Sustainability Projects
Kyoto by the Sea DMO is involved in a number of projects aimed at preserving, protecting, and improving the environment, traditional culture, and communities in the region. We would like to highlight just a few here.
Trade partnerships
2022, for many regions in Japan, was a time for development and planning as we waited for the borders to open. We wanted to build back better, and created a long term plan for promoting the area that relies on everyone’s cooperation: from mindful tour operators to the local communities we represent.
With the help of marketing partner, Japan-san, we spent the year building relationships with sustainabilty-minded travel agents. Our key travel partners were also integral to the development of sustainable programs in our area focused around the delicate boat house village of Ine.
We solicitated feedback and consulted both local businesses and our trade partners to develop visits that would positively impact Ine’s local community, craftspeople and local businesses in the greater Kyoto by the Sea area, while at the same time aiming to minimize the environmental impacts associated with this development.
The results of our first year garnered the Kyoto by the Sea region as “Ones to Watch” at World Travel Mart London. We were the only region in Japan to be recognized with an award at the 2022 World Responsible Tourism Awards.
Beyond that, we continue to further our sustainable developments and are indepted to our partners for supporting our multi-year vision for the future of tourism in the region.
Community programs for travel and education
The Kyoto by the Sea region is lucky to have a large group of industry leaders looking to both improve their businesses in regards to sustainability and help others with the process.
The Community-based Discovery & Design Program is an initiative to connect individuals and businesses interested in sustainability with leaders in our region who are dedicated to sustainable practices. The programs are both educational and creative, and span the entire region, from the mountains to Japanese Sea.
Learn more about these experiencs by downloading the PDF linked in the picture, or checking out our Sustainable Experiences page.
foot powered travel
We have been working with local English speaking guides and e-bike touring companies that have developed in the region to offer visitors a chance to travel slowly through the area. We want visitors to be able to visit the Kyoto by the Sea region without renting a car, without having to compromise on the experiences they can have.
2022 saw developments of half day walking tours along the ancient pilgrimage route of Amanohashidate, and historical port city of Maizuru and seaside village of Yoshihara. The walking tours are designed to tell a story, taking the visitor into the past and back.
Amanohashidate upside down: the real way to see it
Maizuru’s Yoshihara fishing village
The development of e-bike and cycling tours in the area have made traveling throughout the region much easier without a car. Most of the region’s e-bike rentals are conveniently located at or near train stations, making it possible to arrive and visit areas easily without a car. Of course the buses are always a reliable option as well.
100km Oni Trail highlight point, Amanoiwato Shrine
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