#Japan #sustainable travel #Takayama #Ascend Hotel

Experience the Charm of Takayama at Hotel Around Takayama

Nestled in the heart of Takayama, a city renowned for its historical charm and rich culture, lies the Hotel Around Takayama, part of the Ascend Hotel Collection™. This unique hotel offers travelers an extraordinary opportunity to connect with the local culture and community, prioritizing sustainability and responsible tourism.

Takayama, located in Gifu Prefecture, is celebrated for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture, bustling morning markets, and traditional sake breweries. Recently recognized as one of the "10 Most Comfortable Cities in the World" in Booking.com’s Traveler Review Awards 2026, Takayama has become a prominent destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.

A Hub for Cultural Engagement

Hotel Around Takayama strives to be a vibrant hub where guests can explore the essence of Takayama through engaging encounters with the local community and culture. The concept of the hotel revolves around the idea of GOOD LOCAL—a connection to the unique offerings of the Hida Takayama region, fostering sustainable relationships between guests and the local environment.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the hotel has recently achieved the prestigious "4 Gyoikou Zakura" certification under the Sakura Quality An ESG Practice program. This international certification recognizes accommodations that actively engage in sustainability initiatives. In collaboration with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), the certification process evaluates various criteria concerning environmental stewardship, community involvement, and sustainable governance.

Embracing Sustainability

In response to growing concerns around environmental issues and climate change, Hotel Around Takayama promotes sustainable tourism practices. Understanding that many travelers desire more sustainable travel options, the hotel provides numerous initiatives to minimize its ecological footprint. For instance:

• - Reclaimed Materials: The hotel utilizes refurbished wood to create charming furniture and art displays, showcasing the artistry of local craftspeople.
• - Organic Amenities: By sourcing amenities derived from surplus rice and barley, the hotel significantly reduces plastic waste while supporting local agriculture.
• - Decarbonization Initiatives: Electric bicycles are offered for rental, encouraging guests to explore Takayama while minimizing carbon emissions.
• - Food Waste Reduction: The hotel implements set breakfast menus that aim to curtail food waste, ensuring that every ingredient is effectively utilized.
• - Locally Inspired Cuisine: Guests can savor meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, promoting Hida Takayama’s agricultural products.

Cultural Experiences Await

The hotel doesn’t just stop at sustainable practices; it also provides mechanisms through which guests can engage with the local community. Some initiatives include:

• - GOOD LOCAL MAP: A curated town map highlighting must-visit local spots.
• - GOOD LOCAL 100: An interactive guide offering insights into Takayama’s culture, allowing guests to collect cards to create a personalized travel guide.
• - Art and Literature Displays: Local artworks and literature sections that reflect Takayama's heritage and creativity, fostering a deeper understanding of the area’s significance.

In an increasingly globalized travel landscape, Hotel Around Takayama stands out as a beacon for sustainability, culture, and community connection. It offers travelers a unique way to experience the depth of Hida Takayama while respecting and preserving the local environment.

Looking Ahead

Choice Hotels Japan, which oversees the operation of Hotel Around Takayama, continues to focus on harnessing the rich cultural and tourism resources found across Japan. The intent is to provide high-quality hospitality while ensuring that local traditions and sustainability remain at the forefront of their efforts. By facilitating valuable experiences for both domestic and international guests, the hotel aims to contribute positively to the tourism landscape and local communities.

Exploring Hotel Around Takayama means embracing a new lifestyle where comfort meets culture and where every stay becomes a pathway to understanding and appreciating the beauty of the local heritage. Travelers seeking a memorable adventure should look no further than this exceptional hotel, where the stories of Takayama’s past await to be discovered.

For more details, visit Hotel Around Takayama.