Geoparks on Shikoku
Shikoku is located in a so-called subduction zone, where a continental plate and an oceanic plate intersect. The movement of these tectonic plates over tens of millions of years has formed a wide variety of geological strata, which make up the literal bedrock of differing regions throughout the island. The various strata are represented by different colors on the map below.
・Tosashimizu (aspiring to become a geopark)
Sandstone
Mudstone
Granite
・Muroto (UNESCO Global Geopark)
Basalt
Sandstone
Gabbro
・Shikoku Seiyo (Geopark)
Limestone
Tuff
Chert
・Miyoshi (aspiring to become a geopark)
Sandstone
Psammitic schist
Greenschist
Pelitic schist
・Sanuki (may aim to become a geopark)
Andesite
Granodiorite
Granite
Highlights of the Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark
Once renowned for its deep-sea tuna fishing, the town of Murotsu remains an important source of food for the people of the Muroto region.
[Captions]
Learn: The difference in elevation between the town of Minatonoue and its port is a result of earthquakes raising the land that the town was built on.
Eat: Try the local kinmedai (splendid alfonsino), a deep-sea fish considered a delicacy and widely available here thanks to the characteristics of the seafloor just off the coast.
Explore: The town’s sea-dependent lifestyle is honored at Chudoji Temple, where a memorial dedicated to whales reminds visitors of the substantial role whaling has played in Murotsu’s history.
