Research Assistance in the Itoigawa Geopark

For Researchers Planning to Conduct Surveys in Itoigawa

 Itoigawa UNESCO Global Geopark has many outcrops, geological features and regions designated as Geosites, Cultural Properties and Natural Parks. To assist researchers and academics, both those affiliated with universities and research institutions as well as private researchers, the Fossa Magna Museum has set up a support desk for discussing conservation and research related issues and concerns such as:

  • Information regarding restricted areas and procedures for sample collection. Information regarding permission and paperwork required for conducting surveys and collecting samples.
  • Current conditions related to access roads and mountain trails, including construction, disasters and anything else that might affect site accessibility.
  • Best practices for considering the concerns and wishes of local residents when conducting surveys.
  • Information about affordable long-term accommodations, etc.

Itoigawa’s Protected Areas and Cultural Properties

Itoigawa’s Natural Parks

Itoigawa’s Nature (Japanese)

Itoigawa’s National Forests

Joetsu District Forest Office Jurisdiction Map (Japanese)

Itoigawa’s Designated & Registered Cultural Properties

Designated & Registered Cultural Properties (Japanese)

Application Forms

Applications Related to Natural Park

Regarding Natural Park Areas & Restricted Activities (Japanese)

Applications Related to National Forests

Entering National Forest Areas (Japanese)

Applications Related to Designated & Registered Cultural Properties

Changing the Condition of Historic Sites, Scenic Areas or Natural Monuments (Japanese)

Applications Related to Mt. Niigata-Yakeyama

Ordinances in Place to Prevent Accidents from Volcanic Activity Related to Mt. Niigata-Yakeyama (Japanese)

For more information, please contact the Fossa Magna Museum Curator’s Office via email:

Fossa Magna Museum Curator’s Office
Mail : [email protected]

Research Assistance Programs in the Itoigawa Geopark

1.Field Surveys

 We have experienced research staff specializing in geology, paleontology, structural geology and mineralogy who can accompany you on field surveys. We can also provide advice on applying for the necessary permission to conduct surveys in national parks and other protected areas.

2.Analysis Support

 Visiting researchers are able to use the Fossa Magna Museum’s laboratory and its equipment, including a scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS) and powder X-ray diffractor (XRD) as well as stone sample preparation equipment such as cutter and grinders. If you would like to use the Fossa Magna Museum’s laboratory facilities, please contact us in advance.
 We can also help you contact Niigata University and Joetsu University of Education regarding joint research opportunities.

Preparing Samples

JSM 6510LA Scanning Electron Microscope

3.Oumi Junior High School Seminar House

 Itoigawa City’s Oumi Junior High School Seminar House can be rented for inexpensive accommodations during your research period. For more information, visit the Oumi Junior High School Seminar House Page (Japanese) or contact us via email.

4.Academic Research Encouragement Grant

 The Itoigawa Geopark Council offers a special research grant available for qualifying research within the Itoigawa UNESCO Global Geopark.
 For more information, visit the Itoigawa Geopark Academic Research Encouragement Grant (Japanese) or contact us directly via email.