In recent years, the city has seen a surge in eco-friendly accommodations. From apartments designed according to bioclimatic architecture principles to hotels that offset their carbon footprint, visitors now have sustainable options without sacrificing comfort or design. A prime example is Miru Nishiazabu, located in the stylish Minato district, which runs entirely on renewable energy. The building stands out not only for its energy efficiency but also for the integration of recycled materials and a design that maximizes natural ventilation and lighting.
Similar initiatives are emerging in districts like Shinjuku and Sumida, where small family-run hotels have adopted greywater reuse systems, solar panels, and smart electricity consumption controls. Collectively, these projects are laying the groundwork for a new hospitality standard that could be replicated in other Japanese cities.
Tokyo’s sustainability efforts extend beyond the hospitality sector. The city is transforming public spaces to make them greener and healthier. Yoyogi Park and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden have undergone ecological preservation programs, and cycling is increasingly promoted as a means of transportation for both tourists and residents. The city government has expanded bike lanes, rental stations, and pedestrian-only areas to reduce car use in key tourist zones.
Sustainability has also made its way into Tokyo’s culinary scene. Many restaurants now source directly from local producers, offer seasonal menus, and reduce food waste. Even in traditional markets like Toyosu, measures are being taken to minimize plastic packaging and promote recycling.
At the same time, local authorities are raising environmental awareness among visitors. Through informational campaigns in airports, train stations, and tourist centers, travelers are encouraged to adopt responsible habits during their stay: sorting waste, reducing paper and plastic use, and respecting natural spaces. This educational effort is complemented by school and university programs that foster a strong environmental culture among younger generations.
The push for sustainability has also reached the business sector. Major hotel chains, travel agencies, and tour operators are integrating environmental impact indicators into their operations, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In collaboration with the metropolitan government, private companies are taking part in fairs, events, and eco-certification platforms that reinforce the commitment across the entire tourism value chain.
One of the keys to Tokyo’s success in this transformation is its comprehensive approach: sustainability is not limited to isolated measures but is part of a coherent, long-term urban strategy. This vision includes digitalization for resource optimization, climate change resilience, and the revitalization of traditional neighborhoods without sacrificing identity or authenticity.
Tokyo is proving that even megacities can move toward a more respectful, conscious, and balanced form of tourism. The combination of technology, civic culture, and strong public policies is making a new model possible—one in which the visitor experience is enriched while the environment is protected and local quality of life improves.
For international travelers, this transformation presents a unique opportunity: to discover the greenest and most forward-thinking side of a city that never ceases to amaze. Tokyo is no longer just about ancient temples, world-class cuisine, or futuristic districts. Today, it also offers the chance to be part of a tourism experience that truly aligns with 21st-century values.
