Ryokan Kurashiki, located in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and operated by Anabuki Enterprise Co., Ltd., received the Sakura Quality Green Certification with a “Three Gyoiko-Zakura” ranking on September 20, 2024. This certification is part of a quality assurance and improvement program aimed at promoting environmental protection and sustainability within the tourism industry. The certification signifies that the ryokan is committed to sustainability and contributing to the local community. With the growing demand from inbound tourism, this certification serves as an important benchmark for travelers looking for environmentally responsible accommodations.
In July 2024, the number of inbound tourists to Japan reached a record high of 3,292,500, representing a 41.9% year-on-year increase, partly driven by the weakened yen. Against this backdrop, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter remains one of Japan’s top tourist destinations, attracting a significant number of international visitors. Currently, 46% of Ryokan Kurashiki’s guests are inbound tourists. Furthermore, the ryokan underwent renovations in August 2024, blending Edo-period charm with modern comfort, which is expected to further increase demand from international travelers.
The Sakura Quality Green Certification aims to promote environmental protection and sustainability within the tourism sector. The certification is awarded to facilities that meet specific criteria, including eco-friendly operations, community contributions, and the advancement of sustainable tourism. Facilities that implement concrete initiatives such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and recycling are recognized under this program.
The “Three Gyoiko-Zakura” ranking is awarded to facilities that excel in environmental protection, reflecting their eco-friendly operations and contributions to the local community. Gyoiko-Zakura is a rare cherry blossom species with pale green flowers, symbolizing harmony with nature and environmental preservation. The certification emphasizes four key criteria. First, energy efficiency, which includes the adoption of renewable energy and energy-saving equipment to reduce overall consumption. Second, waste reduction and recycling, where efforts such as waste separation, recycling promotion, and food waste reduction are prioritized to minimize resource wastage. Third, coexistence with the local community is considered, where facilities are judged based on their activities to support local culture and industries, revitalizing the local economy through the use of local ingredients and products. Lastly, the promotion of sustainable tourism is evaluated, with a focus on encouraging tourism that minimizes environmental impact and prioritizes environmental conservation. Facilities that meet these four criteria are awarded the “Three Gyoiko-Zakura” certification.
Ryokan Kurashiki originally operated as a sugar wholesaler’s warehouse belonging to the Kawahara family during the Edo period. The building was later passed down to the Hatakeyama family, who opened it as a culinary ryokan in 1957. In 2005, due to the lack of a successor, the business was transferred to Anabuki Kosan Co., Ltd., which renovated the guest rooms and restaurant the following year. With the rise in inbound tourism, additional guest rooms were added in 2017, and the ryokan now operates with eight guest rooms, one banquet room, and a restaurant. With the recent certification, Ryokan Kurashiki aims to continue providing a comfortable and reassuring stay while contributing to sustainable tourism and fostering a harmonious relationship with the local community.
