The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training was conducted as part of an agreement between JTB and the Kyoto Branch of the Ryokan Hotel Federation in Kyoto, Japan, from July 7 to 9, 2025.
GSTC Trainer Kazuhiro Arai, CEO of Daisetsuzan Experience, shared his knowledge and expertise along with Naomi Oiwa, GSTC’s Japan Market Development Manager. Together, they guided participants through key concepts of sustainable tourism and the practical application of the GSTC Standards (known previously as GSTC Criteria), which serve as the global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism.
As part of the training, participants also took part in a site visit to Ace Hotel Kyoto to learn firsthand about sustainability initiatives implemented within an urban hotel environment. In addition, participants visited the Ikeuchi Organic Kyoto Store and Kyoto Nishiki Market Shopping Street, gaining a deeper understanding of local sustainable business practices and the connection between community, culture, and tourism.
This interactive learning experience deepened participants’ understanding of both the challenges and opportunities in sustainable tourism, while also fostering meaningful connections among the 20 attendees, all united by a shared commitment to advancing positive change within the industry.
If you are interested in contributing to the industry’s sustainable transformation, consider checking out GSTC’s upcoming courses here.
