Tokyo

Responsible Travel
Trade Manual1

Contents
5.
Slow Tokyo

10.

Rural Tokyo

15.

Made in Tokyo

19.

Eco Tokyo

21.

Boutique Hotels

23.

Responsible Hotels

2About thisA message from TCVB:
All too often big cities can be seen as impersonal, lacking the human dimension ofsmaller communities. In reality Tokyo, like many cities, is made up of lots of energetic,
innovative communities. It’s in these places that you will often find the most interesting
things to see and do – and many of the best places to stay.
Our aim at TCVB is to help visitors to find and enjoy these special places. Often awayfrom the main tourist routes are businesses and people that will benefit from tourism– and where visitors can enjoy experiences that will live long in the memory.

Travel Trade: Leading Responsible Tourism
We greatly respect the commitment of many travel companies to responsible travel.
We understand you have the opportunity to influence, advise & educate travellers.
We want to work together with the trade by putting forward travel options that offer
the best of Tokyo, enabling tourists to interact with our city in a way that benefits thecity over the longer term.
We are also aware that Tokyo, like many big cities, has some way to go in optimisingsustainable practices. We hope this is a positive step forward and leads to greater
progress in the future.

How responsible?
With the exception of some larger hotel brands, many of the features of this manual
are truly local and small scale and therefore do not come with specific sustainability
measurement standards or certification. Nevertheless, we want to highlight thegood things they are doing that are obviously connected with responsible travel.
This is not exhaustive, and as the topic of responsible tourism gathers more momentum,
we hope more investment in more rigorous standards will follow. We hope it will shinea spotlight on the Tokyo we want to highlight.

Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu, and welcome to Tokyo.

©

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GSTC Criteria:••••

Sustainable management
Socioeconomic impacts
Cultural impacts
Environmental impacts

https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc-criteria/
3

More than a Metropolis
The suburbs
It may be the bright lights and the iconic
images of the throbbing metropolis thatbring travellers to the city, but it is thepeople, the culture and way of life thatthey fall in love with and brings them backagain. While the Shibuya, Shinjuku andAsakusa are essential boxes to check,there is so much more to experience inthe lesser-known suburbs.
A small leap of faith to devote time andenjoy low-key, traditional and emerging
cultures, will give discerning travellers aricher and more authentic Tokyo. They
will also spread the benefits of tourism
away from the hot spots.

The prefecture
Beyond the city limits, Tokyo has many undiscovered attractions way beyond theultra modernity and emerging sub-cultures one typically thinks of. In rural Tokyo you
can find inherited traditional crafts, the formation of local communities and places
rich in untouched nature.

4

Slow
Tokyo

Immersive, authentic, off-track
Turn left, when everyone else is turning rightto get under the skin of Tokyo. Whilst the
majority of visitors opt to stay in Shibuya andShinjuku, there are a few areas offering thechance to live as a local and contributeto disbursing tourism throughout the city.
Relevant GSTC Criteria includes:• Sustainable management• Socioeconomic impacts• Cultural impacts
5

Koenji: The Artisans Village
A hub of creativity and community-led loveliness
Koenji oozes character. The cosy narrow
streets are home to a variety of thrift
stores, vintage clothing, intimate bars andrestaurants. What sets it apart is a collectiveof young artists & entrepreneurs with deep
sense of community and a desire to allow
travellers to connect with real Tokyo culture.
It is perfect for those that want to set aside
time in their travel to get to a deeper
understanding of Tokyo people & alternative
lifestyles.

The Sento Samaritan
Miho-san is your key to Koenji. She has developed the local Sento
into a thriving centre for the local community. Her Kosugiyu team’s
innovations include: a linked workspace to the Sento, repurposing
Japanese cedar wood-chippings for bathwater scenting, superfoods
and local crafts. A community post it at the Sento allows residents toshare issues and solutions to foster real neighbourly support.

Insider TourIn an exclusive arrangement for the trade,
Miho-san or one of her team will give clientsan insider’s tour of the area and introduction
to some of the community’s personalities.
Just mentioning them at of the bars or
restaurants will ensure a heartfelt welcome.

Sento Culture
The Sento has played a huge part incommunities particularly in the post-war
aftermath when homes had no private
bathing facilities. It was a chance forfriends & families to catch-up, and for new
members of the area to integrate. To thisday, proud parents take their newborns
to show them off to the neighbours. City
life can be lonely, except in the Sento.
6

Koenji: A Day in the Life
Where to stay: BnA
For those really wanting a deep dive, thisintimate artists residents, is the perfect baseto immerse in the community. The vision of
BnA’s art director, a resident of Koenji, wanted
a place the removed boundaries between
visitors and locals. With only 2 modest double
rooms this is far from a broad commercial
proposition, but perfect for a certain type of
more intrepid, artsy traveller.

Snapshots of Koenji
Koenji has plenty of experiences to offer thosestaying in the area or just dropping by for anafternoon or evening. It is a photographer’s
dream with little pockets of life compacted
within several narrow streets. Other than thequirky shops, bars and restaurants, Koenji
happens to be the setting for an Awa-Odori
street festival in the summer, where thousands
flock to join in the traditional dance. It is also
home to Japan’s one and only “weather
shrine”!

© Tokyo Koenji Awa-odori

Scenes include:• A ceremony to wish for good
weather at Kisho Shrine• Awa Odori festival in Koenji• Street izakaya• Front desk bar at BnA
7

Yanaka: Ye Olde Tokyo
Downtown Tokyo as it was
Yanaka is part of the old downtown area of Tokyo
known as Yanesen. Yanaka itself is a bustling shopping
street populated by visitors during the day and locals
towards dusk. It has become one of the best areas
for regeneration with quaint temples, narrow streets,wooden houses, cafes, stalls, and restaurants galore.
Other than the main shopping street, spots to visit
include an old cemetary lined with cherry blossom,
Tennoji temple, with a centuries old sitting Buddha andgorgeous little back streets with long time residents
going about their daily lives.
© Yikin Hyo© Yikin Hyo

Hanare Hotel – in their own words

Our reception is located on the upper level of
HAGISO where you find cafe, gallery, a salon andetc. You find your lodgings in the town. You takebaths in your favorite Sento in the town. You findour recommended restaurants in the town. You
find souvenir shops in shopping streets or alley. You
try cultural activities in temples. You rent a bicyclein the shop. You have a breakfast at HAGI CAFE
located on the lower level of HAGISO.

What to do

Yanaka is the perfect place for an explorational walk along the myriad backstreetsand cultural highlights of the broader Yanesen area. For those lucky enough to
be based in Hanare, they are able to give you a map of the area with their own
recommendations. They also offer a guided “Town Walking Tour” to give a real
insider’s perspective.

© Yikin Hyo© Yikin Hyo

8

Shimokita: Hipster Heaven(c)Cityscape/a.collectionRF/amanaimages

Quirky, vibrant, cool for school

7 minutes from Shibuya, Shimokita is to hipster what
Harajuku is to “kawaii”. Primarily known for its staggering
array of vintage clothing stores and fringe theatres, it has
traditionally been a place for the youthful artsy crowd,
with bars and cafes galore popping up along its narrow
streets. A recently completed renovation project, theShimokita Senrogai, worked closely with local residents
and has retained the original charms of the area as well as
providing the infrastructure to support more international
tourism.

MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA
In tune with the vibe of the area, this brand newhotel is hipster to the core. Minimalist design formillennials (and under), the rooms (complete witha vinyl record player) are spacious & functional.
This hotel has a strong ethos of being part of the
Shimokita community, having a large onsite café
used by locals and guests alike. In their words: “Wetry to make this hotel not only a ‘place to stay’, butalso a ‘place to enjoy the town to the fullest’.

What to do
The perfect place to “burabura” (stroll around), people-watch, explore little indie
shops craft cafes & brewpubs – many hosting live music. Whether your taste is fororganic, vegetarian, vegan or “oishi” restaurants you’ll be spoilt for choose. Vintage
clothing has been taken to another level here, not only recycling, but re-making intohigh fashion items. Other things to do include perusing vinyl record stores, small art
galleries, flea markets. Surely that’s enough!

(c)Cityscape/a.collectionRF/amanaimages(c)TAKASHI YAGIHASHI/a.collectionRF/amanaimages

9

RurALTokyo

Deep nature, community and spiritual immersion
Tokyo prefecture beyond the metropolis offers spectacular natureand enchanting rural villages. For travellers more interested in seeing
traditional Japan and wishing to make a positive contribution to local
communities and indigenous heritage, we are showcasing areas that are
rarely accessed by Western travellers to this point. By directing clients tothese areas you will be supporting the following areas of sustainability:• Sustainable management• Socioeconomic impacts• Cultural impacts
10

Mitake: Sacred Shinto Enclave
Mitake: The spirit of Tokyo
The area of Mitake on the outskirts of Tokyo prefectureis the Koyasan of Shintoism. It is built around a sacred
mountain, Mount. Mitake, overlooking the whole ofKanto. Its shrine is said to ward off evil and bring good
harvests and is cared for by over a dozen Shinto priest
families who have formed a surrounding village. 2hours from Tokyo in untouched nature, a visit here
offers enchanting temple lodgings, abundant hiking
options, unique cultural immersion and a deep
spiritual retreat.

Snapshots of Mitake
A totally authentic temple stay,morning Shinto rituals, shrines steepedin folklore perfectly compliment avariety of hiking options which include:• 1.5 hour climb up Mt. Hinode for a
panoramic view over Tokyo• A 2.5 hour trek through rockgardens, along the river andwaterfalls• A 5-hour course, up Mt Otake, fora great view of Mt Fuji

“After leaving Mitake, I realised the weight of theculture. I want to carry on the pride that has continued
uninterruptedly”

Keitaro Baba, 29, is the 18th
generation of Komadori Sanso, alodge with a history of over 300 years(pictured right). After the recent
passing of his father, he is determined
to follow in his footsteps and help
visitors access and understand thespirituality of this sacred area.
Komadori Sanso
11

Mitake Itinerary• Arrive at Mitake Station. Take a short bus rideto Takimoto Station then cable car to Mitake
Station.
• Lunch at a soba restaurant, Momijiya• Check in at Komadori Sanso or Higashi Baba
• Take preferred hiking course, explore the village at
leisure.
• Dine on local cuisine and enjoy the unique Kagura
performance (every 3rd Sunday)• 6.30am – Join thepriest for morning prayers
Komadori Sanso
and/or take a blissful early AM stroll throughthe Mitake Shrine• Breakfast at accommodation before anotherhike of your choosing. The recommended course is a
5-hour round trip course, up Mt. Odake for a spectacular
view of Mt. Fuji.

Higashi Baba
12

Ome: Rural Regeneration
The Marugoto Hotel ProjectThis innovative project is bringing new life (and tourism)to the JR Ome line and local communities. Rarely usedstation buildings and traditional housing are developing
into boutique accommodation. Experience showcasing
cuisine, culture & natural scenery offer
the chance for immersive interaction withthe local community. This endeavour,passionately led by Shimada-san (pictured
right), is planned for completion in 2026,
but a program is available for more intrepid
travellers for the end of 2023.

Snapshots of the villages
The picturesque villages dotted along
the Ome line offer travellers the quaintrural community lifestyles one would expect to in
deepest untouched Shikoku. Guest are met at thetrain station by their concierge and offered activities
which include cycling,hiking, forest bathing andfoodie tours.
The area, just over anhour on a straight run from
Shinjuku offers breathtaking
natural scenery and 100% locally sourced cuisine. For clients
passionate about sustainable tourism and connecting with
untouched Japan it is unrivalled in its accessibility andoriginality.
Initially, only 1 lodging is available from the end of 2023, with
5-8 other boutique options under development. This manualis the travel trades very first glimpse of the project. You heard
it here first ;-)13

Ome ItinerarY(Coming Soon)

Arrive midday for an Ozawa Sake Brewery
tour or Forest Therapy/hiking at either
Noborikei Trail or Hatonosu Gorge walk.
• Check-in at Kozato Hotel• Explore the local villages by bicycle andenjoy the hotel sauna• Pairing dinner of locally sourced cuisinewith Ozawa sake. Enjoy the peaceful rural
surroundings and drinks by the evening bonfire• Meditation time by the river• Breakfast of fresh ingredients from
Okutama & Ome• Morning exploration of villages or trail hiking• Lunch at recommended local café
Yamahato before returning to Tokyo or
onwards to Yamanashi

14MAde InTokyo

The best of home grown
In this section we are celebrating that which is uniqueto Tokyo, giving travellers the chance to help Tokyo
preserve its own distinct character. We are also
including indigenous cultural experiences available
in Tokyo. These deserve a special mention for thegreat work they are doing in keeping Japan’s original
cultural arts & crafts thriving through tourism. Relevant
GTSC Criteria includes:• Socioeconomic impacts• Cultural impacts
15

Arts & Crafts
Edo Kiriko - Kobayashi Studios
Edo Kiriko, now a wildly popular traditional artwork, first madeits appearance in the 1800s in the capital (then known as
Edo) and soon spread throughout the country. The delicate
thinness & detailed craftsmanship set it apart from otherglassware in the world. The Kobayashi family have continued
the tradition of Japan’s finest glassware for four generations.
At their studio in Sumiyoshi, you can witness the masters inaction in a 2 hour immersive experience.

Noh Theatre – My Taiken

One of the oldest surviving forms of theater in the world, Noh has
been designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
MyTaiken unveils the mysteries of the art form with a theatre that
opens its doors exclusively for travellers. Its practicing Noh masters
offer an introduction about the origin and meaning of Noh and a
private demonstration in a 1.5 hour experience in central Tokyo.
The experience can also be customised to client preferences.

TeamLab Planets Tokyo

teamLab, Floating Flower Garden; Flowers and I are of theSame Root, the Garden and I are One © teamLab

No one showcases the wonders of nature quite
like TeamLab Planets Tokyo. One of their latest
masterpieces celebrates a “one of a kind” Japaneseorchid - allowing visitors to immerse themselves in over
13,000 live flowers. The exhibit also inspired a Ramendish, lavishly decorated in edible flowers, at their onsite
Vegan Ramen restaurant. The exhibit has thankfully
been extended until the end of 2023. Not to be missed.

Kintsugi – Wabunka© Yikin Hyo

Kintsugi Life is an artistic collective formed around masterkintsugi and lacquer craftspeople. Their Roppongi Hills shop,‘g KEYAKIZAKA’, is the setting for an experience wherein guests
can repair beloved items in a single day. They also learn about
Kintsugi, which has its roots in Japanese Zen Buddhism and wabisabi philosophy- beauty in imperfection. This is an opportunity
to learn not only the history and techniques of kintsugi, but how
it expresses and has influenced Japanese aesthetics.

16

Indigenous Culinary Arts
Sokkon Cha & Kaiseki

The tea ceremony here is an immersive but also highly
innovative and truly memorable experience. Over two hours,
guests will discover the culture and wonder of this mesmerisingritual but also the hospitality – the food and sake pairing – thatusually surrounds the ceremony. The experience begins witha traditional omogashi sweet, followed by the tea ceremony,held inside a tiny wabi-sabi style teahouse created inside
Sokkon’s basement space. Located near Omotesando.

Sougo – Shojin RyoriThis is an ancient plant-based style of cooking established in the
3th century by Zen Buddhist monks. The dishes are meat free,
distinctive for their beauty and purity. They convey the profoundspirit of Buddhism, the beauty of the seasons, and respect for
all living things. This ever so stylish restaurant in Roppongi, fromchef and owner Daisuke Nomura, brings a fresh and modern
approach. It also makes it accessible and “oishii” for vegans,vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. As much of the produce usedis Tokyo grown scoring visitors even more good karma points.

Amezaiku

Part theatre, part sweet treat, Amezaiku are sugar sculpturesthat originated in 8th-century Japan. Made by pulling andshaping molten sugar, artisans would create edible, life-like
sculptures with the appearance of glass. Ameshin is amongfew remaining makers in Tokyo and has a small workshop
where visitors can learn how to make their own amezaiku,
in the shape of a rabbit, in a guided, 90-minute session.

Folklore: Mixology & Terroir

A new outlet from the Mixology group, “Folklore” inGinza applies Japanese master craftsmanship to theart of cocktails. It uses sake, tea, shochu, and domestic
spirits, to make new cocktails blended with Western
liquors while incorporating the terroir (regional culture)© YikinofHyo
the production area into the drinking vessels andingredients.

17

Responsible Restaurants
Komorebi
Komorebi, located in Nerima, celebrates the qualityof Tokyo-made ingredients through its French cookery
techniques and the traditional craft Japanese tableware
its dishes are served on. It works closely with local suppliers,and over 90% of the ingredients used at the restaurant aresourced from within Tokyo prefecture, including Nerima
vegetables, Akikawa Kuroge Wagyu Beef, and Ome city
river fish.

MIKUNI MARUNOUCHIThis popular French restaurant in Ginza offers healthyseasonal dishes centred on natural vegetables from
Tokyo and carefully selected ingredients from allover the country. Many of its dishes feature native
Edo-Tokyo vegetables to convey the importantfood culture that has been forgotten, and all areserved on Japanese made pottery made fromJapanese soil.

Matsunozushi. Edomae-styleMatsunozushi, one of Tokyo’s most iconic sushi
restaurants, started by the Tezuka family as a street
stall in 1910. Four generation laters, head chef Yoshi(Tezuka) will introduce guests to the history and cultureof Sushi, while serving a combination of the freshest
fish, fine Edo-Style Sushi craftsmanship, and delicate
Japanese cuisine. They are also featured in the blue
seafood guide for using ethically sourced seafood.

Ae – Ash© Yikin Hyo

Located in Shibuya, Ash is a minimalist zero-waste cafébar serving drinks and snacks. Everything it does is withsustainability in mind – uniforms are made from recycled
paper, menus and payments are digital, leftoveringredients such as citrus peels are used to create theirzero-waste classic cocktails, and coffee grounds are
donated to local farms to use as compost.

18

Eco

Tokyo

Light Footprint Travel & Experiences
Activities that involve the great outdoors of Tokyo. In thissection we are showcasing local experiences providers
giving travellers the chance to explore Tokyo with a low
carbon impact but high impact in terms of gaining goodkarma points. Relevant GTSC Criteria includes:• Socioeconomic impacts• Environmental impacts

19

Eco Touring
Tokyo Bike Rentals

Now a global brand, making and renting out bikes, it has
humble origins in Yanaka, where it developed the conceptof ”Tokyo Slow” - immersive, low impact travel around thecity. Its current flagship store, located 15 minutes from Tokyo
station in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. It’s a great place to start the
day with quality coffee , countless ideas for the day ahead
and a colourful range of bicycles for touring the streets ofTokyo. Naka-meguro, one of the best kept secret viewing
spots for sakura is another option for a 1 day bike rental.

DIG Tokyo Tours
Koenji resident Andy, launched DIG Tokyo Tours with the aim ofcrafting unique, socially responsible and immersive experiences in
the captivating local neighbourhoods on Tokyo’s inner west-side. A
solo operated Tokyo cycling, street-food and walking tour provider,Andy can remove any FOMO* by using his in-depth insider knowledge
and network to provide unforgettable, authentic local experiences.
*Fear of missing out

Tokyo Great Kayaking TourIts 5 routes of the city include an evening tour to see the spectacular
illuminations over the Sumida River and a special cherry blossom route
along sakura lined canals. These tours offer a unique way to interact
with a local guide, see major landmarks and attractions, and learn
the history of the city. The same company also offer fantastic cycling
tours in which the guides place an emphasis on educating travellers
on local history and culture, as well as exploring off-track Tokyo.

Tokyo Terra Farm

Have the chance to be utterly overwhelmed by cuteness at
this delightful community farm experience provider. Mainly
designed to encourage increased connectivity with foodsources and more time outdoors for children, Tokyo’s Earthfarm offers year round harvesting opportunities for all willing
participants, including international tourists. Located near Ome© Yikinon
Hyothe outskirts of Tokyo, it is a little inaccessible and at present
best-suited to the most determined of intrepid, ethical travellers.

20

BoutiqueTokyo

Indie, authentic, experiential
Classical, modern Ryokan or something just a bit different,
here is our list of the best of boutique. Stays at these properties
offer clients the chance to immerse themselves live, breathand sleep somewhere uniquely Tokyo at the same time as
rewarding originality, authenticity and things bold enoughto stand alone. Relevant GTSC Criteria includes:• Socioeconomic impacts• Cultural impacts
21

Tokyo Originals
Ito Ryokan

A 70 year old Japanese-style home in Nihonbashi Ningyochooffering a true homely experience: the fragrance of the tatami& wooden interior; exchanges of “Tadaima” & ”Okaeri”
between guests & staff; cultural activities such as “shamisen”,
calligraphy, tea ceremony, cooking and “rakugo”. In August
2023, a VIP room with a “tsuboniwa” garden will be opened.

AraiyaLive like a local in your own “machiya” (traditional wooden
townhouse), tucked away in a residential area of central
Tokyo. However, very few residents get to live in the historicstyle and ambiance that Araiya – once a rice shop serving
the local community – delivers. Up to a maximum of fiveguests are looked after by their very own concierge.

K5

Perhaps Tokyo’s most fashionable small boutique hotel at the
moment, the K5 in the storied Nihonbashi area proudly boasts
of its ethical, low-impact approach – “existing with nature in
the city”. There are only 20 rooms, each and every one of themunique and utterly awesome, and you’ll also find a restaurantand ‘beer-hall’ style bar. For the seriously-hip – and ethical – only.

Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa

It only takes a brief glance at the website to know ‘they
got it right’. Small and intimate, modern yet ever-sotasteful, always welcoming and close to many of thecapital’s big-ticket sights in Asakusa. A truly boutiqueexperience, the antitheses of a large mega-chain-hotel.

Andon Ryokan
When it opened as “Tokyo’s first designer ryokan” twenty years
ago, the idea was to welcome overseas guests as a local. And
this is why they invite you to eat, as they do, from the familytable when you visit ‘Andon’ – this is an immersive, insiders
Japan-experience.
22

Responsible
HotelsHotels setting an example
With an abundance of hotels to choose from in Tokyo, we havereviewed the policies and accreditations of many of the major
hotels and hotel groups to identify those that place an emphasis
on sustainable policies. This list is not exhaustive so please be
sure to consider other hotels for yourselves. This is just to give youa bit of a head start. Relevant GTSC Criteria includes:••••

Sustainability Management
Socioeconomic impacts
Cultural Impacts
Environmental impacts
23Responsible Hotels
ANA InterContinental Tokyo
Located in Akasaka, the hotel has been actively driving awareness of theimportance of social responsibility. ANA InterContinental Tokyo has beensteadily implementing multiple actions to enforce sustainability to becomea socially responsible organization. This includes “IHG Green Engage”, an
online environmental sustainability system to measure and manage theimpact on the environment and food resource recycling using compost
production equipment.

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
The flagship hotel of the Tokyu group, The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, wasJapan’s first global brand hotel in 1963, just prior to the Tokyo Olympic
games. It now leads the way with a comprehensive sustainability strategy
including a Green Coin and Green Card Programme, wooden straws
and initiatives targeting sustainable gastronomic practices.

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
A tranquil oasis in the bustle of Tokyo, built in an area with rich andcolorful 700-year history. Culture and history abound along the lush
garden that have been preserved by its owners over the generations.
The love of nature is apparent in the myriad eco-friendly activities
including plastic reduction, flora & fauna preservation and youth
engagement programs in the hotel gardens.

Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
Upon its opening in 1928, it became a hotspot for Tokyo’s high society.
It has since been carefully transformed to a boutique hotel withenchanting Japanese traditional art throughout the premises andtranquil Japanese gardens. By day, explore its surroundings - the everso hip Meguro - filled with local shops and cafes, with a canal lined withcherry blossoms in spring.

© Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
As solid, trusty and reliable as they come. As a staple hotel for much of
the travel trade it is great to see that the Keio is Ecomark accredited
and thorough in its SDG policies. They include commitments to abarrier free and universal service for guests, extensive eco measures
including its own water purification facility. There are also progressive
work satisfaction options for employees.
24Responsible Hotels
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
Founded in 1890, the hotel has a rich story to tell, inheriting Frank Lloyd
Wright’s design and welcoming numerous celebrities and heads ofstate, including Marilyn Monroe. It is EcoMark certified and has published
a comprehensive sustainability report as part of its commitment to the
SDGs since 2020, and this year it presented a decarbonisation roadmap.

Mitsui Fudosan Hotel Management Co., Ltd.

This hotel group have accredited properties all around Japan,
including Tokyo, under the Mitsui Garden Hotels, The Celestine
Hotels, and sequence brands. All of these progressive, modern
chains have set six goals to focus on including local produce andconsumption, reduction of plastic resources and environmental
impact, and implementation of social contributions.

Hotel New Otani Tokyo
Since its opening in 1964, harmonizing with the environment has
been a priority for the hotel and included a major remodelling of“The Main” building, completed in 2007. Prior to this their “Hybrid
Hotel Project” was launched, which included energy saving aircon& kitchen systems, a biotope stream in its garden to attract fireflies,
a water recycling plant and composting from their own kitchen. The
composting produces vegetables which served at some of theirrestaurant.

NOHGA HOTEL (UENO/AKIHABARA)

Super trendy hotels in lesser known bases in Tokyo. A
good match for a younger demographic in terms ofaesthetic and ethos. A strong focus on supporting the
local neighbourhood, maxing greenness, and ecofriendly energy control and waste measures.

The Okura Tokyo“A hotel with Japanese characteristics that will satisfy
distinguished guests from all over the world” was the vision offounder Kishichiro Okura (1882-1963). To this day its commitment
to showcasing Japanese beauty, culture and originality runs
through comprehensive eco & socially responsible policies.

25

Responsible Hotels
OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka by Hoshino Resorts© Hoshino Resorts

Hoshino Resorts is using its considerable pulling power to baseand engage clients in the lesser known area of Otsuka. The
hotel is as much, if not more, about showcasing the area thanthe property itself – making a concerted effort to strengthening
cooperative relationships with local restaurants, cafes, bars,
shops, museums, and other businesses.

Palace Hotel
A Tokyo icon - situated at 1-1-1 Marunouchi overlooking the Imperial
Palace Gardens with a legacy going back more than half a century. From
the distinctive ”omotenashi” to the subtle Japanese touches throughout,the wholly Japanese-owned and managed hotel is home-grown throughand through. Their sustainability practice extends to food & plastics waste
reduction, community initiatives, preserving culture & art and decarbonising.

RIHGA Royal Hotel Tokyo
RIHGA Royal Hotel Tokyo is situated in Waseda, a land of culture
and tradition, adjacent to Okuma Garden offering beautiful viewsof the season’s landscapes. As well as having an Ecomark, It alsooffers extensive information on its Eco practices – plastic minimisation,
reducing food waste, biodegradable straw and paperless operations.

Shiba Park HotelA pioneer in wearing its heart on its sleeve in its desire to connect
people, towns and history through a “library hotel” concept. It
has a juicy SDGs related policy that is particularly comprehensive
on environmentals. Examples include Millenium Organics
Amenities (plant based and chemical free), Eco amenities(avoiding plastic usage), Bamboo materials, Rainforest Alliancecertified products and recycled paper water bottles! Bravo.

Super Hotel Premier
An ultra-modern Japanese hipster chain advocating LOHAS(lifestyles for health and sustainability) and services based on
the themes of ‘natural’, ‘organic’ and ‘smart’. It is characterized
by efficient, eco-friendly services and also healthy breakfast in
their restaurants.
26

Certified Hotels
Hotel Name

Standard

URL (related to sustainability)

HOTEL NIWA TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://www.hotelniwa.jp/hospitality/stay/safety.html

IMPERIAL HOTEL TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/tokyo/pdf/sustainability_report_2022.pdf

KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://www.keioplaza.com/sdgs/index.html

mesm Tokyo Autograph Collection

Sakura Quality An ESG
Practice Standard

https://www.gstcouncil.org/sakura-quality-an-esg-practice-standard-gstc-recognized/

Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Tokyo

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza-gochome

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Gotanda

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Otemachi

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Toyosu PREMIER

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

NOHGA HOTEL AKIHABARA TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://nohgahotel.com/akihabara/en/aboutus/#environment

NOHGA HOTEL UENO TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://nohgahotel.com/ueno/en/aboutus/environment/

PALACE HOTEL TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://en.palacehoteltokyo.com/hotel-overview/sustainability-concept/

RIHGA ROYAL HOTEL TOKYO

Eco Mark

https://www.rihga.co.jp/en/sustainability

sequence MIYASHITA PARK

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

sequence SUIDOBASHI

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

Super Hotel Premier Akasaka

Eco Mark

https://www.superhoteljapan.com/en/otoku/lohas_
stay/Super Hotel Premier Tokyo-eki Yaesu Chuo-guchi

Eco Mark

https://www.superhoteljapan.com/en/otoku/lohas_
stay/Super Hotel Premier Ginza

Eco Mark

https://www.superhoteljapan.com/en/otoku/lohas_
stay/

THE CELESTINE GINZA

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

THE CELESTINE TOKYO SHIBA

Eco Mark

https://corp.gardenhotels.co.jp/eng/environment/

The Peninsula Tokyo

EarthCheck

https://www.peninsula.com/en/global-pages/sustainable-luxury

Hotels are certified either:••by GSTC-Recognized standards for Hotels
ecolabels(As of 10/03/2023)

GSTC- Recognized Standards for Hotels
Eco Mark Program (JEA)

27

Contents
Theme
Slow Tokyo

Rural Tokyo

Made in Tokyo - Arts & Crafts

Made in Tokyo - Indigenous
Culinary Arts

Made in Tokyo - Responsible
Restaurant

Eco Tokyo

Boutique Hotels

Responsible Hotels

Area

Item Type

Name & URL

Koenjiexperience

Kosugiyu

Koenjiaccomodation

BnA

Yanakaaccomodation

hanareShimokitazawa

accomodation

MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA

Mitakeaccomodation

Komadorisanso

Mitakeaccomodation

Higashibaba

Omeaccomodation

Marugoto Hotel Project

Ginza

experience

Noh Theatre

Sumiyoshi

experience

Edo Kiriko

Toyosuexperience

TeamLab Planets Tokyo

Roppongi

experience

Wabunka

Aoyamaexperience

Sokkon Cha & Kaiseki

Roppongi

restaurant

Sougo – Shojin Ryori

Asakusa

experience

Amezaiku

Ginza

restaurant

Mixology

Nerimarestaurant

Komorebi

Ginza

restaurant

Mikuni MARUNOUCHI

Omori

restaurant

Matsunozushi

Shibuyarestaurant

Ae – Ash

Kiyosuimishirakawa & Nakameguro

experience

Tokyo Bike Rentals

Koenjiexperience

Cycling Tours

Nihonbashi

experience

Kayaking

Okutamaexperience

Tokyo Terra Farm

Nihombashi Ningyocho

accomodation

Ito Ryokan

Takanawa

accomodation

AraiyaNIhonbashi

accomodation

K5

Minowaaccomodation

Andon Ryokan

Asakusa

accomodation

cya shitsu ryokan

Akasaka

accomodation

ANA InterContinental Tokyo

Akasaka

accomodation

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu

Edogawabashi

accomodation

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo

Meguroaccomodation

Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

Shinjuku

accomodation

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Ginza

accomodation

Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

Multiple locations

accomodation

Mitsui Fudosan Hotel Management Co.,LTD

Akasaka

accomodation

Hotel New Otani Tokyo

Ueno

accomodation

NOHGA HOTEL UENO TOKYO

Akihabaraaccomodation

NOHGA HOTEL AKIHABARA TOKYO

Toranomon

accomodation

The Okura Tokyo

Otsukaaccomodation

OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka by Hoshino Resorts

Marunouchi

accomodation

Palace Hotel

Wasedaaccomodation

RIHGA Royal Hotel

Hamamatsucho

accomodation

Shiba Park Hotel

Multiple locations

accomodation

Super Hotel Premier

How to contact:
Please talk to your Japan DMC about making contact with the local suppliers. If they/you need further info
please get in touch with Japan-san at the following address: contact@japan-san.net
28

Thank You(for being ever so responsible)@Marugoto Hotel

Published in 2023 by TCVB & Jalan Research Center29