Okayama University Proposes Collaboration on Accessible Tourism with UN Tourism Organization

Okayama University Visits UN Tourism Headquarters

On May 27, 2025, Okayama University officials visited the UN Tourism Asia-Pacific Regional Office in Nara City. The delegation included Vice President Atsufumi Yokoi, who oversees global engagements, and Associate Professor Kosuke Iketani, a UNESCO Chairholder. Their visit aimed to discuss initiatives that promote accessible tourism and sustainable development in the context of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.

During their meeting with Deputy Director Chiaki Ohtaka and International Affairs Senior Manager Yoshihisa Ishizaki from UN Tourism, Professor Iketani presented ongoing projects, such as accessible tourism in World Heritage sites and various outdoor barrier-free initiatives led by local governments. The discussions highlighted the importance of enhancing accessibility in natural tourist areas, which aligns with the mission of promoting inclusive tourism.

Vice President Yokoi remarked on Okayama's status as Japan's first regional center for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and proposed a partnership between Okayama University and UN Tourism. Collaborating under the guidelines of the Global Code of Ethics adopted in 1999, they aim to develop sustainable and accessible tourism models that can be widely implemented.

UN Tourism emphasized the need to disseminate their initiatives across society, fostering a greater understanding and involvement in sustainable practices. This dialogue underscores the increasing awareness and importance of accessible tourism as a vital component of sustainable development.

Okayama University is committed to reinforcing its unique educational offerings centered on ESD, establishing more integrative partnerships with both local and international communities. Their efforts align seamlessly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that educational activities contribute significantly to regional and global sustainability efforts.

For anyone interested in accessibility in tourism, UN Tourism provides valuable resources, including reports and examples of best practices, which can be explored here.

Further inquiries about the partnership, or about programs aimed at fostering collaborations between universities, governments, and private sectors, can be directed to Okayama University's Global Engagement Center through their official website.

This initiative bridges academia and international development, emphasizing the necessity for accessible travel options. Speaking from Okayama's experience, the university aims to lead efforts in educational frameworks that support the diverse needs of all tourists.

As Okayama University continues on this promising journey, they invite everyone to stay tuned for future developments and research efforts. Engage with their vision for a more inclusive travel landscape while taking part in their commitment to the future of sustainable tourism and education.