Responsible travel to Japan

Discovering responsible travel in Japan means immersing yourself in a country that combines ancient traditions and innovations, while increasingly committing to exemplary sustainable tourism.

Japan is a major world power, straddling two historically rich worlds: tradition and modernity. Following its significant integration into the industrial world and its position among the world's leading emitters of greenhouse gases, the Land of the Rising Sun is suffering the effects of pollution. The issue of responsible travel in Japan is therefore crucial for preserving its beauty and cultural heritage.

Responsible tourism in Japan: a growing trend

Since its inception, your local travel agency in Asia , Shanti Travel, has been committed to responsible tourism in Japan . We raise awareness among our travelers, support environmental organizations, and work with local partners and communities to preserve culture and landscapes.

Japan is multiplying its initiatives in favor of sustainable tourism:

• Labels and certifications : The Japan Sustainable Tourism Standard for Destinations (JSTS-D) certifies cities and regions committed to environmental sustainability (Kyoto, Otaru, Minakami, etc.). These labels guide travelers to destinations where their impact will be minimized.
• Role of local communities : Ecotourism relies on the direct involvement of local people, such as in rural villages or national parks, where tourism supports the economy and the preservation of traditional know-how.
• Sustainable local practices : Many regions are developing immersive experience offerings (hiking, agriculture, crafts, etc.) that encourage respect and understanding of the local environment.
• Choosing slow tourism : Staying longer, favouring less frequented regions and natural parks, enhances heritage without generating overcrowding.

An eco-responsible trip to Japan also means being aware of your impact on the environment and making choices that benefit everyone.

Tips for responsible travel in Japan

• Opt for electric bikes, walking or green transport whenever possible.
• Opt for fabric bags for your purchases and refuse single-use plastic bags.
• Avoid consuming products derived from whaling or endangered species.
• Learn a few words of Japanese to build connections and enhance exchanges with the locals.
• Opt for reusable water bottles and limit your use of the ubiquitous vending machines dispensing plastic bottles.
• Please adhere to the strict rules for waste management and sorting:
  • Check locally for guidelines (they vary depending on the municipality and district).
  • Use the specified bags (often transparent and of different colors depending on the type of waste: combustible, non-combustible, recyclable, cans, glass, plastic…).
  • Please respect the indicated collection days and points; putting out your waste at the wrong time or incorrectly sorted may result in a reprimand.
  • Remember to wash plastics and boxes thoroughly before throwing them away; for bulky waste, an appointment and a paid sticker are often required.
• Opt for eco-friendly or rural accommodations with labels (e.g., HOTEL WHY in Kamikatsu – zero waste, Good Nature Hotel in Kyoto, traditional houses in Best Tourism Villages).
• Limit off-trail trampling, the picking of rare flora and stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
• Reduce your electricity consumption by adopting simple practices in your accommodation.
• Respect local customs (to learn more, read our article on cultural differences in Japan ).
• Participate in activities related to the preservation of traditions and the ecosystem:
  • Visit ecological micro-societies (e.g., Kamikatsu, Fujino) that promote advanced recycling and offer craft workshops with recycled materials.
  • Get an introduction to organic farming or woodworking in Moku-iku (Hokkaido) educational workshops, combining sustainability and learning traditional values.
  • Get involved by staying in eco-villages or by volunteering in organizations that support rural revitalization and local mutual aid.

The country is full of numerous national parks that preserve Japan's rich ecosystem with its hot springs, mountains, and ancient forests. Ecotourism takes on its full meaning here, inviting visitors to observe without disturbing:

• Akan-Mashu National Park (Hokkaido) : Majestic lakes, hiking trails, unspoiled nature… and the opportunity to encounter wild animals such as deer or foxes.
• Yoshino-Kumano National Park (Kansai) : Spectacular in spring with the blooming of thousands of cherry trees.
• Shirakami-Sanchi Park (Northern Honshu) : One of the last temperate forest massifs in Japan, a UNESCO-listed site, absolutely unique and wild.
• Shiretoko Park (Hokkaido) : UNESCO listed, home to protected species (large birds of prey, cetaceans, marine mammals).

To go further

Responsible travel in Japan isn't something you can just wing; it's a respectful mindset that's reflected in every daily action and every travel choice. At Shanti Travel, drawing on our extensive experience in Asia and our dedicated local network, we guide you to explore Japan in a different way, discovering living traditions and unspoiled nature.

To best prepare your responsible trip, talk to our experts about your project, and build a tour that prioritizes immersion, local connection and the preservation of this unique land.