Shukuba Travel Obtains International 'GSTC Certification' for Sustainable Tourism
Aiming to popularize sustainable tourism through experiential tours like 'STORIES,' where 'the more you travel, the better the world becomes.'
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- 📰 Published: April 1, 2026 at 20:12
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Shukuba Travel (Headquarters: Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo), operated by Shukuba Plus LLC, a group company of Shukuba JAPAN Co., Ltd. (Representative Director: Takashi Tamai (Watanabe)), which manages guesthouses and plans tours primarily in the Shinagawa area, has obtained 'GSTC Certification' (Certification Number: GSTC TOCU250111), the international standard for sustainable tourism, as a tour operator. The third-party international certification body that conducted the audit was Control Union Japan.
Background of GSTC Certification: 'STORIES' Experiential Tours
Shukuba Travel was evaluated by Control Union Japan for maintaining a sustainable tourism management system and conducting responsible operations, leading to this certification. Since its founding, the Shukuba JAPAN Group has been dedicated to business development that connects visitors to Shinagawa with the town, creating mutual benefits through local accommodation management, tour planning, and cultural experience programs. On February 25, 2025, they concluded a partnership agreement with the Old Tokaido Shinagawa-shuku Area Community Development Council, which has led local development for over 30 years. Their flagship sustainable tourism project is 'STORIES,' based on the concept that 'the more you travel, the better the world becomes.'
Features of 'STORIES':
The tour focuses on connecting travelers with local residents. Based on pre-tour interviews, plans are tailored to participants' interests. Before departure, participants receive a documentary movie about the destination. On-site, they can engage with the daily lives of local shopkeepers—such as greengrocers, tatami makers, florists, and hair salons. A portion of the tour revenue is returned to the participating shopkeepers and the community, creating a model where both participants and the region are empowered.
Comment from Auditor Ms. Zhong Zifang (Control Union Japan):
'I am honored to have conducted the GSTC audit for Shukuba Travel. Their unique 'community-immersive tours' provide deep connections rather than superficial sightseeing. Their commitment to protecting local history and culture while focusing on community development is a model for sustainable tourism.'
Background of GSTC Certification: 'STORIES' Experiential Tours
Shukuba Travel was evaluated by Control Union Japan for maintaining a sustainable tourism management system and conducting responsible operations, leading to this certification. Since its founding, the Shukuba JAPAN Group has been dedicated to business development that connects visitors to Shinagawa with the town, creating mutual benefits through local accommodation management, tour planning, and cultural experience programs. On February 25, 2025, they concluded a partnership agreement with the Old Tokaido Shinagawa-shuku Area Community Development Council, which has led local development for over 30 years. Their flagship sustainable tourism project is 'STORIES,' based on the concept that 'the more you travel, the better the world becomes.'
Features of 'STORIES':
The tour focuses on connecting travelers with local residents. Based on pre-tour interviews, plans are tailored to participants' interests. Before departure, participants receive a documentary movie about the destination. On-site, they can engage with the daily lives of local shopkeepers—such as greengrocers, tatami makers, florists, and hair salons. A portion of the tour revenue is returned to the participating shopkeepers and the community, creating a model where both participants and the region are empowered.
Comment from Auditor Ms. Zhong Zifang (Control Union Japan):
'I am honored to have conducted the GSTC audit for Shukuba Travel. Their unique 'community-immersive tours' provide deep connections rather than superficial sightseeing. Their commitment to protecting local history and culture while focusing on community development is a model for sustainable tourism.'
FAQ
What is GSTC certification?
It is an international certification system established by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council to evaluate sustainable practices in the tourism industry.
What are the features of the STORIES tour?
It is an experiential tour that emphasizes deep connections between travelers and local residents, with a portion of the revenue reinvested into the community.
Why did they obtain the certification?
To internationally verify their responsible operations and sustainable tourism management system, and to promote coexistence with the local community.