Knowledge Sharing on Local Natural and Cultural Resources through the Activities of Geotour Guide Organizations in the Mt. Asama North Geopark

Abstract

With the aim of promoting geopark activities in the magnificent natural landscape of Mt. Asama, and the natural and cultural resources in its vicinity, local residents and nature lovers developed systematic guide activities in the northern foothills of the mountain. To be certified as a Japanese domestic geopark, guides working in the area initiated a movement that led to the creation of the Mt. Asama Geoguide Association. The local and villa residents in the village of Tsumagoi and town of Naganohara, who were involved in guide activities as separate groups or individuals and promoted geopark activities are now affiliated with the Geoguide Association. Subsequently, several initiatives were taken under the geopark concept, and further efforts were made to improve the guiding ability of the organization. Such initiatives included organizing various guide activities, lecture programs featuring invited external speakers, and workshops in which all participants collaborated in the creation of a guide text. Additionally, a guide training course was conducted to increase the number of geoguides.