Tokushima is located on the eastern part of the island of Shikoku in Japan. Known for its natural beauty, this prefecture is characterized by lush green mountains, scenic rivers, blue sea, and the breathtaking Pacific Ocean coastline. It is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional elements. To travel to Tokushima, Osaka is the closer and more convenient access point. You can take a 40-minute Shinkansen ride from Shin-Osaka to Okayama or a 2-hour bus ride from Osaka station.

 

Tokushima has a variety of notable attractions such as the Naruto whirlpools that occur along the Shikoku coast of the Naruto Strait. It is also most famous for Awa Odori , a lively traditional dance festival held annually in August, drawing visitors from across Japan and around the world.

 

However, above its recognized cultural heritage and stunning attractions, Tokushima actively champions sustainability with its zero-waste projects. With its unique blend of tradition, nature, and modernity, Tokushima offers a captivating experience for travelers seeking an authentic and environmentally conscious destination.

 

Exploring Sustainability in Kamikatsu, the Zero Waste Town

 

Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center

 

 

In the heart of Tokushima is the Kamikatsu, also known as Japan’s first Zero Waste Town, which stands as a beacon of innovation in environmental conservation. Here, residents are not just asked but willingly sort their waste into 45 different categories, all of which are either reused or recycled into something new. With the efforts of the community, Kamikatsu continues to recycle more than 80% of its waste.

 

The Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center was established to educate not only the residents but also the visitors to participate and learn how to incorporate a zero-waste lifestyle. The whole structure of the facility resembles a question mark. It revolves around the question of "why?": Why do we buy things? Why do we throw them away? Why do we make things? Why do we sell them? It prompts us to consider various "why" questions that arise from waste we encounter in our everyday routines.

 

Through engaging and informative zero-waste programs, residents and visitors are introduced to a deeper understanding of sustainability, extending the promotion of eco-conscious practices to broader regions. Travelers witness firsthand the intersection of innovation and environmental stewardship, making it a must-visit for those passionate about sustainable living and conscious travel.

 

 

 

KURU KURU Shop

 

 

Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center’s facilities include the KURU KURU Shop (thrift shop) that play a crucial role in supporting local artisans and sustainable practices. The term "kuru-kuru" translates to "circular" or "revolving" in Japanese, reflecting the shop's ethos of creating a circular economy. It is a unique and innovative concept that contributes significantly to the town's commitment to zero waste and sustainability.

 

The KURU KURU shop operates as a swap shop, where residents of Kamikatsu can drop off household goods and appliances that are still in usable condition. These items are then available for other residents and non-residents to take home, free of charge. While non-residents can also take items, the store only accepts contributions from Kamikatsu residents. The shop essentially facilitates the reuse and repurposing of goods, promoting a culture of sharing and reducing the overall waste generated by the community.

 

 

Comfort in Conservation

 

HOTEL WHY

 

 

For eco-conscious travelers seeking sustainable accommodation, HOTEL WHY offers more than just a place to rest. This structure mirrors the main recycling facility, utilizing predominantly cedar lumber and repurposed materials such as windows and tiles. It playfully serves as the finishing dot to the question mark structure of the Kamikatsu Zero Waste Center.

 

The guest rooms are all maisonettes that can accommodate up to 4 people. A total of 4 rooms are available, 2 lakeside and 2 mountainside. Visitors can also participate in its ecological cause by bringing their own toiletries and travel essentials. Upon check in, soap and a beverage will be provided based on consumption determined by weight. 

 

During their stay, guests are invited to participate in STUDY WHY, an engaging and enlightening study tour on the facility and on sustainability (offered only in Japanese). They also have the opportunity to navigate the town's rigorous recycling separation process, getting hands-on experience in sustainable living.

 

It is important to note that HOTEL WHY has no restaurants or vending machines. There are also no convenience stores or supermarkets in Kamikatsu, and there are only a few restaurants available. Make sure to plan ahead and secure advance reservations for this trip.

 

 

 

©INOW Kamikatsu Official Website

 

INOW is an immersive sustainability program located in Kamikatsu, the first “Zero Waste” village in Japan. INOW, pronounced “ee-no”, in the Awa dialect, means "let's go home," inviting guests to feel at home in Kamikatsu. INOW facilitates authentic connections between guests, the natural environment, and local teachers.

 

The base of each program starts with zero waste but quickly expands into exploring sustainability through lifestyle and wisdom of the past. INOW offers fully-guided programs that allow visitors to choose between a two-hour zero-waste workshop, a full one-day experience, or customized programs spanning a minimum of 2 days and 3 nights in English and Japanese. INOW welcomes individual travelers, families, high schools, universities, and researchers from around the world to connect to Japanese culture and learn about a village trying to make a difference.

For more information and inquiries: https://inowkamikatsu.com/