Abstract
A stone tidal weir is a traditional fixed fishing apparatus that is constructed on seaward slopes. It is basically a horseshoe-shaped or semicircular stone wall. It is popularly called ishihibi in Japan. Its construction has a close relationship to tidal changes. Fish swim into the weir during high tide but cannot find their way out during low tide and are caught in the shallow water within the weir. Recently, the remaining stone tidal weirs in Kyushu and Okinawa, the western part of Japan, have been designated as cultural assets, and local governments and residents are making steady efforts to preserve and reconstruct the weirs. In this paper, the author discusses how geographers can return research outcomes on stone tidal weirs to the local society and make efficient use of them as a cultural and historical heritage, symbol of marine resource management, tool for environmental education, and tool for regional revitalization.
