Top Tips
Top tips for going green in JapanOn this page we present nine handy tips for how you can be a little bit greener during your stay in Japan. We feel it is really important that we do everything we can to minimise the potential negative impact that our holidays may have on the environment. Some of the issues are really large but hopefully by making small changes you can help make a difference. And if you have any recommendations for us, please do pass them on.
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Avoid disposable chopsticks
Japan gets through 24 billion pairs of disposable chopsticks (waribashi) a year. That's a whole lot of wood, causing deforestation, landfill problems and pollution from incineration. Avoid this by using your InsideJapan Tours' chopsticks throughout your trip. We estimate this will save the average holidaymaker 24 pairs of disposable chopsticks.
Check out our 'My Hashi (chopsticks)' page for IJT is doing its bit to reduce the use of disposable chopsticks during our clients' trips
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Turn off lights, heaters or a/c
To save energy, please be sure to turn off lights, heating or air-conditioning in your hotel room while you are out for the day.
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Use public transport
Public transport in Japan is clean, punctual and the fastest way to travel. So skip the taxis and take the subway instead. Better still, hire a bike to explore!
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Take your litter home
Litter is conspicuous by its absence from Japan's streets - and we'd like it to stay that way! The Japanese are well disciplined in taking their litter home or making sure it finds its way to the appropriate bin or recycling box. Please do your best to do likewise.
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Recycle
The Japanese collect and recycle plastic, paper, PET bottles, aluminium and glass. Look for separate recycling bins (trash cans) in train stations and outside convenience stores.
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Refuse plastic bags
Carry a reusable shopping bag, in order to do your bit by refusing plastic bags in shops.
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Eat seasonal and local
Japan is proud of its regional cuisine. Please try local dishes and find out what produce is in season. Avoid national chains, and eat in small, family-run restaurants, thus reducing 'food miles' and putting your money into the local economy.
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Drink the tap water
Tap water is safe to drink in Japan, so do refill your water bottle each day. This cuts down on the number of plastic bottles you'll buy from vending machines or convenience stores.
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Learn some Japanese language & social etiquette tips
A little bit of cultural understanding won't stop global warming, but will minimise the negative impact of your trip on the Japanese. For language help and social etiquette tips please turn to the general section of your Info-Pack.