The Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB) sponsored the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Tokyo, Japan, from October 16th to October 18th, 2023. The training offered to 20 TCVB supporting members, was led by GSTC Trainer Dr. Mami Futagami, Emeritus Professor at Meijo University.  

GSTC Training TCVBThe GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course provided participants with the essential knowledge and skills to champion sustainable tourism practices. It presented an excellent opportunity to delve into the GSTC Criteria the global standards for sustainability in tourism and travel. The inclusion of global and local case studies enhanced the value of the training. 

The group also had the opportunity to do a field exercise to Asakusa Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, Japan. Also known as Sanja-sama, one of the most famous Shinto shrines in the city. Asakusa Shrine is part of a larger grouping of sacred buildings in the area​​. Participants had the opportunity to discuss the importance of the protection of cultural heritage, not only by preserving old traditions, but also by creating new culture, and explored the problems caused by the increase in the number of foreign visitors and how to mitigate this matter.

Upon successful course completion, participants receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to take an optional official exam to obtain the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism.

If you are interested in contributing to the industry’s sustainable transformation, consider checking out GSTC’s upcoming courses here.