Frequently asked questions
Natural Monuments are animals, plants, geological features and minerals of high scientific value, designated by the national government under the Act on Protection of Cultural Properties. Prefectures and municipalities also designate their own Natural Monuments under local ordinances.
Special Natural Monuments are national Natural Monuments of especially high national or global value, equivalent to 'National Treasures' among buildings and artworks. They include the crested ibis, oriental stork, rock ptarmigan, Japanese serow and Amami rabbit.
Ikimono Kokuho lists 203 national designations (21 of them Special Natural Monuments) and 202 prefectural designations, covering 293 kinds of animals. Some designate a species itself; others designate a habitat, breeding site or wintering ground.
No. Capturing, harming or altering Natural Monuments requires permission from the Commissioner for Cultural Affairs (or the prefectural board of education) and is punishable without it. Watch from a distance and never feed the animals.
Do not handle it. Contact the local municipal board of education (cultural properties section), the prefectural office or a wildlife protection centre.
Yes. Native domestic animals unique to Japan are designated too, including Japanese dog breeds such as the Shiba and Akita, native chickens such as the long-tailed Onagadori, Mishima cattle and Misaki horses.