East Asian Temperate Forests

Maples, magnolias and macaques from Japan to central China.

The temperate forests of Japan, Korea and eastern and central China are among the richest in the world outside the tropics. Many tree groups here also live in eastern North America, a legacy of a shared ancient forest.

Seasonal colour and blossom are woven into local culture.

The Landscape

Broadleaf forests of oak, beech, maple and magnolia merge into conifer and bamboo forest in the mountains. Heavy summer rains and cold winters shape the cycle of the year.

Who Lives Here

Japanese Macaques bathe in hot springs in snowy winters, Asiatic Black Bears and Japanese Serow live in the mountains, and Red-crowned Cranes winter in Hokkaido. In central China's mountain forests, Giant Pandas depend on bamboo.

Through The Year

Spring brings cherry and magnolia blossom, summer is humid with cicadas, and autumn colour is spectacular. Winter snow transforms the high forests.

Pressures And Care

Forest fragmentation, ageing plantations, deer overpopulation and pressure on bamboo forests are key concerns. Protected reserves and corridors help species such as the Giant Panda.

Visiting Well

Respect local customs, stay on trails, and keep well away from macaques and bears and do not feed them.

Look for

Japanese Macaque
Red-crowned Crane
Asiatic Black Bear
Japanese Maple
Ginkgo

Often a good time to visit: April, May, October, November. Conditions vary from year to year and place to place.

Related habitats

Woodland

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