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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Japan

Environmental Care

The Seto Inland Sea features ongoing conservation efforts. Art integration into the landscape reflects a desire to coexist with nature.

Practices

  • Japan practices strict waste separation. Public bins are scarce; carry trash.
  • Consider offsetting your flights through reputable programs like Terrapass.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Support accommodations and businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Sustainable Travel Support

  • Benesse Art Site Naoshima embraces sustainability in its design. Seek similar accommodations, for instance, through Ecobnb.
  • Carry reusable water bottles and shopping bags, consider products from places like Package Free Shop.
  • Choosing local businesses that source local ingredients also supports environmental sustainability.

Cultural Respect

Cultural preservation is evident in the Art House Project, which integrates traditional homes with contemporary art.

Interactions & Etiquette

  • Be polite and use appropriate greetings.
  • Respect photography restrictions at art sites; ask permission for people.
  • Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional restaurants, or temple buildings.

Economic Impact

Your choices can positively impact the local community.

Community Support

  • Staying in local guesthouses and dining at local eateries supports small businesses.
  • Purchase local crafts and souvenirs directly from island artisans.
  • For ethical travel and tours, consider operators like G Adventures.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Ethical Purchasing

  • Buy local crafts directly to make sure fair compensation.
  • Support conservation through purchases at sites like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).
  • For sustainable outdoor gear, explore brands like Patagonia.
  • Choose businesses that source local ingredients.

Avoid Harmful Practices

  • The nature of tourism on Naoshima means exploitation is not a major concern.
  • For charitable contributions, inquire at the local tourist information center.
  • Art initiatives work to uplift the local community.
  • Engage with Naoshima's community with an open and respectful attitude.

Conscious Travel

Engage with Naoshima's art and community with an open mind and a respectful attitude. This fosters a positive experience for both you and the island's residents.

Ethical Travel Impact

Your travel choices contribute to Naoshima's sustainability and community welfare.

Environmental Harmony

The Seto Inland Sea features ongoing conservation efforts. Art integration into the landscape promotes coexistence with nature.

Cultural Respect

The Art House Project is a prime example of cultural preservation through art, maintaining the island's heritage.

Local Economic Boost

Supporting local businesses and accommodations contributes directly to the island's small businesses and residents.

Waste Management Practices

Japan follows strict recycling rules.

Recycling Guidelines

  • Separate trash into categories: burnable, non-burnable, plastics, cans, bottles.
  • Public trash bins are scarce; carry your trash until you locate a designated bin.
  • Follow recycling guidelines provided by your hotel or guesthouse.

Respectful Interactions

Visitor Guidelines

  • Maintain a polite demeanor and use appropriate greetings.
  • Do not intrude on local residents' privacy in residential areas like Honmura.
  • Maintain a quiet demeanor in residential areas and art spaces.

Ethical Tourism Actions

Sustainable Practices

  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Use a reusable shopping bag.
  • Be mindful of water consumption in accommodations.

Supporting Local Economy

  • Choose local restaurants and cafes.
  • Rent bicycles from local shops.
  • Use services provided by island residents.

Respectful interactions and adherence to local customs create a welcoming atmosphere.

Photography & Privacy

Be mindful of photography rules, especially at art sites, and always respect personal privacy.

Guidelines for Photos

  • Many museums, like Chichu Art Museum, prohibit interior photography.
  • Always ask permission before photographing people, notably children.
  • Do not photograph private homes or property without explicit permission.

Religious Site Etiquette

When visiting shrines or temples, observe these common courtesies.

Temple & Shrine Visits

  • Remove your shoes before entering certain temple buildings or traditional homes.
  • Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit.
  • Follow local customs for making offerings or prayers if you choose to participate.

Public Behavior

Social Considerations

  • Avoid being overly loud in public places, including public transport and museums.
  • Public displays of affection are uncommon and can be seen as impolite.
  • Avoid discussing sensitive political issues.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Japan is generally a safe and welcoming country for all travelers.

Inclusive Travel

  • Japan is generally safe for all travelers.
  • Public displays of affection are uncommon regardless of gender.
  • While same-sex marriage is not nationwide, some cities offer partnership certificates.

Important Considerations

Public Etiquette

  • Avoid excessive noise, especially in quiet zones.
  • Remember to remove shoes where appropriate.
  • Refrain from public displays of affection.

Respectful Conduct

  • Adhere to photography restrictions in museums.
  • Respect the privacy of local residents.
  • Approach sensitive topics with caution.

General Accessibility Advice

Mobility Considerations

  • Naoshima's hilly terrain and stairs at some art sites may pose challenges.
  • Local public buses may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
  • Contact art sites directly for specific accessibility information and assistance.

Sensory Support

  • Museum audio guides may offer detailed descriptions for visual impairments.
  • Specific services for hearing impairments may be limited.
  • Inquire directly with individual art sites about specific accommodations.

Accessibility Planning

For accessible travel in Japan, consider referring to the Japan Accessible Tourism Center (JATC). For Naoshima, contacting individual art sites and accommodations directly beforehand provides current information regarding accessibility features.