Planning Your Next Trip to Japan: A Traveler’s Guide to Sustainable and Meaningful Experiences

Explore Asia's Dynamic ESG Landscape

In this week's edition, we highlight how tourism in Japan intersects with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. With record-breaking visitor numbers in 2024, Japan stands at the crossroads of promoting tourism while preserving its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Learn how you can plan a trip that not only explores Japan’s wonders but also supports its sustainability efforts. Dive in to discover practical ways to make your journey meaningful and impactful.

As you plan your next adventure to Japan, the idea of experiencing its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and deep history is exciting. But what if your trip could also contribute to preserving the very things that make Japan so special? By incorporating sustainability into your travel plans, you can ensure your visit leaves a positive impact on the environment, supports local communities, and respects cultural heritage. Here’s how to make your next trip to Japan unforgettable—and meaningful.

In 2024, Japan welcomed approximately 36.87 million foreign visitors, a record-breaking number that surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Visitor spending reached an impressive 8.1 trillion yen (approximately $51.57 billion), highlighting the growing interest in Japan as a travel destination. This surge, however, has brought challenges that underscore the importance of sustainable travel practices. This guide empowers travelers to make their next trip to Japan unforgettable—and sustainable.

1. Start with a Sustainable Itinerary

Explore Beyond the Hotspots

While Kyoto, Tokyo, and Mount Fuji are iconic, Japan offers countless lesser-known treasures:

• Discover the tranquil beauty of Shikoku’s hidden temples or the remote islands of Okinawa.
• Embrace the charm of rural Japan in places like Tottori, known for its sand dunes, or Akita, with its festivals and natural hot springs.

Plan Around the Seasons

• Experience cherry blossoms in smaller towns like Kanazawa or Hirosaki, where crowds are thinner.
• Visit in off-peak months to enjoy Japan’s wonders at a more relaxed pace while reducing strain on popular destinations.

2. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Stay Green

Opt for hotels and ryokans committed to sustainability:

• Look for certifications like Green Key or properties using renewable energy and offering local, organic food.
• Stay in eco-lodges in areas like the Japanese Alps or near Lake Biwa for a nature-immersive experience.

Engage with the Local Culture

• Experience a stay at a minpaku (traditional homestay) to connect with locals and learn about their way of life.
• Participate in community-led activities, such as rice planting or craft workshops, for a deeper connection.

3. Travel Responsibly Within Japan

Choose Sustainable Transportation

• Use Japan’s efficient public transportation system, such as the Shinkansen (bullet trains), which are both eco-friendly and convenient.
• Rent a bicycle to explore cities like Kyoto or Nara at your own pace while reducing your carbon footprint.

Pack Light, Travel Smart

• Bring reusable items like water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags to reduce single-use plastics.
• Consider offsetting your flight emissions through carbon credit programs.

4. Engage in Meaningful Activities

Support Local Artisans and Traditions

• Visit small, family-owned businesses like traditional sake breweries or pottery studios in rural areas.
• Shop for locally made crafts, such as Kyoto’s Kyo-yaki ceramics or Ishikawa’s gold leaf products.

Give Back Through Your Visit

• Volunteer a day to help in reforestation projects or community clean-ups in places like Mount Fuji.
• Participate in sustainable tourism initiatives, like farm-to-table dining experiences or guided eco-tours.

5. Embrace the Spirit of Omotenashi (Hospitality)

Japan’s renowned hospitality is rooted in respect and care for others. As you travel:

• Respect local customs, such as removing your shoes when entering homes or temples.
• Learn a few simple Japanese phrases to show appreciation, like "Arigatou" (thank you) or "Sumimasen" (excuse me).

6. Leave a Lasting Positive Impact

• Share your experiences to inspire others to explore Japan responsibly.
• Provide constructive feedback to local businesses about their eco-friendly initiatives.
• Reflect on how your journey contributed not just to your own memories but also to the preservation of Japan’s unique culture and environment.

Your next trip to Japan can be more than a vacation—it can be a journey that supports the beauty, culture, and communities of this incredible country. By planning thoughtfully and embracing sustainable travel, you’re not just a visitor; you’re a partner in preserving the magic of Japan for generations to come.

Ready to embark on a trip that matters? Start planning today! Explore hidden gems, support local artisans, and create memories that leave a positive impact. Use resources from Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and JETRO - Japan External Trade Organization to craft a truly meaningful experience. For a deeper dive into Japan’s evolving ESG landscape, explore our YouTube playlist, '???? Japan ESG Headlines.' Stay informed with daily updates on green finance, corporate governance reforms, and innovations shaping Japan’s sustainable future.