History of Bogatsuru
Surrounded by mountains, including Mt. Hiji and Mt. Taisen, the Bogatsuru Marsh is located almost in the center of the Kuju Mountain Range at an elevation of about 1,200 m above sea level. The high altitude of the marsh gives rise to a unique wetland environment inhabited by plants such as Japanese irises (Iris ensata) and bellflowers (Campanula).
Formed from volcanic springs at the foot of Mt. Kuju, Bogatsuru is considered a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. Sites that are considered rare or unique wetlands, or wetlands that are important for conserving biological diversity, are designated as Ramsar Sites. Bogatsuru Marsh was recognized as a Ramsar Site in 2005 for its thriving ecosystem of rare grasses and plants, endemic aquatic insects and wild birds, which fulfilled the criteria for Ramsar designation.
The marsh and surrounding mountains are traversed by several hiking trails and have long been an area popular with nature enthusiasts and walkers. To protect the area’s indigenous species and maintain the natural environment of the marsh, there have been numerous conservation activities undertaken by trained locals and volunteers over the years, including controlled burnings, cutting, exterminating alien species, and maintaining mountain trails.