On June 19, 2025, the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS OUIK) held a results presentation meeting for the “Wildlife Survey of Japanese Gardens in Kanazawa City” at the Shiinoki Cultural Complex in Kanazawa City. This survey was conducted by Dr. Juan Pastor-Ivars (Researcher, UNU-IAS OUIK) over three years, targeting 30 gardens scattered throughout Kanazawa City, with the aim of clarifying the biodiversity of plants and animals as well as the ecological roles these gardens play.
At the venue, a diverse group of participants, including officials from Ishikawa Prefecture and Kanazawa City, garden owners, research institutions, and nature conservation organizations, gathered for a report meeting (closed to public) and exchange of opinions.
Initially, Dr. Juan Pastor-Ivars explained the background, methods, and main findings of the survey. Through environmental DNA analysis and on-site observations, several rare species in urban areas—such as the Greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum), Japanese pond turtle (Mauremys japonica), Japanese fire-bellied salamander (Cynops pyrrhogaster), and Ayu sweetfish (Plecoglossus altivelis) —were identified in multiple gardens. These results suggest that gardens function as important habitats and breeding grounds within the city.
Additionally, the presentation highlighted that gardens with a greater variety of plant species tend to host more animal species, that garden management practices influence biodiversity, and that gardens connected to waterways or irrigation channels support broader distributions of aquatic life. These findings indicate that gardens may serve as “ecological corridors” that connect natural environments within the urban landscape.
In the latter half, under the coordination of Tsunao Watanabe (Visiting Researcher, UNU-IAS OUIK), discussions focused on future prospects from various perspectives. Topics included utilizing gardens as OECMs (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures), establishing citizen participation in monitoring systems, and educational activities for children and youth.
This survey and presentation aim to reevaluate the scientific and cultural significance of remaining gardens in urban areas. It is expected to serve as foundational material for considering the certification of “Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Sites” in Kanazawa City and for developing urban plans that incorporate biodiversity considerations. Going forward, collaboration among government agencies, property owners, citizens, and researchers will continue to promote the realization of a city where urban life and nature coexist harmoniously.
