Initiatives on Sustainable Tourism in Responsible Travel
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan GSTC-10
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.
Initiatives on Sustainable Tourism in Responsible Travel at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
[Responsible Travel]
In the context of sustainable tourism, responsible travel refers to traveling with consideration for the environment, culture, and society. This concept aims to minimize negative impacts on destinations while contributing positively to local communities and their economies.
At Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, we are engaged in the following initiatives related to Responsible Travel
- Environmental Consideration
We encourage our guests to use public transportation and provide a complimentary shuttle bus from the terminal station to the ryokan, thereby reducing environmental impact. - Contribution to the Local Economy
To support local businesses, we utilize restaurants and shops in the area and manage purchasing through Infomart, where we monitor suppliers to ensure that local companies are prioritized. - Cultural Respect
We actively incorporate elements of Hokkaido’s spiritual culture, culinary traditions, and local dishes into our services, ensuring that cultural respect is reflected in the guest experience. - Social Responsibility
We strive to ensure that tourism activities do not negatively affect the lives of local residents or the community. To this end, we provide staff training and awareness programs so that tourism generates long-term benefits for the local society.
Responsible travel is not merely about enjoying tourism; it is about contributing to the sustainable development of the destinations we visit and ensuring that both future travelers and local residents can continue to cherish these places for generations to come.
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
