Initiatives on Sustainable Tourism in Cultural Preservation
Marukoma Onsen Ryokan GSTC-11
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 Cultural Preservation at Marukoma Onsen Ryokan
[Cultural Preservation]
In sustainable tourism, cultural preservation means ensuring that tourism activities by visitors do not negatively impact the traditional culture, heritage, customs, and social values of a community. Specifically, it seeks to prevent local cultures from being diminished or commodified through tourism, while instead promoting the preservation and enhancement of cultural identity through responsible tourism practices.
At Marukoma Onsen Ryokan, we are engaged in the following initiatives related to Cultural Preservation
- Understanding and Education of Local Culture
We offer activities such as “Hidden Hot Spring Picture-Story Shows” and “Hot Spring Excavation Experiences” to deepen awareness of environmental issues and cultural heritage. In addition, we introduce aspects of the Jomon culture, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, by providing guests with information during dinner service—such as about preserved foods and the use of traditional hearths (irori). - Preservation of Traditional Culture
We actively highlight the Jomon culture by incorporating preserved foods and traditional cooking methods using hearths into our dinner service, thereby supporting the continuation of traditional practices. - Protection of Heritage Sites
We raise awareness about cultural heritage conservation by sharing information on late Jomon collective burial sites and wetlands registered under the Ramsar Convention. - Sustainable Tourism Policies
We engage in communication with governments and tourism operators to ensure that tourism resources are managed sustainably, while safeguarding cultural landscapes and local lifestyles from negative impacts.
These initiatives are made possible through the collaboration of local communities, the tourism industry, and travelers. They contribute to sustainable tourism by ensuring that regional culture is preserved and nurtured not as a mere commodity, but as a valuable heritage asset for future generations.
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
