Published Papers - Chen, Bixia

Tourism's impacts on rural livelihood in the sustainability of an aging community in Japan

Chen B.

Sustainability (Switzerland) ( Sustainability (Switzerland) )  10 ( 8 ) 2896   2018.08 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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<jats:p>Rural tourism, which is often interpreted as rural development initiatives, has been extensively studied in a Japanese context; however, this has been typically observed at a community level, and the host households were assumed as homogeneous. Therefore, this article explores rural tourism’s potential as a tool for territorial development in Japan, and augments established literature by studying how rural tourism contributes to sustainable livelihoods at the household level in an aging community and a developed economy. For this purpose, a qualitative study observed a farm inn group in the town of Noto, a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) site in Japan. Three hypotheses were tested: (1) rural tourism in a remote/isolated region has changed the host households’ livelihood assets; (2) the economic benefits from rural tourism are marginal to host households; and (3) the benefits other than income earnings exceed the economic benefits for aging communities. The residents’ quality of life has improved in this super-aging rural community, although the economic benefits are still marginal to most host households. Tourists have brought vitality to these remote villages, and a lack of young residents to inherit these farm inn businesses presents a bottleneck to the industry’s future development. Social capital should be strengthened by forming social networks with the local government and private sectors.</jats:p>

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Conservation and contingent valuation of farming landscape amenities by visitors: A case study of terraced paddy fields in Central Japan

Chen B.

Paddy and Water Environment ( Paddy and Water Environment )  16 ( 3 ) 561 - 570   2018.07 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Dimensions and spatial distribution of remnant Garcinia Subelliptica tree belts sur-rounding homesteads in a coastal village- A case study of Shiraho Village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan -.

Chen, B., Nakama, Y.

海岸林学会誌 ( 日本海岸林学会 )  17 ( 1 ) 11 - 16   2018.07 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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The aim of the present study was to compile an inventory of dimensions and spatial distribution of remnant oldgrowth Fuguki trees planted along the borderlines of homesteads as windbreaks hundreds of years ago in Shiraho village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. We measured 2,447 Fukugi trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of at least 5 cm. Mean tree height, DBH, and estimated tree age were 7.16 m, 24.3 cm, and 96 years, respectively. The total number of trees and tree dimensions were similar to those in our previously surveyed sites. However, approximately half of the surveyed trees were planted on the east sides of houses, probably to protect them from strong winds blowing from the Pacific Ocean in the east. A broad distribution of old trees in the village suggests that a proportion of the Fukugi trees may have been established long before and may have survived the Meiwa Tsunami in 1771.

Dimensions and Spatial Distribution of Remnant <i>Garcinia subelliptica</i> Tree Belts Surrounding Homesteads in a Coastal Village

Chen Bixia, Nakama Yuei

海岸林学会誌 ( 日本海岸林学会 )  17 ( 1 ) 11 - 16   2018.06 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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The aim of the present study was to compile an inventory of dimensions and spatial distribution of remnant old growth Fuguki trees planted along the borderlines of homesteads as windbreaks hundreds of years ago in Shiraho village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. We measured 2,447 Fukugi trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of at least 5 cm. Mean tree height, DBH, and estimated tree age were 7.16 m, 24.3 cm, and 96 years, respectively. The total number of trees and tree dimensions were similar to those in our previously surveyed sites. However, approximately half of the surveyed trees were planted on the east sides of houses, probably to protect them from strong winds blowing from the Pacific Ocean in the east. Abroad distribution of old trees in the village suggests that a proportion of the Fukugi trees may have been established long before and may have survived the Meiwa Tsunami in 1771.

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Recreational use of urban forest parks: a case study in Fuzhou National Forest Park, China

Chen B.

Journal of Forest Research ( Journal of Forest Research )  23 ( 3 ) 183 - 189   2018.05 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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ABSTRACTUrban forest parks provide residents with recreational spaces and interaction with nature. This study aimed to examine the use pattern of an urban forest park in Fuzhou, South China. A total of 249 park visitors were interviewed face-to-face based on a questionnaire, in November 2015 and January 2016. The majority of the respondents visited the urban forest park accompanied by other family members on the weekend and most of them stayed for half a day. The natural/cultural resources and landscape (e.g. air, water, and vegetation) were evaluated as the most satisfying, whereas the facilities (parking lot and transportation to the park) and service (interpretation and crowdedness) as the least satisfying. The factors “income level” and “family structure” significantly influenced respondents’ decision to access Fuzhou National Forest Park (FNFP) by car. The clear majority of the respondents stayed for less than 6 h in FNFP, and thus, residents show a high demand for urban green spaces for leisure, in ...

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Fengshui forests and village landscapes in China: Geographic extent, socioecological significance, and conservation prospects

Chen B.

Urban Forestry and Urban Greening ( Urban Forestry and Urban Greening )  31   79 - 92   2018.04

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Protest response and contingent valuation of an urban forest park in Fuzhou City, China

Chen B.

Urban Forestry and Urban Greening ( Urban Forestry and Urban Greening )  29   68 - 76   2018.01

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Community attitudes toward ecotourism development and environmental conservation in nature reserve: a case of Fujian Wuyishan National Nature Reserve, China

Chen B.

Journal of Mountain Science ( Journal of Mountain Science )  14 ( 7 ) 1405 - 1418   2017.07

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Traditional village forest landscapes: Tourists' attitudes and preferences for conservation

Chen B.

Tourism Management ( Tourism Management )  59   652 - 662   2017.04

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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中国における自然保護政策をめぐる利害対立の構図

陳 碧霞, 大田 伊久雄

林業経済研究 ( 林業経済学会 )  63 ( 1 ) 48 - 57   2017

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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As a consequence of the rapid development of nature reserves in China, conflicts between nature protection and local economic development threaten ecological diversity and hinder economic development. The primary purpose of this study is to identify stakeholders involved in the conservation of the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve (NNR) and to clarify any conflicts among them. In the Wuyishan NNR, bamboo and black tea production are the principal industries. Several conflicts were discovered among the stakeholders in the Wuyishan NNR at varying degrees. A major conflict was identified between the Administrative Bureau, local township government, and the village committee regarding issues such as inadequate infrastructure maintenance, ecocompensation monetary values, and wildlife protection. Medium-scale conflicts exist between the Administrative Bureau and local stakeholders from the township government, the village committee, business owners, and farmers. Furthermore, not to be ignored, a minor conflict between farmers and a large number of migrant workers currently engaged in tea farming and bamboo forest management is also contributing to instability of the nature reserve's forestland management. At the same time, stakeholders consider ecotourism development as a means to improve the economic situation of the Wuyishan NNR.

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都市森林公園におけるレクレーションの実態及び訪問客の環境保護意識ー中国福州市国家級森林公園を事例としてー

陳 碧霞

日本森林学会大会発表データベース ( 日本森林学会 )  128 ( 0 ) 790   2017

Type of publication: Research paper (research society, symposium materials, etc.)

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<p>This study examined the use pattern and assessment of suburban forest park in Fuzhou, South China. A questionnaire conducted in November 2015 and January 2016 interviewed 249 face-to-face park visitors. A majority of respondents visited the suburban forest park, accompanied by other family members on the weekend and most stayed for half a day. The respondents assessed the natural/cultural resources and landscape (air, water, vegetation, etc.) as the most satisfying, while facilities (parking lot, transportation to the park) and service (interpretation, crowdedness) were found the least satisfying. Approximately half of the respondents were willing to pay to improve forest park management. The mean willingness-to-pay (WTP) was estimated to be RMB 11.63 (equivalent to USD 1.66). The finding that income had no significant influence on WTP implies that recreational use of the forest park is a basic need for Fuzhou residents.</p>

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Tourist preferences for agricultural landscapes: a case study of terraced paddy fields in Noto Peninsula, Japan

Chen B.

Journal of Mountain Science ( Journal of Mountain Science )  13 ( 10 ) 1880 - 1892   2016.10

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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The State of Conservation and Management of Old Garcinia Subelliptica Trees : A Case Study in Aguni Island, Okinawa Prefecture

Chen Bixia

海岸林学会誌 ( 日本海岸林学会 )  15 ( 1 ) 1 - 6   2016.06 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Fukugi (<i>Garcinia subelliptica</i>) tree lines were planted along the periphery of properties shaping a green landscape on the islands of the Okinawa Prefecture. Throughout the years, these trees have provided diverse ecosystem services, including wind breaking, home cooling, and air purification. However, in recent decades the trees vanished at a fast pace mainly due to human action. This study aimed at clarifying the present distribution of remnant Fukugi trees and evaluating their habitat and health condition in order to establish conservation and management strategies. A total of 3,052 trees, estimated to be over 100 years old, were found in the three hamlets of Aguni Island: Higashi, Nishi, and Hama. Diameter at breast height, tree height, and orientation were measured and tallied for each tree in 2009. In addition to natural hazards such as typhoons, human activities largely degraded tree habitat and health. Lifestyle changes and population loss in the rural areas are among the major reasons contributing to the decrease of Fukugi trees. Private ownership of woodlands is considered a major limitation to restrict the cutting of old trees. Increasing environmental awareness through the education of village inhabitants will be effective for protecting the old trees and conserving the landscape.

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観光開発に関する住民の態度―中国自然保護区を事例にー

陳 碧霞

日本森林学会大会発表データベース ( 日本森林学会 )  127 ( 0 )   2016

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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This study investigated residents' attitudes toward tourism development in nature reserves. Local people have a very positive attitude towards ecotourism development, and considered that they could benefit from the economic activities related to tourism. Residents were supportive of the conservation of natural resources, preservation of culture, sustainable community development, and community participation in ecotourism planning and management. Socio-demographic characteristics also influenced residents' attitudes, for example, younger and more highly educated community members were more likely to support learning more about natural and cultural resources and landscapes. The results suggest that the relevant government agencies should invest in training residents, particularly young, well-educated residents, so they are able to take up alternative employment in the tourism industry in protected areas, such as ecological tour guides and nature interpreters.

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Dimensions and Management of Remnant Garcinia subelliptica Tree Belts Surrounding Homesteads - A Case Study from Two Villages on the Sakishima Islands, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan

陳 碧霞

海岸林学会誌   15-2   1 - 8   2016 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Residents' preference and willingness to conserve homestead woodlands: Coastal villages in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan

Chen B.

Urban Forestry and Urban Greening ( Urban Forestry and Urban Greening )  14 ( 4 ) 919 - 931   2015.01

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Forest Management for Water Resources: Applying a Simulation Model to Analyze Rainfall-Runoff Relationship in Northern Okinawa, Japan

Franky Roring Rocky, Konoshima Masashi, Nakama Yuei, Kurima Genji, Chen Bixia, Hattori Hiroyuki, Maeda Chiharu

Journal of Forest Planning ( 森林計画学会 )  20 ( 1 ) 13 - 26   2015 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Forest management practices influence the availability and quality of water by changing the characteristics of forest site, which in turn affect runoff, infiltration and evaporation rates. Therefore, understanding how forest vegetation impacts the relationship between rainfall and runoff over time is essential for sustainably managing forest for freshwater supplies, especially on remote islands due to their size, locations, geology and topography. However, the tool and /or data for studying a hydrological process of a particular site are/is often not available and even a basic hydrological process of a particular site is often little known. In this study, in the aim of improving our understanding of the hydrological process in an essential watershed on Okinawa Island, we use a simulation model that incorporates a kinematic wave approach to examine rainfall-runoff relationships. We tested the simulation model under various rainfall events to determine its accuracy for projecting runoff discharge. After comparing predicted and observed values, we found the model accurately predicted discharge under moderate and heavy precipitation, but were less accurate for lighter precipitation events. We also explored the modelʼs parameters to identify which values most accurately represent the watershedʼs environmental characteristics. We finally discussed the limitations and the provision for exploring various forest management in using our simulation model and implications for forest management.

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Residents’ Preference and Willingness to Conserve Homestead Woodlands: Coastal Villages in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.

陳 碧霞

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening   14(4)   919 - 931   2015 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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Residents' Preference and Willingness to Pay for Conservation of Homestead Woodlands-a case of coastal villages in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan

Nakama　Yuei,Konoshima　Masashi

研究報告書（島嶼防災研究センター） ( 2011年度トヨタ財団研究助成採択プログラム沖縄・奄美島嶼社会における行政防災施策・制度・システムの歴史的変遷に関する包括的研究 )    133 - 147   2014.05

Type of publication: Research paper (other science council materials etc.)

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Fukugi(Garcinia subelliptica Merr.) tree homestead woodland has prevailed widely along the Ryukyu Islands, the southernmost part of Japan. The homestead woodland has played a key role in protecting the settlements from strong winds, as well as providing timber and green manure and etc. in the past. However, with the rapid urbanization and economic and societal change, homestead woodlands greatly vanish in Japan. The ecological multi functions of forests have been stressed in recent researches. The management and conservation of homestead woodland is little studied, although they have been closely relevant to habitants' wellbeing. The primary purpose of this study is to reveal dwellers' perception of homestead woodlands. The secondary purpose is to explore dwellers' willingness to conserve homestead woodlands by using the contingent valuation method (CVM). Survey was conducted in three hamlets with the best preserved Fukugi homestead woodlands in Okinawa Prefecture. Overwhelming majority of the respondents, accounting for around 91%, preferred homestead woodlands to being conserved. Residents have highly valued the amelioration of micro-climate by homestead woodlands, such as windbreak and cooling the air in summer. In contrast, the contribution to biodiversity was slightly assessed, in particularly, in two small isolated islands. It was revealed that residents at small isolated have highly valued standing Fukugi trees concerning the function of preventing from typhoons. It was found that Fukugi homestead woodlands were considered as private goods by the dwellers as well as local authority. About half of the respondents perceived that the house owners and/or local authority such as hamlet community should be responsible for the conservation. The interesting finding in this study revealed that the residents' attitude toward homestead woodland was significant factor influencing their willingness to pay for woods preservation. Around 25% of the total respondents rejected the payment. Estimated mean and median WTP values were JPY 1,451/household and JPY 1,000/household, respectively. Thus, environmental education and awareness arising will contribute to better conservation of their homestead woodlands. It is urgent to evaluate the non-use value of homestead woodlands as environmental goods and urge local policy makers to include Fukugi homestead woodlands in landscape planning and conservation. （管理者追加）リポジトリ登録情報を移行しました。確認のうえ、加除修正をしてください。

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Thirty years of forest tourism in China

CHEN Bixia, NAKAMA Yuei

Journal of forest research   18 ( 4 ) 285 - 292   2013.08 [ Peer Review Accepted ]

Type of publication: Research paper (scientific journal)

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