Tadewara Marsh
The Tadewara Marsh is situated on the northwest side of the Kuju Mountain Range at an elevation of approximately 1,000 m. Due to Kuju’s geographical location, geological structure, and heavy annual rainfall (more than 2,500 mm), mineral-rich groundwater collects in the strata. The porous volcanic soil and open grassland areas collect rainwater in natural underground reservoirs. These waters well up in lower lying areas, creating a range of freshwater environments such as springs, ponds, and marshes.
Tadewara Marsh is one of Kuju’s typical freshwater environments. Created by the upwelling of fresh spring water draining from the surrounding mountains, Tadewara is a valley rich with plant and animal life. Freshwater reeds and other marsh plants support the rare aquatic insects that form the basis of a thriving ecosystem throughout the year.
In 2005, Tadewara and Bogatsuru were designated as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, thus protecting and preserving these unique natural habitats.