Background
As a follow-up to the ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Special Dialogue in October 2023, this training program aimed to share best practices in sustainable tourism among ASEAN member states and Japan. By visiting leading sustainable tourism practices in Japan, participants gained insights into practical applications and identified potential opportunities for their own countries.
Intervention
The four-day program, held in Tokyo and Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, from March 4-9, 2025, included lectures on sustainable tourism principles and Japanese outbound tourism trends, a workshop to present and discuss sustainable tourism initiatives from each participating country, a site visit to learn about Japan’s successful sustainable tourism practices, and networking opportunities.
In Ozu City, participants learned about sustainable tourism initiatives from various perspectives, including public-private partnerships for landscape and heritage preservation, urban regeneration projects incorporating sustainability principles, and regeneration projects led by local residents. Through visits to the town, they experienced the effects of sustainable tourism on the region.
Outcomes/takeaway
The workshop was highly evaluated by participants, deepening their understanding of sustainable tourism. The workshop, where countries shared challenges and best practices, was a valuable learning opportunity.
Through the Ozu City case, participants recognized the necessity of public-private partnerships, active participation of local residents, and innovative technology for sustainable tourism. They discussed specific strategies for promoting sustainable tourism, leveraging each country’s natural and cultural resources, and the potential for new tourism projects through ASEAN-Japan cooperation.
Participants expressed a desire to accelerate sustainable tourism in their countries and expectations for strengthening cooperation between ASEAN and Japan in the tourism sector.
Event Overview
Date: 4-9 March 2025
Participants: NTO officials from Cambodia, Japan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam and official from ASEAN Secretariat
Activity Partners: INDIGO LLC, Arigato Travel KK., DMO KITA-Management
Participants’ Testimonial: “I believe that this workshop has been highly beneficial, as it has provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge on sustainable tourism among different countries.”
