[Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika] Becomes First in Hakone, Kanagawa to Acquire "4 Gyoko Sakura" in Japan's ESG Certification "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice" for Accommodations

4 Gyoko Sakura Certification Logo Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika (Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture; Manager: Joji Kasai) has acquired the "4 Gyoko Sakura" in the tourism quality certification system "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice" implemented by Sakura Quality Management Co., Ltd. This is the first of its kind for an accommodation facility in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, and is the result of the evaluation of the sustainability initiatives the hotel has promoted together with the local community. "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice" is a certification system that comprehensively evaluates sustainability, regional contribution, environmental consideration, and building sound relationships with employees in the tourism business. It requires initiatives that respond to the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), which are becoming a global trend. Our hotel has implemented the following initiatives: - Upcycle utilization of stone materials and felled trees originating from Mt. Hakone for the building - Proactively accepting internships for local students, engaging in next-generation human resource development and regional cooperation - Providing local ingredients and exhibiting/selling traditional crafts for the sustainable development of Hakone region's nature, history, and culture - Sponsoring and cooperating with the Hakone Gora Onsen Daimonji-yaki event These continuous efforts led to the high evaluation in "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice." Going forward, Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika will continue to aim for further quality improvement and social contribution as a flag bearer building the future of sustainable tourism together with the local community. About Sakura Quality Green "Sakura Quality An ESG Practice" (commonly known as Sakura Quality Green) is an ESG certification from Japan developed by Sakura Quality Management Co., Ltd. The certification standards were approved by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), an international sustainable standards body in the US, in March 2022. The certification consists of 172 items based on GSTC's 42 criteria, and is evaluated on a 5-level scale after answering a check sheet and an on-site inspection by an investigator. Official website: https://www.sakurastay.com/ Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika Exterior Image About Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika is a hot spring resort hotel located in Gora Onsen, Hakone-machi, Kanagawa Prefecture. In the main building and the adjacent Aya building, we offer a variety of guest rooms, including those with open-air hot spring baths, in a calm space close to the nature of Hakone. At the restaurant, we operate the hotel with a strong connection to the local community, such as proactively offering dishes incorporating ingredients from Kanagawa and Shizuoka. As a base for sightseeing in Hakone, it is an inn where you can enjoy a high-quality hot spring experience and a relaxing time. Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika TEL: 0460-82-2121 (Main) URL: https://www.laforet.co.jp/gora/ About Laforet Hotels & Resorts We operate 5 hotels and 2 golf courses in major resort areas where you can feel the charm of Japan, such as the beauty of Japan's changing seasons, hot springs that heal the mind and body, and unique local meals. In addition to facilities that meet a wide range of needs, such as guest rooms with hot springs, rooms where you can stay with your dog, and conference facilities capable of accommodating large-scale training, we offer a variety of gastronomy and attractive activities utilizing local specialties. For more information, please visit www.laforet.co.jp/v/. We also broadcast information on Facebook (@LaforetHotels) and X (formerly Twitter) (@Laforet_Hotels).