school athlete competitions across Hokkaido and-1980sneighboring district competitions being successively held, including the use of
traverse routes of mountain ranges and Mt. Iou, there were various forms of use suchas high school out-school training, town residents mountain climbing associations,and training camps for climbing societies and mountain trekking of universities, etc.
The number of climbers also steadily increased, because of increases in individual
tours and arranged tours by travel companies.

1980

The issue of Shiretoko conservation (Shiretoko Crossroad and National Forest
logging plan) and its later development became a nationwide hot issue, with aneffect of widely disseminating the values and attractions of Shiretoko. The image ofShiretoko as a place where ‘primeval nature exists and is conserved’ wasestablished.

The 2nd Shiretoko Boom
1980

Opening of Shiretoko Crossroad
The number of users of the National Park increased to around 2.4 million persons,by the open of the Shiretoko Crossroad (National Road No. 334) that connects thetwo towns. The use of private cars became mainstream, and hotels in Utoro that used
to close mainly during the winter season started to operate throughout the year.
Designation of Onnebetsudake Wilderness Area

1982

Designation of Shiretoko National Wildlife Protection Area

1983

Opening of Rausu Visitors Center

1984

Limit the entrance in the entire district of Shiretoko Cape for recreation purposes, bythe ‘Mutual Agreement Regarding An Instruction for Use Regulations in Shiretoko
Cape District’The 3rd Shiretoko Boom1986

The issue of logging of Shiretoko National Forest was covered by national media

1988

Opening of Shiretoko National Park Nature Center

1990

Designation of Vessel Exclusion Zone for the entry of horses and vehicles including
snow mobiles in Shiretoko National Park
Designation of Shiretoko Forest Ecosystem Reserve

1991

Opening of Shiretoko National Park Administration Office in Utoro

1993

Started a survey regarding the World Heritage in the Department of Environmental
Conservation, Shari Town

1994

Taking an opportunity of the 30th anniversary since the designation of Shiretoko
National Park, Rausu Town and Shari Town started to consider their initiatives forinscription on the World Heritage List

1997

The achievement of the goal amount of donations by the ‘Shiretoko 100
Square-Meter Movement’ and the start of a new movement ‘100 Square-Meter
Forest Movement Trust’

1999

Start of regulations of private cars between Shiretoko-Goko Lakes and Kamuiwakka
Opening of the Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Rest Areas) ‘Shiretoko Rausu’Late 1990s

Numerous climbers visited Mt. Rausu thanks to the booms of 100 Famous JapaneseMountains as well as guided climbing

2001

The Committee on the Basic Concept for Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National
Park was established (and transferred to the Committee on the Promotion ofAppropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park in 2004)
Charging parking fees started for Shiretoko-Goko Lakes

2002

The Shiretoko World Heritage Inscription Promotion Council of Rausu Town wasestablished2003

The All Hokkaido Interactive Climbing Festival of the Hokkaido Mountaineering
Federation was held, where many climbers participated from all Hokkaido
The Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Candidate Site Regional Liaison Committee
was established (currently the Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site Regional
Liaison Committee).

2004

The Japanese Government submitted the nomination documents ofShiretoko to

UNESCO for inscription on the World Heritage List
Shari Town and Rausu Town applied for ecotourism model projects by the Ministryof the Environment
The Shiretoko Nature Guide Association was established
The Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Candidate Site Scientific Council wasestablished (currently the Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site Scientific Council)
The Shiretoko Ecotourism Association was launchedThe Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Candidate Site Management Plan wasformulated
The Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Apical Region of the Shiretoko Peninsulain Shiretoko National Park was formulated

Inscription of Shiretoko on the World Heritage List
2005

Shiretoko was inscribed on the World Heritage List
The Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Central Region of Shiretoko Peninsula inShiretoko National Park was formulatedMore than 10,000 climbers visited Shiretoko
The Shiretoko Ecotourism Association formulated the Shiretoko Ecotourism
Promotion Plan
The marine areas of Shiretoko National Park were expanded from 1 km to 3 km of
the coast
Commencement of construction of the elevated wooden footpaths of theShiretoko-Goko Lakes

2006

Opening of the Hokkaido Prefectural Road Shiretoko Park Rausu-Tenguiwa Tunnel
The number of visitors to the Michi-no-Eki “Shiretoko Rausu” exceeded 1 million
Requested visitors to voluntarily refrain from entering the Apical Region of theShiretoko PeninsulaStarted shipboard eco tours (experiences to observe fishery, etc.) off the coast of
Rausu

2007

Opening of the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage & Shiretoko National Park Rausu
Visitor Center
The Shiretoko Ecotourism Association formulated the Shiretoko Ecotourism
Guidelines
The Multiple Use Integrated Marine Management Plan for Shiretoko World Natural
Heritage was formulated
Opening of the Michi-no-Eki ‘Utoro Shirietoku’ and ‘Shari’
The renewal of JR Shiretoko Shari Station (renovation of the station building andnew construction of the tourism center)
The Shiretoko Ecotourism Association formulated the Shiretoko Ecotourism
Promotion Implementation Plan

2008

The Shiretoko Rausu Tourism Association signed an agreement with Sapporo
International University for tourism promotion
A decision was adopted regarding the conservation state of Shiretoko in the 32nd
meeting of the World Heritage Committee
Points of Consideration and Prohibited Activities in the Use of the Apical Region ofShiretoko Peninsula, Shiretoko National Park was formulated
Commencement of winter season trial use for Shiretoko-Goko Lakes
2009

Opening of the Shiretoko World Heritage Center in Utoro
Opening of Rusa Field House in Rusa area
The Management Plan for Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site was formulated by
the Ministry of the Environment, Forestry Agency, Agency for Cultural Affairs, andHokkaido Prefectural Government
The Points of Consideration and Prohibited Activities in the Use of the Central
Regio nf the Shiretoko Peninsula, Shiretoko National Park was formulated
The number of users of the Michi-no-Eki ‘Utoro Shirietoku’ exceeded 1 million

2010

The Committee on the Promotion of Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park
was transferred to the Joint Committee on Appropriate Use and Ecotourism for
Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site
Opening of the elevated wooden paths (the entire length of 800 m up to Lake Ikko)
of the Shiretoko-Goko Lakes
The number of users of the Shiretoko World Heritage Center and Rausu Visitor
Center exceeded 100,000

2011

The operation of the Utilization Management Zone System started in
Shiretoko-Goko Lakes
Opening of the Shiretoko-Goko Lakes Field House and the Park Service Center
Opening of Rausu Museum
The re-start of use of Kamuiwakka-Mt. Iou Trailhead by a trial operation of road
special use system

2012

The Policy for the Protection and Management of Brown Bears in Shiretoko
Peninsula was formulated

Appendix 2

Summary of Existing Laws and Systems(1) Main Laws and Systems Regarding Conservation of the Natural Environment and Fishery Resources(i) Nature Conservation Act- Onnebetsudake Wilderness Area
A “Wilderness Area” is a zone of the land that maintains wilderness without impacts caused byhuman activities and possesses a certain integrity. The Minister of the Environment designates andmanages those areas where conservation of the natural environment is especially needed as
Wilderness Areas based on “Nature Conservation Act”. With regard to this zone, theneighborhood of Mt. Onnebetsu was excluded from Shiretoko National Park and was designatedas “Onnebetsudake Wilderness Area” in 1980. In the Wilderness Area, any activities that may
cause impacts on the conservation of the natural environment in this site, such as: constructing,reconstructing, or expanding buildings or other structures; capturing animals and collecting plants;
collecting fallen branches; and setting or making bonfires, and so on, are prohibited. This excludes
special cases such as academic research purposes.
*Related Use Forms: (2)(ii) Natural Parks Act- Shiretoko National Park
A “National Park” protects excellent natural scenic areas and contributes to public health,recreation, edification through promoting utilization, and conservation of biological diversity
thereof. The Minister of the Environment designates and manages the area based on the “Natural
Parks Act”. The entire area that was designated as “Shiretoko National Park” in 1964 was includedin the World Heritage property. The following respective areas are designated based on protective
regulatory plans for National Parks and various activities are regulated according to this zonal
classification. The “Special Zone” is an important area for the protection and use of the park, andrequires permission from the Minister of the Environment for such activities as constructing,reconstructing, or expanding buildings or other structures, and felling trees or bamboo, etc. The“Special Protection Zone” is an area to strictly protect core parts of the park, and is more strictly
protected thorough the requirement of permission from the Minister of the Environment in terms
of: constructing, reconstructing, or expanding buildings or other structures; felling trees orbamboo; capturing animals and collecting plants; collecting fallen leaves and branches; setting or
making bonfires, and so on. The “Ordinary Zone” requires notification to the Minister of theEnvironment for such activities as land reclamation, and so on. In addition, pedestrian walkways**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingand visitor centers have been established on the basis of facility use plans for National Parks toconserve the natural environment and promote its proper use.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2)- Utilization Management Zone for Shiretoko-Goko Lakes
A “Utilization Management Zone” is a limited area to use as a park and is designated within theSpecial Zone, on the basis of park plans to maintain scenic beauty and landscapes of Natural
Parks into the future, in addition to the promotion of their appropriate Use. In cases where park
users enter the designated zone, park users are required to obtain permission from the Minister ofthe Environment or any relevant organizations that are authorized by the Minister of theEnvironment. It is a system that was established by the revision of the Natural Parks Act in 2002.
Meanwhile, park plans are roughly categorized into regulatory plans and facility plans, focusing
on use aspects and protection aspects respectively. The Utilization Management Zone ispositioned as a “Use Regulation Plan”. Other than this, the “Use Regulation Plan” includes“Optimization of Private Car Use (‘My Car’ Regulation)” that regulates the use of automobiles
within parks, etc. This system was introduced in Shiretoko-Goko Lakes in 2011.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2)(iii) Laws Regarding Control Management of National Forests- Forest Ecosystem Reserve
The purposes of a “Forest Ecosystem Reserve” include the maintenance of natural environment
comprising forest ecosystems, the protection of flora and fauna, conservation of genetic resources,development of forest maintenance and management techniques, contribution to academic
research, through conserving areas where primeval natural forests representing Japanese forest
zones exist in considerable quantity. A Forest Ecosystem Reserve is an area that is defined andmanaged by “Guidelines for Establishment and Administration of Protected Forests” on the basisof the “National Forests Administration and Management Bylaw” that stipulates details regarding
the formulation of plans for concrete control management according to areas, in a process where
the Forestry Agency manages National Forests according to plans based on the “Act on the
Administration and Management of National Forest”. Based on this system, central areas of
Shiretoko Peninsula were set as the “Shiretoko Forest Ecosystem Reserve” in 1990, and was
expanded further to the neighborhood of Mt. Onnebetsu that is the west side of Shiretoko
Crossroad in 2004.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2)**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishing

(iv) Forest Act- Conservation Forest
A “Conservation Forest” is a forest conservation system based on the Forest Act, whereby either
the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries or the Governor of the prefecture designates
forests that are necessary for specific public purposes such as water catchment, preventing
disasters including landslides, conserving living environments, and so on. In Conservation Forests,
forest owners are obligated to execute acts of omission and commission, for the purpose of
securing conservation functions by its conservation and the implementation of proper maintenance.
On the other hand, relevant measures are undertaken, such as tax exemptions, and so on,
according to the degree of restriction on private rights.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2)(v) Wildlife Protectionand Hunting Management Act- Shiretoko National Wildlife Protection Area, Shiretoko Special Protection Zone
A “National Wildlife Protection Area” is an area that is designated by the Minister of theEnvironment based on the “Wildlife Protection and Hunting Management Act”, with regard tozones that are regarded as important for protecting wildlife from international and national
perspectives to protect wildlife. Both Shiretoko National Wildlife Protection Area and Shiretoko
Special Protection Zone that were designated in 1982 based on this law overlap with the World
Heritage property. In addition to “Wildlife Protection Areas” in which hunting is prohibited,
important areas for reproduction are designated as “Special Protection Zones” where a certain
level of development activities are regulated. As zonal areas that required more protection control,
part of the Special Protection Zone (Rusha area) has been designated as a “Special Protection
Designated Zone”. In the “Special Protection Designated Zone”, activities such as collecting
plants other than wood and bamboo, capturing animals, collecting fallen leaves and branches,taking dogs and other animals that may be harmful to other wildlife, photographing, recording,and so on, are prohibited.
*Related Use Forms: (2)(vi) Act on Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora- National Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora“National Endangered Species” are endangered species of wild fauna and flora that live or growin the country, and are specified by government ordinances based on the “Act on Conservation ofEndangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora”. Among animals living in the World Heritage
property, birds such as the Blakiston's fish-owl (Ketupa blakistoni blakistoni), Steller's sea eagle**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishing(Haliaeetus pelagicus), white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), and so on, are designated as
National Endangered Species, and it is prohibited to capture, kill or wound, transfer, etc. these
species.
*Related Use Forms: (2) (5)(vii) Act on Protection of Cultural Properties, Hokkaido Cultural Properties Protection Regulation- Natural Monument
A “Natural Monument” is designated by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science andTechnology, on the basis of “Act on Protection of Cultural Properties”, for the purpose ofconserving important flora and fauna, including their habitats, breeding sites, places of origin andnatural habitats, as well as minerals, including sites of the land where unique natural phenomena
take place, among the ones that are regarded as academically highly valuable in our country.
Among animals living in the World Heritage property, birds such as the Blakiston's fish-owl(Ketupa blakistoni blakistoni), Steller's sea eagle, black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), and soon, and one type of insect (Vaciniina optilete) have been designated as Natural Monuments. Whenan action is to be carried out that will change the status of a Natural Monument or cause an impact
on its conservation, permission shall to be obtained from the Director General of the Agency for
Cultural Affairs. In the World Heritage property, “Rausu Geyzer Hot Spring” is designated as a“Prefectural Natural Monument” by Hokkaido Prefecture, based on the “Hokkaido Cultural
Properties Protection Ordinance”. When an action is to be carried out that will change its status orcause an impact on its conservation, it is required to obtain the permission from the Hokkaido
Board of Education.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2) (5)(viii) Fishery Act, Act on the Protection of Fishery Resources, Act on Preservation and Control of
Living Marine Resources- Regulation of Sea Fisheries Adjustment in Hokkaido, Regulation of Inland Fisheries Adjustment
in Hokkaido
As for fishery resources, fishermen and fishery associations have autonomously initiated to
manage the resources, to regulate the use of resources, and to control proliferation of resources,
etc., in addition to various regulations such as the “Fishery Act”, “Regulation of Sea Fisheries
Adjustment in Hokkaido” and “Regulation of Inland Fisheries Adjustment in Hokkaido” on thebasis of the “Act on the Protection of Fishery Resources”. As for chum salmon (Oncorhynchusketa) and pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) that are major marine resources in Shiretoko
Peninsula, fishing inside the sea and inland waters is regulated based on these relevant laws.
**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingAs to walleye pollocks (Gadus chalcogrammus), the maximum figures that are allowed forfishing are set every year to control the fishing quantity, on the basis of the “Act on Preservation
and Control of Living Marine Resources”. In addition to this, fishermen and fishery associations
have spontaneously undertaken resources management by utilizing various surveys, etc.
*Related Use Forms: (5)(ix) License System for Boat Fishing of Autumn Salmon
In the marine area, mainly in Utoro area of Shari Town, boat fishing of autumn salmon became
popular and the number of leisure anglers increased. Along with this, there were concerns about
impacts on resources of autumn salmon, troubles in fishing grounds and fishery ports, maritime
accidents, and so on. Therefore, according to the direction by the committee, since 1989, boatfishing of autumn salmon has been completely prohibited in specific sea areas and during specificperiods, and only those who are approved by the committee are allowed to conduct boat fishing ofautumn salmon, for the purpose of coordinating leisure fishing and the fishery industry as well as
establishing the order for leisure fishing and rules for anglers. The committee refers to Abashiri
Sea Zone Fishery Coordination Committee, an organization that was established on the basis of
the Fishery Act and deals with fishery related matters mainly in zones of either Abashiri Sea Zoneor sea areas.
*Related Use Forms: (5)(ix) Shari Town Anti-Littering OrdinanceThis ordinance aims, by prohibiting littering behavior, at conserving natural landscapes of theShiretoko World Heritage property and promoting the beautification of the local environments, toenhance the living environments for the town’s residents. Littering refers to behavior such as
abandoning or leaving, without due cause or reason, empty cans, including empty cans, empty
bottles, plastic bottles, other containers that include their substances and caps, wrapping papers,
cigarette ends, residues of chewing gum, paper waste, plastic bags, dog and cat mess, fish thatwere caught and their remnants, human waste and toilet paper.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)(2) Main Laws and Systems Regarding Tourism and Ecotourism(i) Ecotourism Promotion Act
The Ministry of the Environment established the Ecotourism Promotion Council in 2003 toconsider relevant measures to promote the dissemination and establishment of ecotourism. One of**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingthose measures was the “Ecotourism Promotion Model Project” whereby related ministries
including the Ministry of the Environment provide assistance to initiatives dealing with ecotourism
promotion by utilizing characteristics of model districts. Shiretoko was selected as animplementing district, and the model project was implemented during the three years from 2004 to
2006.

The “Ecotourism Promotion Act”, which came into force in 2008, is a law to set a comprehensive
framework to promote appropriate ecotourism considering the conservation of the local naturalenvironment and utilizing local creativity, and has been under the responsibilities of the Minister ofthe Environment, the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transportation, the Minister ofAgriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science andTechnology.

This law enables municipalities to organize committees and those committees to prepare overall
concepts for ecotourism promotion as well as to promote ecotourism. In addition, municipalities
are able to apply for the authorization of their overall concepts from responsible ministers, andauthorized overall concepts shall be disseminated by the Government of Japan and taken into
consideration for various permissions. Furthermore, municipalities are able to designate specificnatural tourism resources that need to be protected based on the overall concepts, which enables
prohibiting stains and damages, limiting the number of users, and so on.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)(ii) Act on Promotion of Tourists’ Visits and Stays through Development of Tourism Areas- Shiretoko Tourism Areas
A ‘Tourism Area’ refers to an integrated area combining touristic sites that are closely related innature, history, culture, and so on. It is an area where those touristic sites collaborate among
themselves to be able to respond to stay-type tourism for more than two nights and three days andto intend to enhance their attractions as touristic destinations. It is certified by the Minister ofLand, Infrastructure, and Transportation. Certified tourism areas are able to receive
comprehensive assistance, such as subsidies from the Government, for projects to enhance thetourism areas that are positioned in the plan. Respective projects to enhance tourism areas include
relevant projects, such as development of experience-type programs, enhancement of thesecondary transportation, improvement of attractions of accommodation facilities, strengtheningof dissemination of tourism information, and so on. The “Shiretoko Tourism Area” was certified
in 2009, where the four towns in the neighborhood of Shiretoko Peninsula collaborate and aim at**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingrealizing coexistence between the natural environment that has been registered as a World
Heritage and tourism, as well as realizing a tourism area comprising various types of tourism suchas nature experience and stay throughout the year.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)(3) Main Laws and Systems Regarding Use of Facilities, and so on(i) Road Traffic Act
This law was issued to enhance the road networks, to contribute to the traffic development, and topromote public welfare, by stipulating relevant matters relating to specification and certification ofroutes, management, structures, and conservation of those routes, classifications of cost burdens,
and so on. Other than road managers, those who conduct construction work relating to a given roadby self-expenses, as well as those who set some facilities on the road and use the road for aconsecutive period of time, including temporary tents, shop signboards, banner-flags, sunshades,
and so on, shall apply to and be certified by the road managers (the Minister of Land, Infrastructure,
and Transportation, Hokkaido Prefectural Government, or designated cities and municipalities).

In addition, it is decided that passing by the road is prohibited or restricted by defining sections, inorder for the road managers to conserve road structures or avoid traffic risks. However, with regard
to the use of closed sections (Kamuiwakka-Mt. Iou Trailhead) of the Hokkaido Shiretoko Park Line,
only climbers who understand the risks of fallen stones during a period of time from June to
September and submit a “Special Use Application for the Closed Sections” are allowed to enter onfoot. Other than this, as for the use of and passing by roads during the winter period in which roads
are closed, it shall be possible on foot and on skis and snowshoes, for the purpose of rescue
activities for human lives at the time of disasters and any emergency, management activities ofagriculture, forestry, and fisheries, local promotion, tourism promotion, and social education, taking
application procedures according to stipulations in administrative regulations regarding road use
during the winter period in closed sections in Shari Town.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2)(ii) Road Traffic Act
It was established to aim at preventing traffic risks, securing traffic safety and smooth movements,
and contributing to the prevention of any obstacles caused by road traffic.

When the Prefectural Public Safety Commission recognizes the necessity for the above purposes, it
may install traffic signs or road signs and manage them, according to what is stipulated by relevant**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingordinances, for the purpose of traffic control, prohibiting pedestrians or vehicles from passing by,
and other kinds of traffic regulations.

As for Hokkaido Prefectural Road Shiretoko Park Line (Shiretoko-Goko Lakes-Kamuiwakka), theconstruction work to prevent rockfalls was completed in FY2010. Currently, the Hokkaido Kitami
District Public Safety Commission has been implementing regulations to stop traffic movements oflarge size vehicles, since there are roads with steep slopes and weak shoulders, as well as narrowroads and bridges. During congested periods, including the 1st-25th of August and the 15th-24th of
September, people can use the road only in the daytime and on shuttle buses.

In addition, those who install certain facilities on the road and use the road for a consecutive periodof time, such as temporary tents, shop signboards and sunshades, etc. shall make an application to
the road managers and apply for “road use permission” from the head of the police station in
charge of the district and gain approval accordingly.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2)(iii) Road Transportation Act
The purposes of the Road Transportation Law include promoting the appropriate and reasonable
operation of road transportation businesses, securing transportation safety, protecting benefits ofroad transportation users, and comprehensive development of road transportation. The law
provides for businesses involving passenger transportation such as taxis and buses, as well as
automobile road businesses such as toll roads, etc. As to free-of-charge transportation for pick-ups
that accommodation facilities and specific business operators listed in the Ecotourism Promotion
Law provide to their guests and tour participants, an official notice of 2011 clarifies the scope ofbusinesses not requiring permission for passenger transportation businesses that are stipulated in
the Road Transportation Law.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (Business contents according to specific business operators)(iv) Act on Development of Fishing Ports and Grounds, Hokkaido Prefectural Decree on Managementof Fishing Ports
Based on the “Act on Development of Fishing Ports and Grounds”, the Hokkaido Prefectural
Government as the managing authority of fishing ports shall establish the “Hokkaido Prefectural
Ordinance on Management of Fishing Ports”, and according to this decree, conduct proper
maintenance, conservation, and operation of fishing ports, and maintain and manage other fishingports, in addition to conducting necessary research and study and preparing statistical material for**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingthe development of fishing ports. Fishing ports per se are built as the base for fisheries toaccommodate fishing ships that are used for fishing productive activities. However, according tostipulations in “Hokkaido Prefectural Ordinance on Management of Fishing Ports”, the use ofpleasure boats is allowed in some fishing ports, within a permissible scope that there are no
impacts on fishing productive activities. When a pleasure boat, etc. uses a fishing port, it isrequired to obtain permission from the head of the municipality that the fishing port is located in.
Vessels that are able to use fishing ports with permission, other than fishing vessels, include motor
boats, engine-driven yachts, leisure boats, sightseeing ships, power rubber boats, and vessels forconstruction work, and such vessels must be those that have undergone vessel inspection and havereceived a certificate and documents proving completion of inspection. Note that vessels that are
not allowed to use fishing ports, in principle, include water auto-bicycles, row boats, non-poweredrubber boats, canoes, sea kayaks, and small size vessels with a length of less than three meters andwith an engine output smaller than 1.5 kilowatts.
*Related Use Forms: (3) (4) (5)(v) Seacoast Act
Those who are responsible for seacoast management shall designate “Seacoast Conservation
Zones”, based on the Seacoast Law, to protect seacoasts from damages such as seacoastencroachment, etc. In “Seacoast Conservation Zones”, relevant facilities to protect the coast shallbe installed, including levees, breakwaters, revetments, parapet walls, buffers, etc. In addition,
permission must be obtained from seacoast managers when any facilities or workpieces other thanseacoast protection facilities are installed and the given Seacoast Conservation Zone is occupied.
In the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Site, Seacoast Conservation Zones have been designatedin Rausu Town as well as in Shari Town.
*Related Use Forms: (3) (4) (5)(vi) Food Sanitation Act
It aims at preventing sanitary damages caused by food and drink, and thereby protecting national
health, through establishing necessary regulations and other measures with regard to publicsanitation for securing food safety. It stipulates sanitation issues regarding food and drink,covering food items, additives, equipment, containers and wrapping, etc. Those who wish to run
food businesses such as restaurants that have a significant impact on public sanitation need toapply for permission from local governments, etc. In principle, even when providing anunspecified large number of people with food items by arranging simple facilities at temples’
events and festivals, a food business permit is required. As to any events for a short-term period**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingwith public purposes, such as residential festivals and bazaars at industrial festivals, normal
business permits are not required, but notifications need to be submitted to responsible healthcenters. Some health centers provide guidance to those who operate businesses.
*Related Use Forms: (1)(4) Voluntary Rules Regarding the Property(i) The Ministry of the Environment Kushiro Nature Conservation Office- Points of Consideration for Use of the Central Region of the Shiretoko Peninsula
Since negative impacts that excessive and concentrated use have had on natural environments
started to be apparent in some centers of use in the central area of Shiretoko Peninsula, relevant
manners were compiled to conserve Shiretoko and pass it to the next generations in a sustainable
and positive way.
*Related Use Forms: (1) (2) (5)- Points of Consideration for Use of the Apical Region of the Shiretoko Peninsula
Issues to be noted and prohibited points were defined with regard to nature conservation andmitigating risks for those who enter the apical area for coastal trekking use, shore kayaking use,
use of mountaineering clubs, and use of salmon and sea trout fishing at the mouth of the river on
the coast, as well as regarding the use of sea areas by power vessels.
*Related Use Forms: (2) (3) (4) (5)(ii) Shiretoko Ecotourism Association- Shiretoko Ecotourism Guidelines
It was formulated to make common rules that shall be complied by nature guides and guide
operators, to maintain and enhance the quality of guides by sharing the rules in local communities,
to recommend the implementation of guided tours that have taken measures towards safety
management and conservation of the natural environment, and to attract the attention of generalusers.
*Related Use Forms: (2)(iii) Shari Forest Service Station, Shibetsu Forest Service Station, Abashiri Coast Guard Security
Headquarter Department, Rausu Coast Guard Security Headquarter Department, Abashiri
Sub-Prefecture Office, Nemuro Sub-Prefecture office, Shari Town, Rausu Town, Utoro Fishery
Cooperative Association, Shiretoko National Park Administration Office- Mutual Agreement Regarding An Instructions for Use Regulations in Shiretoko Cape District**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingIt was established to control the entrance of visitors for recreation purposes, in order to conserve
the natural landscape of the entire area of Shiretoko Cape, which is a habitat for precious plantcommunities and various wildlife.
*Related Use Forms: (3)(iv) Shiretoko Nature Guide Association- Shiretoko Local Rules “ Sea Ice (Ryuhyo)”
These rules were made for guide operators that conduct nature experience tours utilizing sea ice,in order to continue valuable experiences of sea ice and to prevent accidents caused by sea ice.
*Related Use Forms: (4)- Shiretoko-Goko Lakes Guidelines
Relevant matters that will be kept in mind by guides who currently use Shiretoko-Goko Lakes
were compiled, including activities at plan stages, before taking strolls, and within walkways
when guiding in Shiretoko-Goko Lakes.
*Related Use Forms: (2)(v) Rausu Recreational Fishing Association- Self-imposed Rules
In Rausu Sea, which is designated as a National Park and inscribed on the World Heritage List,
not only related laws and regulations but relevant rules were also made to prevent maritime
accidents and conserve resources and the environment, for the purpose of respecting the spirit of
the “Basic Plan for Proper Use of the Apical Region of Shiretoko Peninsula” and providing soundand orderly recreational fishing that is unique to Shiretoko in a sustainable way.
*Related Use Forms: (5)(vi) Shiretoko Rausu Sightseeing Ship Association- Self-imposed Rules for Wildlife Watching
Off the shore of Rausu Town of Shiretoko that is a World Heritage Site, in the sea of Nemuro
Strait of the offshore of Shibetsu Town, and off the shore of Shiretoko Cape, various types of
tourism, such as ship tours to watch sea ice and wildlife that appear in the sea, outdoor learning,as well as supporting activities for photographing and collecting data and academic research havebeen conducted. Regarding the safety and security of both the Association’s members who are
consigned to work on those activities and the users as the first priority, these rules were made withthe aim of seeking ideal ways and practices to promote these local activities and their coexistence**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishingwith the conservation of wildlife that are objects of watching and observation.
*Related Use Forms: (3)**Related Use Form Signs:(1) Sightseeing tours, (2) climbing and trekking, (3) tourism and exploration using power boats, (4) sea kayaks andsea ice walking, etc. and (5) fishing(5) Map of Protected Areas

Ｎ
Ｗ

Shiretoko Natural World Heritage BoundaryＥ

Area AＳ

Area B
Shiretoko National Park
Onnebetsu Wilderness Area

Shiretoko Cape

National Wildlife Protection Area

Bunkichi Bay

Prefectural Wildlife Protection Area
Forest Ecosystem Reserve(Exclusion)

Mt. Shiretoko▲

Shiretoko Swamp

Rusha River
Aidomari

Shiretoko-goko Lakes

Utoro

Mt. Iou▲

Rusa River

Mt. Rausu▲
Shiretoko Pass
Mt. Chinishibetsu▲

Rausu
Lake Rausu

Mt. Onnebetsu
▲

0

5

10

20km

Appendix 3
Existing Plans Regarding Appropriate Use and Ecotourism
Basic Concept for Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park

Formulated in JFY2001

Committee on the Basic Concept for Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park
[Summary]
In terms of desirable balance between the conservation and use of Shiretoko National Park (appropriateuse), the Committee on the Basic Concept for Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park was formed,
comprising academic experts, related local organizations, and relevant administrative organizations.
Based on the following issues, it was suggested that respective areas prepare their own basic plans on
appropriate use.
- Basic Philosophy
When using Shiretoko National Park, the basic philosophy will be an understanding that we visit thearea that is home to brown bears (Ursus arctos). This philosophy is based on humbleness, awe andreverence toward nature in Shiretoko that is symbolized by brown bears.
- Premises based on the Basic Philosophy
Sustainable conservation of diverse ecosystems that are formed by a highly primeval naturallandscape and abundant wildlife observed only in Shiretoko- Basic Policy
In primeval natural environments, opportunities for nature experiences will be provided in an
appropriate and sustainable manner under certain rules.

Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Apical Region of the

Formulated in December 2004

Shiretoko Peninsula in Shiretoko National Park
Committee on the Promotion of Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park
[Summary]
This plan was formulated to conserve highly primeval natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems in an
appropriate manner in the apical region of the Shiretoko Peninsula, by defining the way that it should be
for appropriate use, (basic policies and directions to deal with different use types), rules to be compliedwith (adjustment of use and points of consideration for use), management operation, and so on, thereby
avoiding any damages that users may cause on the sustainable conservation of scenic beauty andecosystems.

Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Central Region of the

Formulated in September 2005

Shiretoko Peninsula in Shiretoko National Park
Committee on the Promotion of Appropriate Use of Shiretoko National Park
[Summary]
This plan was formulated to appropriately conserve good nature landscapes and diverse ecosystems, tooffer better nature experiences to users, and to pass the nature in the central region of the Shiretoko
Peninsula to the next generations, by defining the way that it should be for the appropriate use (basic
policies and directions to deal with different use types), rules to be complied with (control of use andpoints of consideration for use), management operation, and so on, thereby achieving appropriate use.
Implementation Plan for Appropriate Use of the Central Region of Shiretoko Peninsula(JFY2007-2009)
On the foundation of the basic philosophy and policies of the Basic Concept for Appropriate Use of
Shiretoko National Park and the Basic Plan for Appropriate Use of the Central Region of theShiretoko Peninsula in Shiretoko National Park, it was formulated as a plan that should be
implemented by member organizations and groups of the Committee on the Promotion ofAppropriate Use, with regard to relevant matters including implementing measures, points ofconsideration for use, implementing system, monitoring, and so on, for the purpose of promoting
appropriate use of Shiretoko-Goko Lakes, Lake Rausu, Shiretoko Mountain Range, and Kamuiwakka
areas.

Plan for Appropriate Use of the Utilization Management Zone in

Formulated in October 2011

Shiretoko-Goko Lakes
Committee on Proper use of Shiretoko-Goko Lakes[Summary]
As a premise of sustainable conservation of diverse ecosystems that are formed by highly primeval
natural landscapes and abundant wildlife observed only in Shiretoko, this plan was formulated to ensure
appropriate use under the basic policy of promoting proper provision of opportunities for natureexperiences under certain rules and sustainable use in primeval nature areas, by examining relevant issues
caused by excessive use in Shiretoko-Goko Lakes, effective regulations of use to avoid any conflicts withbrown bears densely inhabiting the area, guidance and enhancement of public awareness, maintenance offacilities, and protection and management of brown bears.

Shiretoko Ecotourism Promotion Plan

Formulated in June 2005
Shiretoko Ecotourism Association[Summary]
This plan was formulated to promote the implementation of relevant measures and policies, as well as theconsolidation and improvement of mechanisms as a foundation to promote ecotourism, so that all
stakeholders, including local residents, visitors and business operators are able to create “Shiretoko-type
ecotourism” making the best use of abundant and diverse natural environment and local industries andcultures that have been nurtured by nature. It lists up relevant matters, including development andexpansion of attractive programs considering environmental impacts, review of various guidelines,
necessity of protecting landscapes, monitoring surveys, enhancement of information dissemination,
efforts to attract foreign ecotourists, consideration for the return to natural environment conservation
toward wider-area coordination between Shiretoko and its neighboring areas.

Shiretoko Ecotourism Promotion Implementation Plan

Formulated in March 2007
Shiretoko Ecotourism Association[Summary]
This plan articulated concrete goals and visions on measures to be undertaken for the promotion of
ecotourism in Shiretoko. It lists relevant matters, including the operation of the Shiretoko Ecotourism
Guidelines, promoting stay-type tourism, information functions by an integrated contact organization,planning and development of locally initiated tours, improving guides’ skills and competencies,
implementation of nature conservation activities in Shiretoko, examining the way to use existing touristic
sites, and considering system establishment to return tourism revenue to the conservation of environment.

Appendix 4
Joint Committee Members
Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site Scientific Council, Proper Use and Ecotourism
Working Group
Asami Shikida (Chair), Center for Advanced Tourism Studies, Hokkaido University
Tetsuya Aikoh, Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University
Yukio Ishikawa, The Shirakami Research Center for Environmental Sciences, Hirosaki University
Akihiro Kobayashi, School of Economics, Senshu University
Yasushi Shoji, Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University
Hajime Nakagawa
Tsutomu Mano, Hokkaido Research Organization, Environmental and Geological Research Department

Shiretoko Natural World Heritage Site Regional Liaison Committee, Proper Use and Ecotourism
Subcommittee
Local relevant organizations and relevant administrative organizations
Utoro area association

Kushiro Development andConstruction Department

Utoro fishery cooperative association

Abashiri Development andConstruction Department

Shiretoko Shari Tourism Association

Kitami Transportation Department

Shiretoko Rausu Tourism Association

Kushiro Transportation Department

Rausu Town

Abashiri Coast Guard Security

Shiretoko Natural World Heritage

Committee

Headquarter Department

Rausu fishery cooperative association

Rausu Coast Guard Security
Headquarter Department

Shiretoko Nature Guide Association

Hokkaido Kushiro Area Police
Headquarters

Shiretoko Nature Foundation

Hokkaido Kitami Area Police
Headquarters

Shiretoko Ecotourism Association

Shari Town

Shiretoko Nature Protection Association

Rausu Town

Shari Alpine Club
Rausu Alpine Club
Rausu Recreational Fishing Association

Shari Daiichi Fishery Cooperative Association
Shiretoko Small Sightseeing Ship Association
Shiretoko Rausu Sightseeing Ship Association
Natural Parks Foundation, Shiretoko Branch
OfficeSecretariat
The Ministry of the Environment Kushiro Nature Conservation Office, Hokkaido Regional Forest
Office, and Hokkaido Prefectural Government

Appendix 5
Ideas Regarding Solutions for Respective Issues(1) Apical Region- Lending of food containers and bear sprays shall be conducted as an official service.
- A balance between reliable conservation and proper disclosure shall be achieved, by applying
relevant systems with legal guarantees, etc.
- Relevant manners to avoid any disturbance or troubles for fishermen and fishery organizations shallbe surely informed (to visitors).
- As to cleaning of the apical region of Shiretoko, volunteers shall be invited from across the country,
and good nature experiences are to be offered.
- Some safe camping areas shall be arranged at convenient spots for kayak users and trekkers.
- As for the Rusha area, its specific control system shall be set as a special area to build a mechanism
enabling fair opening. By this system, any photographers who enter with privileges and encourage
wildlife to be tamed by humans to an extreme extent shall be prohibited from entering.
- Ranger stations shall be established in Aburako Bay of Shiretoko Cape and Moireushi Bay ascenters for providing guidance and information to campers and passengers as well as formonitoring activities.
- As for entry to the Rusha area and Shiretoko Cape District, special rules, such as putting entry
under official control, etc. shall be applied.
- The promotion of winter use of Mt. Shiretoko shall be considered.

(2) Central Region- A system for guide accompaniment and shuttle bus use shall be considered in the Central Region.
- Shuttle bus systems shall be established for the sections of Horobetsu-Kamuiwakka (orIdashubetsu), Iwaobetsu Onsen Road, Rusa-Aidomari, and Shiretoko Crossroad. In addition,short-time lectures shall be implemented at transferring centers. Roadside paths shall be used as
walkways and trekking courses.
- A system shall be arranged to provide preliminary lectures to users of Shiretoko Mountain Range,
Lake Rausu, etc.
- Concerning security measures for climbing purposes, different responses shall be prepared for theroute to only Mt. Rausu and the traverse routes toward Mt. Iou and Kamuiwakka.
- Related organizations and groups shall discuss among themselves to ensure to concretely work on
various issues, such as patrolling, research and study, environmental education, maintenance andfixing of walkways, protection of vegetation, human waste management, notification of relevant
compliance matters among users, guides and agents, a system to collect relevant information fromusers, increase in management staff members, integration of administrative tasks, etc.
- Route changes shall be considered in some sections of the traverse route of Shiretoko Mountain
Range.
- Booths for using portable toilets shall be installed as soon as possible.
- A bus rotary station and an observatory facility shall be constructed at the mouth of Idashubetsu
River, and shuttle buses shall be operated from Shiretoko-Goko Lakes to Idashubetsu. The road

between the observatory to Kamuiwakka shalll be closed, while a new system shall be establishedso that Kamuiwakka Falls, Kamuiwakka Observation Point, Shiretoko Ohashi (Great Bridge), and
Mt. Iou Trailhead shall be accessible by pedestrians and cyclists. This shall enable users to use
Kamuiwakka Four Falls and other places at their own responsibility.
- As a measure to respond to encounters with brown bears (Ursus arctos), various measures,
including changes of courses in forest parts of walkways for Furepe Waterfall and construction
work to elevate the paths, shall be examined.
- Electric fences, anti-brown bear dust boxes, food storage, and so on, shall be arranged in Yunosawa
Camping Ground and National Utoro Camping Area.
- Transfer center functions shall be strengthened for the operation of shuttle buses for the
Rusa-Aidomari Route.
- The neighboring environment of Rusa Field House shall be enhanced and rehabilitated to encourage
visitors to stay for longer periods.
- Physical measures shall be strengthened to prevent brown bears from entering roads and seacoastsof the Rusa-Aidomari Route. In addition, an environment shall be prepared as an alternative
measure for visitors who wish to observe brown bears, and a function enabling them to watch
Blakiston's fish-owls (Ketupa blakistoni blakistoni) shall be added too.
- In order to respond to bad manners of anglers at the mouth of Rusa River as well as risks of
attracting brown bears and causing accidents, an appropriate environment to properly deal withcaught fish shall be prepared so that anglers naturally drop by this facility.

(3) Sea Areas- Regular study sessions shall be conducted for shipboard guides for improving their skills.
- New courses for sightseeing ships and organizing events shall be considered.
- Alternative programs at the time of cancellations of sightseeing ships are to be considered.
- Work on protection activities, providing information, and research cooperation for brown bears andspectacled guillemots (Cepphus carbo). In addition to making the best use of wildlife’s values by
PR activities and establishing brands, relevant rules shall be made.
- Common rules and cooperative systems shall be established among business operators who work inthe same field. In addition, considerations are needed for making rules for new participants andmaking distinctions with fishermen and fishery associations in terms of sea ares that are accessed.
- Ships shall carry out environment friendly operations by reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and soon.

(4) Neighboring Areas- A system shall be established to provide attractions of agricultural areas and their surrounding
mountains in the base area of Shiretoko Peninsula, and to enhance the diversity of use of Shiretoko.

(5) Entire Peninsula- The development of programs for nature experiences shall be promoted, so that visitors shall stayfor a week in Shiretoko while experiencing different programs every day.
- Restoration of houses of former settlers and old fisher’s huts in the apical region of the Peninsula,and establishment of a management organization for maintaining these buildings.
- A certification system shall be established for safety regulations of respective organizations,guidelines of safety measures for each activity, and organizations to train and certify humanresources.
- Experiences and knowledge of those who have been engaged with industrial activities, together
with nature, in Shiretoko, such as first and second generations that worked on agriculturaldevelopment, retired fishermen, and so on, shall be utilized in the form of narrators for guided
tours.
- An environment shall be prepared so that bird watchers give no stress to birds, by installingobservatory buildings for white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) and Steller's sea eagles(Haliaeetus pelagicus) in Sashirui River, Moyurusu Bay, etc.