Successful GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training sponsored by Towada Travel

The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course, sponsored by Towada Travel for both its employees and local business operators, was held from March 20 to 22, 2025, in Towada, Aomori, Japan. Led by GSTC Trainer Kazuhiro Arai, Representative of Daisetsuzan Nature School, the training provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the GSTC Standards and sustainable tourism practices.

During the site visits, students had the opportunity to explore several key locations that exemplify sustainable tourism in practice. At the Towada Visitor Center, they gained insights into the region’s unique natural environment and the efforts being made to preserve it through educational exhibits and interactive displays. The visit to Towada Shrine offered a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, set within a serene natural setting that emphasizes the harmony between tradition and the environment. Finally, at the canteen & micro-hotel uqui, participants observed how sustainability can be integrated into hospitality through locally sourced food and thoughtful design.

Successful GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training sponsored by Towada Travel

“Lake Towada is a caldera lake over 300 meters deep, with nearby hot springs. The river flowing out from the lake forms the Oirase Gorge, which became a popular tourist destination in the 1900s due to its scenic beauty. Although a national highway runs along the gorge, in order to preserve the tranquility and cleanliness of the area, vehicle access on this highway will be restricted, and a bypass has been constructed. Local guides, tourism associations, hotels and museum staff participated in active discussions on creating a sustainable tourism destination in the region, using the GSTC Criteria as a reference,” Said Mr. Arai.

The training highlighted the value of embedding sustainability principles within tourism management and destination stewardship, giving students a firsthand look at how Japanese communities are implementing sustainable tourism to safeguard their natural and cultural heritage.

If you are interested in contributing to the industry’s sustainable transformation, consider checking out GSTC’s upcoming courses here.