JP031Matsumae islets

Site Description

Coastline; Grassland

Matsumaekojima islet is located at 24 km off shore of Matsumae Town, southwest of Hokkaido. It is an uninhabited islet of about 4km perimeter. Most parts of the islet are grasslands, with Acer mono at Goten basin on the crater area. Coastal parts are all steep cliffs and so it will be impossible to come to the islet by sea. The colony of Rhinoceros Auklet, that used to be at the west side of Benten Shrine, has moved to the coast of Mt.Kitadake. Around Matsumaekojima islet, there are large and small islets such as Daihiyakushima, Shohiyakushima, Tenjinshima and Sazaeshima. Many seabirds breed here.

Area & Coordinates

115ha 41°21′N 139°48′E
region: Hokkaido

Category

A4i, A4ii, A4iii

Designation Type

National Monument, Prefectural National Park, Wildlife Protection Area (Local)

Protection Status

Partially protected

Conservation issues

• Recreation/tourism
• Infrastructure