During his recent visit to Japan for the GSTC Japan Members Workshop 2025, GSTC CEO Randy Durband met with the Deputy Mayor of Sapporo, Osamu Kato, at the Sapporo City Hall on the 22nd of September, 2025.
The discussion focused on the establishment of Sapporo’s new Destination Management Organization (DMO), which is set to be launched as part of the city’s broader strategy to strengthen destination governance and ensure tourism contributes positively to local communities. Both sides emphasized the importance of developing a coordinated approach that strikes a balance between economic growth and environmental and cultural preservation. They also addressed the challenge of overtourism, recognizing the need to manage visitor flows in a way that protects the city’s quality of life and natural assets. In this context, the conversation emphasized the importance of visitor dispersion, encouraging travelers to explore lesser-known neighborhoods and nearby areas beyond the main attractions. Such an approach not only helps reduce pressure on popular sites but also supports local businesses and enhances the overall visitor experience.
GSTC Staff were also at the meeting: Emi Kaiwa, GSTC Finance Director, Dr. Soohyun Kwon, GSTC Asia Market Development Manager, Naomi Oiwa GSTC Japan Market Development Manager and Mei-Han Feng, GSTC Membership Coordinator.
City of Sapporo, which joined the GSTC as a member last year, aims to continue strengthening its commitment to sustainable tourism. The city has been particularly active in promoting sustainable MICE events, led by the Sapporo Convention Bureau, which has long worked to align local initiatives with global standards for sustainable event management.
Last year, the city also hosted an on-site GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course, sponsored by the City of Sapporo, for its employees and stakeholders.
The meeting between Mr. Durband and Deputy Mayor Osamu Kato, reaffirmed the city’s alignment with the GSTC framework, advancing sustainability practices in the region.
