VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI

UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

MID-TERM ASSIGNMENT

Course name : ENGLISH FOR TOURISM

Instructor : TRINH NGOC ANH

Student’s name : PHAM THI MINH TAM

Student’s ID : 20061248

Hanoi, 2024
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION 4

3. KEY ACTIVITIES OF SUSTAINABILITY IN TOURISM IN KYOTO 4

4. THE CHALLENGE FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN TOURISM IN KYOTO 4

5. REFERENCES 4

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 1. Introduction

2019 UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture (Source: UNWTO.org)

Kyoto exemplifies the model of sustainable tourism. The city prioritizes a

balance between the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors, creating a fulfilling
and enriching experience for all. In fact, at the 2019 UNWTO/UNESCO World
Conference on Tourism and Culture, UNESCO and UNWTO adopted the "Kyoto
Model" as a framework for sustainable tourism development around the world
(Kawano, K.2020).

2. Background information

Kyoto breathes tradition, capturing the very soul of the "Land of the Rising
Sun." Unlike other major cities, Kyoto boasts no towering skyscrapers or jarring
modern structures. Kyoto embodies the essence of ancient Japan, where life flows at a
serene pace, fostering tranquility and a sense of deep harmony. This dedication to the
past is reflected in the city's incredible collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites –
a staggering 17 in total (Rowthorn, W. B. C. 2020).

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 )

Higashiyama, Kyoto’s old town (Source: 22places.com)

In addition, Kyoto is also famous for its Geisha district, Gion. This alluring
enclave pulsates with life, boasting a vibrant tapestry of shops, restaurants, and ochaya
(teahouses). Here, geisha, known as geiko in the Kyoto dialect, and their apprentices,
the maiko, entertain guests with their artistry and grace (Nahobm. 2023).

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 Geishas in Kyoto. (Source: ANADOLU AGENCY/GETTY IMAGES)

3. Key activities of sustainability in tourism in Kyoto

Kyoto's government has done a lot of practical behavior to balance the needs of
tourist practices with the city's well-being.

 Establishing a code of conduct

According to the Kyoto City and DMO KYOTO (2020), The Code of Conduct
for Sustainable Tourism in Kyoto was launched in November 2020. It isn't just a set of
rules; it's a roadmap for a respectful and enriching experience for all. This framework
prioritizes a balance between tourist enjoyment, environmental protection, and resident
well-being. As stated in Forbes (2023), this code of conduct has been effective in
fostering more mindful tourism in Kyoto.

Though not the first of its kind, Kyoto's Code of Conduct for Sustainable
Tourism offers a nuanced approach compared to others. While many codes address
responsible tourist behavior and environmental protection such as Barcelona and
Venice, Kyoto's might be more comprehensive, encompassing disaster preparedness
and respect for cultural heritage. Additionally, the code emphasizes a balance between
the needs of tourists, businesses, and residents, which may differ from other initiatives
that prioritize resident well-being over tourism benefits.

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 The official website of Kyoto (Source: Minh Tam)

 Implementing the Kyoto City Landscape Policy

Kyoto's unique blend of historical buildings and stunning natural landscapes,

particularly its traditional Kyo-machiya townhouses, is a major draw for tourists. The
city implemented a new Landscape Policy in September 2007 to preserve this charm to
promote sustainable tourism development.

Kyo-machiya (Kyoto traditional townhouse) (Source: wmf.org)

The Kyoto City Landscape Policy (2007) insisted that the height of buildings is
an important element that forms the city landscape and environment. The government
has revised building height regulations in 3 districts, including Historical City Areas,
Residential Areas in Mountain Foothills, and Industrial Areas. Notably, maximum
building heights have been reduced across approximately 30% of urbanization areas,
which equates to around 15,000 hectares. Formerly, maximum heights were set at
10m, 15m, 20m, 31m, and 45m, but they have now been adjusted to 10m, 12m, 15m,
20m, 25m, and 31m. This significant reduction in maximum heights aims to maintain

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the traditional atmosphere of Kyoto and not to spoil the city’s views in the eyes of
tourists.

4. The challenge for sustainability in tourism in Kyoto

Geisha are globally recognized icons of Japanese culture and heritage. Adorned
in elaborate kimonos, intricate hairdos, and captivating makeup, they epitomize
Japan's beauty and grace. In Japan, geisha command immense respect due to their
extensive training in mastering traditional Japanese musical instruments and dance
forms over numerous years (Carol. 2024).

Recently, Kyoto's famed geisha district, Gion, faces a serious challenge:

tourists. Overwhelmed by disruptive visitors who harass and photograph geisha
relentlessly, the district is implementing a drastic measure. Starting in April 2024, a
ban on tourists entering alleys and streets where geisha reside will be enforced (Saki
Toi & Lilit Marcus, 2024). This decision comes after years of complaints and failed
attempts to curb disrespectful behavior through signs and fines. However, the main
thoroughfare of Gion, Hanamikoji will remain accessible and most geisha still use this
road, the problems are still not completely solved. This move underscores the ongoing
struggle to balance tourism's economic benefits with preserving cultural traditions.

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 Geisha paparazzi (Source: CNN)

5. References

1. Kawano, K. (2020, January 14). UNESCO and UNWTO adopt ‘Kyoto Model’
for sustainable tourism. Zenbird. https://zenbird.media/unesco-and-unwto-
adopt-kyoto-model-for-sustainable-tourism/
2. Rowthorn, W. B. C. (2020, March 22). Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Inside
Kyoto. https://www.insidekyoto.com/kyoto-unesco-world-heritage-sites
3. Nahobm. (2023, October 13). Gion: Traditional Geisha district in Kyoto. Japan
Web Magazine. https://jw-webmagazine.com/kyotos-geisha-district-gion-
b57b835259cf/
4. Kyoto City and DMO KYOTO website https://www.moral.kyokanko.or.jp/en.
5. Elliott, C. (2023, November 8). A code of conduct for tourists? In Kyoto, Japan,
it’s working. Forbes.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2023/10/13/a-code-of-conduct-
for-tourists-in-kyoto-japan-its-working/?sh=2bde1cf07e13
6. Kyoto City Landscape Policy (2007) https://whc.unesco.org/document/116517
7. Saki Toi & Lilit Marcus (2024, April 18). Geisha, paparazzi and overtourism:
How Kyoto is protecting a cultural treasure. CNN
https://www.cnn.com/travel/geisha-paparazzi-overtourism-kyoto-intl-hnk/
index.html

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