The Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark has been Revalidated!

At the 11th UNESCO Global Geoparks International Conference, held in Chile on 5 and 6 September (Chilean time), UNESCO deliberated on the matter considering the on-site  revalidation mission that was carried out in July 2025.  

The Oki Islands have been revalidated as a UNESCO Global Geopark for the third time and has been authorised to continue its activities as a UNESCO Global Geopark for another four years. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who came together to make this happen. 

Comment by the Chair of the Oki Islands Geopark Management Bureau   (General Incorporated Association) 

Following the on-site evaluation for the revalidation as a UNESCO Global Geopark, which took place from 3 to 6 July 2025, the Oki region has now been re-accredited as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Regarding initiatives addressing marine environmental issues, the area was reaccredited following high praise for being a model region amongst the 229 certified areas worldwide (as at the end of August 7).

The fact that we have been able to achieve such high recognition is entirely due to the ongoing efforts of the island’s residents and all those involved, particularly through initiatives such as beach clean-ups, and I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to you all once again.

We at the Oki Islands Geopark Management Bureau are committed to promoting education and regional development through the conservation and utilisation of local resources, and to further advancing the creation of a sustainable tourism region centred on the Geopark. We would therefore appreciate your continued support and cooperation.

Chair IKEDA Kōsei

Oki Islands Geopark Management Bureau

9 September 2025

Related Information

• Announcement on the UNESCO website (external link) (English)
• Announcement on the Japan Geopark Committee website (external link) (Japanese)