Welcome to Asago City Nature Conservation Center
Located at the watershed of the Ichikawa River flowing to the Seto Inland Sea and the Maruyama River flowing to the Sea of Japan, Asago City is blessed with rich natural environment. Its crystal-clear headwaters are home to one of Japan’s finest habitats for the Japanese Giant Salamander, a National Special Natural Monument.
About the Japanese Giant Salamander
The Japanese Giant Salamander is the world’s largest amphibian, often called a “living fossil” as it has remained virtually unchanged for over 23 million years. Designated as a National Special Natural Monument in 1952, this remarkable creature is now facing threats from habitat degradation and hybridization with invasive species.
As the apex of the river ecosystem, they are extremely sensitive to environmental changes and serve as an indicator of a healthy natural environment.
Our Facility
Our facility is at the forefront of research and conservation to protect the Japanese Giant Salamander. From the headwaters of Asago, we pursue and promote the coexistence of people and nature.
- Exhibition Room: Life-size aquarium displays and video exhibitions
- Laboratory: Ecological research with state-of-the-art equipment
- Lecture Room: Latest research findings and nature displays
- Museum Shop: Nature-related merchandise
- Outdoor Breeding Area: Conservation of protected individuals
Admission
| Category | Fee |
| General | ¥300 |
| High School / University Students | ¥150 |
| Junior High School and Under | Free |
Opening Hours
10:00 – 17:00
Closed on Wednesdays and the day after public holidays.
Access
〒679-3341 507 Kurokawa, Ikuno-cho, Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
By Car:
・Approx. 30 min from Ikuno IC (Banshu Renraku Road)
・Approx. 25 min from Aogaki IC (Maizuru Wakasa Expressway)
・Approx. 40 min from Wadayama IC
By Train:
JR Bantan Line “Ikuno Station”, then approx. 30 min by taxi