SUSTAINABLE JAPAN | Eco-friendly accommodation among the attractions for next-generation travellers

This article is available in French and German.

For modern travellers who want to enjoy the natural world, experience local customs, and leave a light footprint where they tread, Japan is a dream destination.

After all, respect for nature is in itself highly esteemed in Japan—in large part because of how the country’s diverse natural offering has inspired its colourful culture: from diverse beliefs to illustrious arts and crafts to magical theatrical traditions and a rich food culture.

And for such globetrotters, many of whom are eager to support the local economy of their destination, Japan offers yet more reasons to visit: there, you can enjoy authentic experiences in harmony with generations-old traditions—and living environment—of locals.

An island nation with a culture that stretches back thousands of years, Japan extends some 3,000 kilometres from top to bottom, encompassing sub-arctic Hokkaido Prefecture in the northern part and sub-tropical Okinawa Prefecture in the southern area.

Such diverse geography comes with many blessings: vast, forest-covered mountains; a web of serene streams, rivers and lakes; bubbling volcanoes; abundant, refreshing rainfall; four distinct seasons; and a bio-diverse environment rich in flora and fauna.

Unsurprisingly, Japan’s distinct natural heritage has been infused into its culture, inspiring customs passed down the generations: Noh, a traditional theatre; shojin-ryori, a dish made by monks and centered around soybean-based foods and seasonal vegetables; satoyama, a way of rural living that is compatible with nature, to name a few.

The fusion of nature and culture can be enjoyed firsthand across Japan, in remote and rugged rural areas as well as urban and dynamic towns and cities. And for