Learn about sea turtles through hands-on research experiences

Each year, hundreds of endangered green, loggerhead, and hawksbill sea turtles are threatened by unintended capture in fishing nets, intentional killing, egg poaching, and degradation of their nesting beaches. Coastal development, ocean pollution, and climate change also present obstacles to their conservation.

From April to November, these species come to the shores of Kyushu to lay their eggs and feed. Many find their way to the 270-kilometer coastline of Saiki in Oita, within Nippo Kaigan Quasi-National Park.

The Carapace Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, on the Tsurumi Peninsula in Saiki, specializes in the research and conservation of sea turtles. Turtles that are injured by fishing nets are rescued and rehabilitated until they can safely be returned to the sea.

Carapace offers visitors the chance to interact with sea turtles in their research experience programs. Participants can gain a deeper understanding of sea turtle biology and ecology through a hands-on scientific approach. Activities include measuring and weighing sea turtles, and learning about the center's rehabilitation programs. Participants may also have the opportunity to release rehabilitated sea turtles back into the ocean.

The Carapace research program offers observation of the sea turtles from the water in a way that does not burden them. Depending on the timing, there may even be a chance to see loggerhead turtles laying eggs.

Carapace incorporates education for sustainable development in its programs in the hope of bringing nature and people closer together. Experience the wonders of the sea through sea turtle conservation.