Abstract
This study aimed at explaining the historical transition of the resource values (values of the natural environment) of the National Parks in Japan and the transition of the management style (protection, park use, operation, etc.). Our method involved examining the amendments of the law, reasons of the park designation or expansion, projects to be carried out inside the parks, etc., in the chronological order. The results showed that the scenic aspect of the pristine nature was originally central to the resource value, but that perspectives of fauna, flora and ecosystem conservation were added later, and that the aspects of biodiversity, human-influenced natural environments, and cultural landscapes are becoming more valuable in recent years. The results also showed the transition of the management style, the focus of which was shifted from government-led sanctuary-type protection to the management through cooperation and interaction with local communities.
