Join us in Japan to explore the rich coastlines and dynamic marine ecosystems that characterize the complete Japanese archipelago. Similar to traveling from Maine to Florida, students will complete a transect over 1400 miles in length allowing them to observe first-hand how the latitudinal spread of Japan has given rise to diverse ecosystems, ranging from cold, nutrient-rich temperate seas in the north to tropical waters and coral reefs in the south. Starting in Hokkaido, the most northern island in Japan, and ending in Okinawa in the far south, team members will conduct environmental surveys and document ecological gradients to develop a deep understanding of the coastal and marine fauna that exist in this biologically distinct corner of the Pacific Ocean. Students will leave this program with a strong understanding of how Japan’s history is intimately tied to the ocean, emphasizing ichthyology (the study of fishes), and how ongoing marine conservation efforts and effective management strategies are critically important to this island nation.
Background Information
Like many island societies, the ocean is central to Japanese history and identity. Since the arrival of the first settlers approximately 40,000 years ago, the ocean has simultaneously isolated and connected the Japanese people to the rest of the world, allowing for a rich and distinct culture to form. The ocean acts as a barrier, offering the island nation protection; notably, the ocean prevented the expansion of the Mongol Empire in the latter half of the 13th century as Kublai Khan’s fleet of ships succumbed to a powerful typhoon, reinforcing Japan’s belief that the ocean is a protective force that can be both benevolent and wrathful. Additionally, the ocean served as a natural ally during the Tokugawa Period, a timeframe in Japan’s history spanning the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries characterized by peace, stability, and isolationist policies designed to limit the influence of European colonialism and Christianity.
The ocean has also been integral in connecting Japan to the outside world and positioning the country as a global leader. In the centuries leading up to World War II, Japan’s maritime influence rapidly grew as the country established a powerful navy and expanded their fleet of merchant ships, increasing trade and bringing needed goods to the resource-limited island. In the wake of World War II, transpacific exchange has allowed Japan to become one of the United States’ closest allies and trading partners, underscoring the importance of international relationships.
In addition to shaping the culture of Japan and playing a geopolitical role, the ocean and the life it supports are critical for Japanese livelihoods and the sea has been a source of artistic inspiration since the country’s early history. In more modern times, Japan has invested in marine and aquaculture research. Through innovative technology and focusing on sustainable solutions, Japan has become a leader in the field, contributing to worldwide ocean conservation efforts and establishing an extensive network of research stations, many of which we will have the opportunity to visit during the program.
Japan’s deep historical and cultural ties to the ocean make it an ideal location to study the human connection to the sea, while Japan’s geography and extensive coastline provide the perfect backdrop to study marine diversity across a variety of seascapes. The archipelago spans approximately 25 latitudinal degrees, stretching from warm, tropical conditions at 20°N to 45°N, where the climate is temperate and defined by strong seasonality. Distinct climate zones can be seen across Japan’s various terrestrial ecosystems as well as within the ocean, where cold currents from the north meet warm currents from the south. The confluence of currents drives upwelling and creates dynamic conditions that are perfect for supporting a spectacular mix of marine life. From iconic ocean giants, including manta rays, whale sharks, giant squid, and spider crabs to colorful fishes that frolic among coral reefs, Japan’s marine environment is renowned for its exceptional diversity and is often referred to as a marine biodiversity hotspot. Even with an abundance of life, Japan’s marine environment is fragile, and marine organisms are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, overfishing, and climate change.
The distinct marine ecosystems that can be found in Japan make it an excellent location to study how physical factors shape biological diversity. Students who join this program can expect to be immersed in a range of ecosystems and leave with a strong understanding of the dynamic nature of the sea, the fascinating species that exist beneath the water’s surface, the main stressors that threaten Japan’s marine environment, and a deep respect for Japanese culture and people who depend on the sea for their livelihood.
Program Goals and Activities
The primary goal of this program is to explore the diversity of Japan’s marine ecosystems. By completing a vertical transect of the archipelago, students will learn about Japan’s coastal and marine environments, collect data to study biodiversity and fish behavior, engage with local communities to better understand environmental challenges, interact with experts in the field to learn about Japan’s ambitious research initiatives, analyze and discuss conservation strategies, and gain insight into Japan’s deep connection to the sea. Students will have the opportunity to participate in ecosystem monitoring, complete research projects, and hone their skills as naturalists through field journaling, field exercises, and snorkeling surveys. We will be based out of field stations, national parks, and remote coastal villages as we utilize Japan’s train system and public ferry to make our way from the north to the south. The following topics, described below, will be covered in depth during the program.
Biogeography
What factors determine the distribution of fishes? Are the ranges of tropical marine species expanding and displacing temperate species? These questions have many answers, which largely depend on the species. We will use case studies to understand how each species is affected by a unique combination of biotic and abiotic factors. Covering a gradient of marine habitats, students will witness firsthand the biogeographic barriers that exist in the ocean that isolate, connect, and define populations. Furthermore, we will establish and build a temporal dataset to determine how climate change is impacting the distribution and range of marine fishes with the objective of elucidating whether predicted climate change effects, such as warming waters and nutrient depletion, are leading to range shifts.
Resource Management
How can we harvest fish sustainably? What tools can we use to develop sustainable management plans? How do we meet the needs of humans if they exceed a sustainable harvest? Japan’s fishing industry is diverse, including both industrialized offshore fishing fleets and local fishing cooperatives. We will explore the tools used to assess fish populations and gain an understanding of how the complex life cycles that are unique to each marine species needs to be considered when estimating fish stocks and establishing fishing quotas. We will work to understand the status of marine fisheries and various management practices, including discussions centered on catch limits, size limits, the seasonality of fishing, and how marine management plans are effectively applied or ignored. Finally, we will explore aquaculture as a tool that can supplement wild caught harvests, including factors that make this a sustainable or unsustainable option.
Evolution
Are all populations of fishes the same? What defines a population of fishes? Why are different species present on the east versus west coast of Japan? Micro- and macro-evolution underpin our studies of both resource management and biogeography. We will discuss how microevolution, which looks at small changes in the genetic makeup of a population over short time scales, allows local adaptations to emerge and differentiates populations. We will also look at how macroevolution, which takes place over longer periods of time, is connected to biogeographical principles, driving the evolution of species, the development of communities, and interactions between species.
Field and Ichthyological Skills
How do scientists study fish communities? What tools can be used to uncover cryptic diversity of fishes? Students will learn methods that are used to study fish behavior, assess community assemblages, identify species, and analyze diversity. Through completing transects and timed fish counts in conjunction with identifying and cataloging species, students will complete hands-on investigations of fish communities and collect data to contribute to a class dataset with the objective of being able to draw comparisons between study sites. As a team, we will select suitable approaches to study each location’s conditions, allowing students to develop a field skill set that can be applied broadly in both marine and terrestrial environments. Additionally, we will learn how anatomical features that are unique to fish, such as fin rays and scales, and body metrics can be used to uncover subtle differences that distinguish species. Close examination of fish morphology will deepen our understanding of their diversity and their life histories.
Biodiversity Hypotheses
What are the best approaches that can be used to interpret collected data? As we collect data, we will form and evaluate hypotheses. We will learn about the questions we can answer through ecological research, the appropriate analyses to use for interpretation, and we will discuss the limitations of our methodologies. Through field surveys and site investigations, students will become familiar with how diversity indices can be used to explain ecological patterns that emerge across marine environments. An emphasis will be placed on the drivers of speciation, including how new species arise due to limited connectivity between populations.
Japanese Culture and the Connection to the Sea
Japan's cuisine, and by extension its culture, are deeply linked to seafood. From gyotaku, the art of fish prints, to the extensive training process for sushi chefs, fish are celebrated as both food and icons. Our course will study fish as a nexus between society and the environment. We will explore, and sometimes taste, Japan's traditional seafood as a way to study the cultural role of fish. For example, we will have the option to try katsuobushi, smoked and fermented bonito flakes, an ingredient that is important in many dishes, including miso soup. Beyond food, we will explore fish as a cultural motif, including as art, as local mascots, and promoting domestic tourism.
Please note that prior field research experience is not required. All necessary field methods and skills for data acquisition will be taught on-site. We expect students to have a positive and engaging attitude throughout the course. In exchange, our field studies program will provide a unique opportunity to assess major issues affecting marine conservation and environmental sustainability in Japan, and the strategies that can help meet the region’s future needs. On our program, you can expect to have direct exposure to Japanese culture and be immersed in the fascinating coastal and marine ecosystems that characterize the Japanese archipelago, while learning in depth about marine ecology and conservation initiatives.
Academic Credit
Students will receive 15 quarter credits/10 semester credits from Western Washington University. Our staff will be happy to explain the program in further detail to the applicant’s advisor, if necessary. This field studies program gives credit in three courses:
Environmental Wildlands Studies (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)
Environmental Field Survey (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)
Wildlands Environment and Culture (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)
Students will be evaluated on the basis of: 1) active participation in our learning process and activities; 2) examinations and other graded assignments; and 3) implementation and presentation of an independent research project.
Team members are expected to conduct themselves maturely and responsibly. Wildlands Studies reserves the right to require any student to withdraw from the program if their conduct is detrimental to or incompatible with the interests, safety, or welfare of any course participants. We ask all students to read the Student Program Manual before attending the on-site program.
Team Logistics
Participants will fly into New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, Japan. At the conclusion of the program in Okinawa, Japan participants can decide whether to fly home on the scheduled date or stay in Japan to travel independently.
All reasonable efforts will be made to follow the activities outlined above. However, please understand that in our program, travel arrangements in Japan can remain tentative until the travel takes place. Weather conditions, road closures, and bureaucratic considerations may affect our plans. Wildlands Studies has developed an innovative and unique program in Japan, and team members must be flexible, patient, and prepared to adapt to unexpected situations. Being flexible also allows us to take advantage of unique opportunities that can produce some of the program’s most memorable moments.
Accommodations
Primarily camping, occasional youth hostel or rural lodge.
Food
Food is handled differently on each of our programs. Participants on this program will be responsible for purchasing and cooking approximately one-third of their meals. The remaining meals will be provided by Wildlands Studies as group meals. Participants will also be responsible for purchasing snacks. Detailed information about food management will be provided in the Logistics Packet. If you have dietary questions or concerns, please call our office.
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
Each participant’s personal health and well-being are crucial to the success of the program and the health and well-being of its other participants. Participants must arrive to the program having reviewed our Health and Well-Being Page.
Official Documents/Visa
You will need a current passport that does not expire until three months after the end of the program. No visa is necessary for our stay during the program.
Language
This program is taught in English. The Instructor and other staff will translate as needed. Of course, it is always helpful to speak Japanese, and if you have the chance, please practice or brush up on your language skills before the program begins.
Pre-Program Logistics Packet
Detailed information regarding travel and visa requirements, equipment specifications, food costs, meeting arrangements, group expense payment, medical and vaccination recommendations, and academic preparations will be sent to all team members in a logistics letter, emailed approximately ten to twelve weeks before the program commences.
