Nature Class for Grown-ups (2nd GGN Film Festival, Itoigawa UGGp)

Note: This version is localized in to English for submission to the 2nd GGN Film Festival.

The Stone Town Itoigawa Project was launched as a new means of introducing young people to Itoigawa and the Itoigawa UNESCO Global Geopark. When we talk about Geoparks, we often discuss them using terms like geoheritage, sustainability and community empowerment. While these are essential elements of Geoparks and their mission, the introduction of too many new concepts at once can be overwhelming for tourists and the general public. Even the word "Geopark," a loanword from English which is not readily understood by the average Japanese person, is not yet as well understood by laypeople as the more well-known World Heritage Sites.

The "Stone Town Itoigawa Project" makes use of the more readily understandable aspects of the Geopark--its sights, sounds and experiences--to introduce it to new audiences in a way that is gentle, accessible and engaging.

The video "Nature Class for Grown-ups" follows a group of friends on their spontaneous outing to Itoigawa UNESCO Global Geopark, showcasing popular sites and introducing ways to enjoy Itoigawa's geological, natural and cultural heritage.