As a follow up of the first visit of Chinese Geoparks representatives to the Japanese Geoparks Network (JGN) in April this year, representatives from the JGN, Itoigawa UGG, Muroto UGG, San’in  Kaigan UGG, Unzen Volcanic Area UGG, Oki Islands UGG, Izu Peninsula, Mine-Akiyoshidai Karst Pleateau and Nanki Kumano National Geoparks of the JGN visited Arxan and Fangshan UGGs from 12 to 17 September 2017.  Representatives from Yingqing UGG, Alxa UGG, Hexigten UGG, and Hong Kong UGGs also participated in the event. This exchange was part of an on-going effort by the JGN and the Geoparks of China to promote mutual understanding and a partnership culture. It was initiated by Hong Kong UGG of China and co-ordinated by the Geoheritage Research Centre of China University of Geosciences (Beijing).

The delegation visited Arxan UGG from 12 to 15 August and Fangshan UGG from 15 to 17 August. The major objective of the trip was to get first-hand information about geoparks in China. The visit included exchanges to share experience on best practices and science-popularisation methods. The delegation, together with colleagues from the CGN, were also invited to participate in an on-site investigation mission to discuss the best geo-conservation methods to protect an extensive area of lava outcrop in the Turtle Back Rocks geosite in  Arxan UGG.

Mr Liu Zhi, Director of the Arxan UGG, remarked that the visit by the JGN delegation was a very effective way for a new UGG to acquire new ideas to improve its development model. Mr Seiichi Saito, Secretary General of the JGN, added that the delegation was able to get valuable first-hand information about geoparks in China. The participants understand China and the Chinese Geoparks much better than before. Mr Kazuhiro Nobe, Oki Islands UGG, Leader of the International Collaboration Working Group of the JGN said that this type of exchange is applicable to the whole Asian Pacific Geoparks Network.

On-site investigation to explore the best geo-conservation methods at Turtle Back Rocks geosite in Arxan UGG

Visit to Peking Man Site Museum, one of the ten best museums of its type in China 

After the visit, the delegation attended the APGN Symposium, which took place in Zhijindong Cave UGG of China from September 19 to 22, 2017.