[Karuizawa Marriott Hotel] First in Karuizawa Region to Acquire "4 Gyoiko Sakura" from Japan's ESG Certification for Accommodations, "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice"

4 Gyoiko Sakura Certification Logo

Karuizawa Marriott Hotel (Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture; General Manager: Kentaro Ohira) has acquired the "4 Gyoiko Sakura" certification under "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice," Japan's first ESG certification developed by Sakura Quality Management Inc. This marks the first acquisition by an accommodation facility in the Karuizawa region, highly recognizing the hotel's sustainability initiatives promoted in collaboration with the local community.

"Sakura Quality An ESG Practice" is a certification system that comprehensively evaluates sustainability, regional contribution, environmental consideration, and the establishment of healthy relationships with employees in tourism businesses. While the acquisition of this certification requires initiatives aligned with the global trend of SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), our hotel has been working in collaboration with the local community to implement the following initiatives:

・Initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, such as reusing fallen leaves on the hotel grounds as fertilizer for fields.

・Holding cooking classes for producers, utilizing vegetables harvested by hotel chefs together with the producers.

・Implementing work experience programs for local junior high school students.

・Co-hosting the experiential event "Karuizawa Fermentation Festival" with Fermentation Valley NAGANO (General Incorporated Association)* and selling accommodation plans with experiences, "Fermentation Retreat."

*An organization where fermentation food-related groups and companies in Nagano Prefecture collaborate to promote the charm of fermentation culture domestically and internationally, aiming to build a regional brand of "Fermentation & Longevity Prefecture NAGANO."

These continuous efforts have led to a high evaluation in "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice." Karuizawa Marriott Hotel will continue to strive for further quality improvement and social contribution as a key player in building a sustainable future for tourism, together with the local community.

About Sakura Quality Green

"Sakura Quality An ESG Practice" (commonly known as Sakura Quality Green) is Japan's first ESG certification developed by Sakura Quality Management Inc. The certification standards were approved by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), a U.S.-based international sustainable standards body, in March 2022. The certification consists of 172 items based on GSTC's 42 criteria and is evaluated at 5 levels after responding to a checklist and an on-site inspection by investigators.

Official website: https://www.sakurastay.com/

About Karuizawa Marriott Hotel

Karuizawa Marriott Hotel offers a truly authentic resort life in tranquility, where guests can enjoy the seasonal nature, elegant townscapes, hot springs, and gourmet cuisine. Nestled in a forest steeped in history and culture, we propose gastronomy tourism that allows guests to savor the climate of Shinshu through hot springs, fermentation, and food. We offer a variety of room types, including all rooms with hot springs where guests can relax in a Japanese-style setting by taking off their shoes, and cottages where guests can stay with their beloved dogs. Experience a retreat stay that soothes your mind and body with two hot springs of different qualities, a spa, and exquisite cuisine woven from the blessings of Shinshu.

Karuizawa Marriott Hotel Exterior

＜Contact Information＞

Karuizawa Marriott Hotel TEL: 0267-46-6611 URL: https://www.karuizawa-marriott.com

About Marriott Hotels

With approximately 600 hotels and resorts in over 70 countries and territories worldwide, Marriott Hotels continues to elevate the art of hospitality, with putting guests first as a living legacy of the brand. Marriott Hotels consistently provides modern, comfortable spaces and heartfelt service, raising the bar by delivering experiences that go beyond the everyday. As the needs and expectations of travelers worldwide evolve, Marriott Hotels also evolves, leading the industry with innovative services such as Greatroom lobbies and mobile guest services that incorporate style, design, and technology. For more information, visit www.MarriottHotels.com. Information is also available on Facebook, X (@marriott), and Instagram (@marriotthotels). Marriott Hotels participates in Marriott Bonvoy™, Marriott International's global travel program. Marriott Bonvoy offers members an extraordinary global brand portfolio, experiences with Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including points towards free hotel stays and elite status upgrades. For free membership registration and program details, visit marriottbonvoy.com.