【Addressing Overtourism】Our Commitment to Sustainable Tourism: Addressing Overtourism at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan GSTC-06
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan: Leading the Way in Sustainable Hospitality
In January 2025, Marukoma Onsen Ryokan became the first hot spring inn in Hokkaido to be awarded the prestigious Sakura Quality – An ESG Practice certification, an international recognition based on the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) standards. This certification honors our ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact, contributing to the local community, and operating in harmony with nature.
Driven by the vision of our founder — “I have never seen a world so beautiful and full of peace” — we are dedicated to preserving this legacy for the next hundred years and beyond. With passion and purpose, we embrace the principles of the SDGs and continue to evolve as a truly sustainable destination.
We will keep sharing our efforts and innovations, ensuring every guest experiences comfort, harmony, and the natural beauty of our surroundings — all while making a positive impact on the world.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Tourism: Addressing Overtourism at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
What is Overtourism?
Overtourism refers to a situation in which an excessive number of visitors overwhelms a destination, causing negative impacts on the local community, natural environment, and cultural heritage. While tourism brings economic benefits, it can also threaten the sustainability of local life and the preservation of natural and cultural resources.
At Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, we recognize the importance of sustainable tourism and are actively working to address overtourism through the following initiatives:
At Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, we recognize the importance of sustainable tourism and are actively working to address overtourism through the following initiatives:
- Shikotsu Lake Environmental Conservation Cooperation Fee
As a board member of the Shikotsu Lake National Park Management Council, we support the introduction of an environmental cooperation fee. This initiative encourages not only local residents and park administrators, but also visitors—who benefit from the blessings of Shikotsu’s nature—to take part in protecting this extraordinary environment.
Collected fees are used responsibly for efforts such as promoting the “Shikotsu Lake Rules,” conducting area patrols, monitoring the environment, collecting waste, and even cleaning the lakebed. Marukoma Onsen Ryokan fully supports this initiative and kindly asks our guests for their understanding and cooperation. - Event Admission Control and Reservation Systems
To help reduce congestion during popular local festivals and events near Lake Shikotsu, we implement time-separated admission systems—differentiating between general visitors and our overnight guests. This ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience for all. Our staff will explain these arrangements to guests staying at our ryokan. - Promotion of Sustainable Tourism Policies
The “Shikotsu Lake Rules,” established by the National Park Management Council, outline essential guidelines to ensure that visitors can enjoy the area safely and responsibly. These rules are designed to protect the natural beauty and delicate ecosystem of Lake Shikotsu.
At Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, we actively share these guidelines with our guests and ask for their support in preserving the natural charm of this national park.
These initiatives aim to maintain a healthy balance between the economic benefits of tourism and the preservation of our community and environment. We invite all of our guests to be part of this shared responsibility in protecting the future of Lake Shikotsu.
Sapporo’s Secret Onsen Sanctuary Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
Founded in 1915, Marukoma Onsen Ryokan is a historic hot spring inn nestled on the serene shores of Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido. Known for its open-air panoramic bath with breathtaking lake views, the ryokan also boasts a rare natural hot spring that flows directly from the lakebed – a truly unique experience found only in a few places in Japan.
The mineral-rich waters, naturally cloudy and soothing, reflect the deep connection between the land and its history. Guests can savor seasonal Japanese cuisine crafted with local ingredients, served either in a traditional kaiseki style or grilled over an open irori hearth – a nod to the timeless culinary traditions of the region.
With nature, healing waters, and authentic flavors, Marukoma offers a soul-soothing escape from the stress of modern life.
📞 Phone: +81-123-25-2341
📍 Address: 7 Horobinai, Chitose-shi, Hokkaido 066-0287, Japan
🛏 Rooms: 55
⏱ Check-in: from 15:00 / Check-out: by 10:00
💴 Rates: From ¥22,000 per person (based on 2 guests per room, tax & service included)
🌐 Website: https://www.marukoma.co.jp
For press inquiries, please contact Mr. Hiuke at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan: +81-123-25-2341
