Kyushu and Shikoku island tour in Japan

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Most accommodations use energy-efficient systems such as LED lighting, motion sensors, and key card power controls. While renewable energy use is not consistently reported, efforts to reduce carbon emissions include limited towel and linen changes and sourcing food locally.

The itinerary includes visits to several protected and natural areas such as Mount Aso and Mount Yufu, both within national park zones. Entry and access fees (e.g. local transport or ropeway charges) range from approximately JPY 500–1,000 per person per site.

Vegetarian options are available daily, and most included meals can be adapted with advance notice. Vegan options may be limited in some rural areas, but guides and accommodations do their best to accommodate dietary preferences using locally available ingredients. Meals are largely locally sourced and seasonal, featuring regional specialties such as Setoda citrus, Aso vegetables, and local seafood. While formal supplier certifications are not confirmed, partner hotels and restaurants prioritize domestic ingredients and minimal waste. Larger chains monitor food waste and increasingly use recyclable or FSC-certified paper products.


ENVIRONEMNT AND WILDLIFE

All properties have measures to reduce environmental impact, including recycling, water-saving fixtures, and reduced single-use plastics. Larger chains use paperless systems and eco-certified cleaning products, while smaller inns emphasize local sourcing and waste reduction.

Nature restoration is limited due to urban locations, though several properties maintain gardens or rooftop greenery that support pollinators. Hotels in rural areas, such as Aso, participate in local conservation and landscape protection initiatives.

Entrance and transport fees in areas such as Aso-Kuju National Park and Setoda Island contribute to local park maintenance and conservation. Local guides and facilities often collaborate with municipal or national initiatives focused on preserving hiking trails, biodiversity and volcanic landscapes.

The trip includes licensed local guides with expertise in regional history, culture, and natural environments. In areas such as Onomichi, local step-on or guides are used. All guides are qualified under Japan’s national guiding certification system or trained by regional tourism associations, ensuring accurate interpretation and responsible visitor conduct in natural areas.

Invasive species pose moderate risks in parts of Japan, particularly affecting native plants and aquatic ecosystems. The tour does not directly enter high-risk habitats, but guides remind travellers to clean footwear and equipment before and after hikes to prevent seed or soil transfer. Activities follow national park regulations that help reduce the spread of invasive flora and fauna.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

All accommodations are Japanese-owned or locally managed, providing local employment and supporting regional suppliers, producers, and communities.

The tour engages local guides in Onomichi and Aso and includes visits to Uchiko, known for traditional crafts such as washi paper and candles, as well as Arita, a center of Japanese ceramics. Meals and purchases are made at small, locally owned restaurants and workshops, supporting regional artisans and businesses.

Where possible, EXO Japan works with locally owned suppliers and community-based enterprises, many of which are family-run or female-led, especially in rural destinations such as Uchiko. Exact numbers vary by season.

EXO Japan and all partner accommodations maintain inclusive, nondiscriminatory practices. LGBTQ+ travellers are welcome and treated respectfully throughout the trip.

The trip involves frequent walking, cycling, and public transport, and some accommodations lack full accessibility. Therefore, it may not be suitable for travellers with limited mobility or visual or hearing impairments.