Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Takayama

Protected Areas

The Hida region is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. Respect all park rules, stay on marked trails, and do not disturb wildlife or flora. Littering is strictly prohibited.

Waste Management

Japan has strict and complex waste separation rules for recycling. Familiarize yourself with local disposal guidelines, often detailed at hotels. Carry a small bag for your rubbish.

Water Conservation

While mountain springs provide generally abundant water, mindful use is always good. Tap water in Takayama is safe to drink.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Make choices that benefit the environment and local communities.

Carbon Offset Options

Consider offsetting your flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs.

Sustainable Travel

While direct local transport offsets are limited, choosing trains and buses helps.
Terrapass is a carbon offset provider.
Less efficient modes of transport have a higher carbon footprint.
Your choices contribute to a greener journey.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Look for accommodations and tour operators that promote sustainable practices.

Green Choices

Ecobnb for eco-friendly accommodation.
Practices include energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
G Adventures for ethical tour experiences.
Some ryokans highlight local, seasonal ingredients, supporting regional agriculture.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural Preservation

Support local crafts and traditional industries. Shops in Sanmachi Suji sell authentic, locally-made products like lacquerware and wood carvings.

Support sustainable outdoor gear at Patagonia

Respectful Interaction

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious or sensitive areas. Observe and respect local customs like removing shoes.

Find reusable products at Package Free Shop

Engage Respectfully

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor at religious sites. Check for photography restrictions inside buildings.

Economic Impact

Ensure your visit benefits the local community directly.

Community-Based Tourism

Choose locally owned and operated accommodations, like minshuku or independent ryokans.

Support Local Livelihoods

Patronize small, local businesses in the old town and at the morning markets.
This ensures your tourism dollars circulate within the community.
Staying local fosters a stronger connection to the area.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Look for products that are genuinely crafted by local artisans.

Conscious Purchases

Avoid mass-produced souvenirs that may not benefit the local community.
Inquire about the origin of products if unsure.
Your purchases contribute directly to local craftspeople.
Consider The Rainforest Site for conservation support.

Supporting Local Businesses

Eat at local, independent restaurants rather than large chains.

Direct Contributions

Buy local produce, snacks, and crafts at markets.
Use local tour guides or hire local services.
This direct support sustains local livelihoods.
Your choices preserve the town's unique character.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Any cultural experiences you participate in are respectful and authentic, not exploitative.

Ethical Tourism

Avoid activities that might involve the mistreatment of animals.
Avoid disrespectful portrayals of culture.
If uncertain, research or ask local information centers.
Conscious travel decisions make a positive difference.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to contribute to the community, consider donating to local charities, community development projects, or environmental organizations.

Direct Impact

Donating to established local non-profits directly supports community needs and causes.

Sustainable Support

Research reputable local non-profits to ensure your contribution has a lasting positive impact.

Responsible Giving

Giving money to individuals on the street may not achieve desired community outcomes.

Support Local Efforts

Your conscious choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping play a role in the economic well-being of Takayama.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your appreciation for Takayama's heritage through mindful engagement.

Religious Site Etiquette

Showing respect at temples and shrines fosters a positive environment for all visitors and worshippers.

Guidelines for Sacred Spaces

Dress Modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting.
Remove Hats: Remove hats inside temple and shrine buildings.
Silence: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Photography: Check for "no photography" signs, especially inside.

Purification Rituals

At Shinto shrines, use the temizuya (water basin) near the entrance to purify your hands and mouth.

Steps for Purification

Rinse left hand first.
Then rinse your right hand.
Gently rinse your mouth (do not swallow or spit into the basin).
Tip the ladle to cleanse the handle before returning it.

Donations

Small monetary donations at temples or shrines are a respectful gesture. Place them in the offering box (saisen-bako).

Sustainable & Responsible Travel