In a quiet agricultural and forested town in Ibaraki Prefecture, a new model of sustainable tourism is taking root—one that doesn’t chase crowds but cultivates connection, preservation, and purpose. Launched in 2024, the Daigo Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Workshop brings together international participants, municipal government, foresters, and local traditional artisans for a one-of-a-kind cultural immersion […]

INTRODUCCION: En 2015 fue establecida la contribución del turismo al ODS 8: Promoción del empleo pleno y el trabajo decente. En particular, dentro de la Meta 8.9. se destaca la importancia de “elaborar y poner en práctica políticas encaminadas a promover un turismo sostenible que cree puestos de trabajo y promueva la cultura y los […]

The HIKE project, funded by the EU under the Erasmus+ program, is designed to encourage healthier lifestyles through hiking along European cultural and historical trails. Launched on 1 April 2024 and spanning 18 months, this initiative merges physical activity with cultural discovery, aiming to enrich understanding of shared heritage and cultivate a community of hiking […]

Hakone is a hot spring resort town rich in nature that located in the surroundings of Tokyo, only 1:30 drive away. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the city with a population of 11,000 had around 20 million visitors per year, of which three-quarters were day-visitors. Therefore, it was vital to promote attractive places and products in […]

The WEST NARA Wide Area Tourism Promotion Council is an organization comprised of eleven organizations: Ikaruga Town (the hub of the organization that is home to the World Cultural Heritage site of Horyu-ji Temple); Yamatokoriyama City; Heguri Town; Sango Town; Ando Town; Oji Town; Ikaruga Town Tourism Association; Yamatokoriyama City Tourism Association; Oji Town Tourism […]

Located to the east of the center of Shodoshima Island in the Setouchi National Park, Shodoshima Town is known as the birthplace of olive cultivation in Japan. Blessed with a beautiful natural environment, it is surrounded by the sea and mountains, with a pleasant climate, mild temperatures, and little rainfall. Kankakei Gorge, with its spectacular […]

The Amami Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture, inscribed as a World Natural Heritage Site in July 2021, still retain a rich and pristine natural environment. The fact that approximately 360 villages have survived for more than 750 years under the influence of diverse historical backgrounds and that each village has inherited its own unique culture with […]

Empowering Sustainable Tourism through Collaboration The SDG Tourism Task Force Initiative is a powerful platform driving sustainable tourism practices in Latin America and the Caribbean. This innovative program equips destinations with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. Key Highlights: -Collaborative Workshops: Interactive sessions bring together stakeholders from governments, NGOs, and the private sector […]

In the serene heart of Japan, where tradition meets nature’s beauty, we unveil a remarkable opportunity that celebrates the artistry of kintsugi and urushi lacquer forestry. After a year of dedicated effort and collaboration with the rural town of Daigo, we announce our first annual Japan travel experience workshop: Experience Urushi Forestry + Kintsugi, scheduled […]

Hailing from Tokyo, Takako Sakai has an extensive background in tourism-related roles, having previously worked with Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Hawaii Tourism Japan and Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB). Currently serving as a Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer (2022, Feb 16th ~ 2024, Feb 15th), Sakai contributes to Zlatibor Tourism Organization, a mountain resort […]