Explore eco-friendly Tokyo

What do you look for out of travel? Personally, as a 28-year-old who has visited dozens of countries, I’ve grown increasingly interested in the idea of meaningful travel. Instead of checking off as many items in my bucket list as possible, I’m now keener to immerse myself in purposeful experiences.

Since Tokyo is one of my favorite cities, I’m excited to see that the Japanese capital is also embracing sustainability. From eco-friendly accommodations to cultural experiences that support locals, visitors to Tokyo have plenty of opportunities to create meaningful memories while reducing the impact of tourism.

Where else can you find a market with observation decks and windows? Home to the famous morning tuna auction, Toyosu Market isn't just the largest fish market in the world—it’s also a cultural hub and landmark.

I’ve always wanted to watch the tuna auction in person, so I’m excited to learn that public viewing has resumed. You can catch the action from the gallery, or apply for access to the observation deck. Afterwards, shop for local produce or head to the main restaurant area to savor fresh seafood.

While I love Tokyo’s modernity, it’s always magical to experience the city’s more historic and traditional side. I particularly enjoy strolling around Yanaka, a quaint district that has withstood the test of time.

Ancient temples, wooden houses, and narrow alleyways are some of Yanaka’s highlights, but the district stands out for the warmth and friendliness of its residents. From charming tea rooms to manju bun stalls, the local shopkeepers are always happy to have a chat.

As you walk around the Nihonbashi business district, it’s easy to spot towering office buildings and department stores. But the area is also full of hidden surprises dating back to the Edo period.

Ningyocho (Doll Town), a thriving entertainment district in the past still retains traces of its puppeteering history—two clock towers on the main street come alive with a puppet show every hour between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. I also love visiting Amazake Yokocho (Sweet Sake Alley) to soak up the old-time atmosphere, snack on traditional sweets, and shop for handmade souvenirs.

Have you ever thrown away a broken plate or bowl? What if you could repair it and make it even better than before? Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery, embodies the idea that an item’s damage is part of its history, and should be preserved rather than discarded or disguised.

Using lacquer and gold, turn something old into something new with the traditional art of kintsugi. Not only will you leave with a handmade souvenir, you’ll also learn more about Japanese art, culture, and philosophy.

Just about 2 hours by train from Shinjuku Station, Okutama is Tokyo’s best-kept secret. This natural wonderland boasts stunning lakes, picturesque mountains, and underground caves.

I’m particularly excited to try out the eco-friendly activities available in Okutama. Join a canyoning tour led by a sustainable operator, take a woodworking course, or embark on a forestry program where you’ll plant trees and prune branches.

From scenic hiking trails to hot spring baths, there’s plenty to enjoy on Mount Takao. The 1,965-foot (599m) tall mountain is only a one-hour train ride from Tokyo’s city center, making it a popular day trip spot.

Six trails lead to the summit of Mount Takao, where you’ll be rewarded with views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Along the way, you’ll pass by Buddhist temples, a monkey park, and more interesting sights. If you’d rather relax, I recommend taking the cable car or chairlift up. Do note that there are no trash cans on this sacred mountain, so prepare to pocket your own trash and take it down the mountain with you.

Located in western Tokyo, Ome is a quaint suburban city nestled in the foothills of the Okutama Mountains. Apart from the city’s incredible scenery—the Tama River flows through Ome—it’s also worth a visit for a dose of nostalgia.

As Ome still preserves a post-war, old-school aesthetic, a trip here feels like stepping into the Showa period, right from the moment you arrive in the train station that’s decorated with vintage posters. You can even visit the Showa Retro Goods Museum to explore traces of Tokyo’s past, or wander around a 200-year-old thatched farmhouse known as the Former Miyazaki Family Residence.

Did you know that Tokyo boasts a group of volcanic islands? Known as the Izu Islands, they form two towns and six villages. Oshima, located approximately two hours away from Tokyo by boat, is the largest of them all, and a popular destination for locals looking to get away from the city.

The island is home to Mount Mihara, an active volcano. Here is where visitors can journey over black sand dunes and peer down at a majestic crater. While touring the island, you’ll also spot the faulted strata known as “Baumkuchen,” named for their resemblance to the famous German cake.

Powdery white sand, cobalt waves, and the smell of salt in the air—visiting Niijima reminds me of a movie scene. Simply hop on a ferry ride from Takeshiba, located 15 minutes away from Tokyo station and you’ll arrive at the picturesque isle, a member of the Izu Islands.

Featuring pristine waters and stark white cliffs, Niijima’s Habushiura Beach is a popular surfing spot. I like to rent a bicycle and pedal along the long, sandy beach, spotting the intriguing Moyai sculptures scattered around. The island is also known for its glass art, which you can learn first-hand at the Niijima Glass Art Center.

Floating amid the Pacific Ocean, the Ogasawara Islands are a remote chain of volcanic islands only accessible from Takeshiba via a 24-hour long ferry ride. Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind as you immerse in nature and enjoy activities like hiking and snorkeling. I’ll also recommend to go whale-watching during February to April, as that's the best season to see Humpback whales and other amazing wildlife on the island.

Chichijima, one of two inhabited islands within Ogasawara (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is home to rich flora, fauna, and wildlife. The island is a tropical paradise, enjoying balmy temperatures all year round. Visitors are urged to take great care to protect this natural haven; camping and off-trail hiking are also strictly prohibited throughout Ogasawara.

Living in a bustling city, I always appreciate being able to get closer to nature when I travel. If you feel the same, you’ll love Hotel Niwa Tokyo, an urban oasis in the heart of the city.

With four unique and beautiful gardens, Hotel Niwa Tokyo sets the scene for a relaxing retreat. Each green space is meticulously maintained by landscape specialists, from its lush courtyard with a trickling stream to its bamboo-lined zen garden. The hotel is also within walking distance to multiple train stations, so guests can enjoy both convenience and comfort.

Mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection has been on my radar since it first opened in spring 2020. Launched by Marriott’s Autograph Collection and East Japan Railway Company, the hotel aims to mesmerize your senses with its harborside views, imaginative design, and luxurious facilities.

If that’s not all, I was also thrilled to learn that Mesm is an eco-friendly hotel. From recyclable glass bottles to quick-drying towels, Mesm’s amenities are designed to be as sustainable as possible. The hotel also collaborates with local brands like Y’s Bang On!, BULK HOMME, and Sarutahiko Coffee.

Described as a “hipster’s daydream”, Trunk (Hotel) isn’t just offering a place to stay—it’s sharing an experience. The hotel aims to create a sustainable society, focusing on environmental conservation, local-first products, diversity, health food, and Japanese culture.

Upcycled furnishings and contemporary artworks give Trunk (Hotel) a distinctive old-meets-new charm—I can imagine myself sitting on a stool made out of wine corks and gazing at paper washi art. Complimentary bikes are available for guests, and I love that we are able to shop for sustainable products at the in-house convenience store Trunk (Store). It’s no surprise that Trunk (Hotel) was named Asia’s Best Sustainable Hotel in the Marco Polo Members’ Choice Awards 2019.