#Japan #Environmental Protection #Tsurui #Tanchou Crane #Trust Campaign

Tanchou Trust Campaign: Preserving Japan's Natural Beauty

The Tanchou Trust, spearheaded by the National Trust Association, is dedicated to protecting Japan's breathtaking landscapes, particularly those nurturing the iconic Tanchou, or Red Crowned Crane. As this majestic bird faces threats from habitat loss and developments like large-scale solar power projects, the campaign calls for public engagement to help secure their future.

The Story of the Tanchou

The Tanchou, one of Japan’s symbols, is a special natural monument found mainly in eastern Hokkaido. This magnificent bird can reach lengths of approximately 140 cm and has a wingspan of up to 240 cm, making it the largest wild bird in Japan. Historical records indicate that Tanchou were once found in Kanto as well but faced near extinction due to overhunting during the Meiji period. Fortunately, a small population was rediscovered in 1924 in the Kushiro Wetlands, thanks to the efforts of local communities who supported their feeding and protection. Today, a beautiful environment has been cultivated around Yukiura River in Tsurui Village, where various species, including Tanchou, thrive.

The Significance of Yukiura River

Yukiura River, fed by natural springs, remains unfrozen even in harsh winter, providing an ideal habitat for Tanchou. The area, particularly around the Otowa Bridge, offers an incredible vantage point for observing these cranes amid stunning natural scenery. However, the tranquility of this landscape faced a potential threat from proposed solar power installations. To prevent such developments, Tsurui Village and the National Trust Association have united in a mission to secure this land.

National Trust and Its Mission

The National Trust model, which originated in 19th-century Britain, focuses on collective action to preserve natural and historical environments through public donations. Figures like Beatrix Potter have historically contributed to these efforts. In Japan, this movement started in Kamakura in 1964 and has since reached over 50 regions nationwide.

Our initiative successfully acquired approximately 7.5 ha of land in December 2025 and an additional 17 ha in March 2026, alongside Tsurui Village’s separate purchase of about 10 ha. Thus, we are protecting a total of 35 ha of vital landscapes in the region.

A Call for Support

With the acquired lands, we are inviting continuous support through donations to help finance these efforts—specifically, we are currently seeking funds for the second acquisition phase, which has a cost of 3.36 million yen. We believe that collective small contributions can yield significant change, exemplified by the saying, “More impactful is one pound from one thousand people than ten thousand pounds from one individual.” Your participation matters.

Be a Part of the Change

We have established a campaign dedicated to raising awareness and funds to further our mission. To join our efforts, donations can be made directly through dedicated bank transfers, and we encourage spreading the word via social media and community engagement.

Conclusion

This movement is crucial not just for Tsurui Village but for the broader landscape within Japan. Protecting these areas may also safeguard landscapes meaningful to you. If you believe in this cause, even the smallest contribution can make a difference. Together, let's ensure these beautiful environments thrive for future generations.

For more updates, visit our campaign website: Tanchou Trust Campaign.

About the National Trust Association

Established in 1983, the association has since acquired nearly 1,765 hectares across 60 sites, focusing on protecting habitats, wetlands, and landscapes vital to biodiversity and cultural heritage.