Sustainable excellence: Dusit Thani’s Kyoto initiatives redefining hospitality
Dusit International is making significant strides towards sustainable hospitality with two groundbreaking initiatives at its premier establishments in Japan. ASAI Kyoto Shijo, a lifestyle-focused venture that opened its doors in June, and the luxurious Dusit Thani Kyoto, set to welcome guests on September 1, are emblematic of Dusit’s unwavering commitment to leaving a positive mark wherever it operates.
Aligned with Dusit’s group-wide sustainability initiative, the Tree of Life program, these initiatives embrace 31 criteria in harmony with the United Nations’ Global Sustainable Development Goals. Moreover, they focus on Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) components specific to the industry. What sets these initiatives apart is their profound connection to the communities they serve and the holistic value they create.
In the heart of Kyoto, Dusit has partnered with Tea Room Inc., an esteemed tea manufacturer deeply committed to sustainability. Together, they are giving life to the Dusit Tea Garden in Wazuka, a town renowned for its exquisite green tea. Spanning over 2,500 square meters, this meticulously nurtured haven will exclusively produce organic tea for ASAI Kyoto Shijo and Dusit Thani Kyoto. The hotels’ sustainable ethos extends as food waste from these properties is repurposed as compost to nourish the tea garden. Importantly, Dusit envisions sharing this organic tea with its international properties in the future, reinforcing a global commitment to eco-conscious indulgence.
In a parallel pursuit of green excellence, Dusit has partnered with OHARA FARMY, a champion of organic farming and sustainable land use, to establish Dusit Farm. Located just 20 minutes from Kyoto’s heart, this expansive oasis in Oharanomuracho, Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, yields premium produce. With a focus on procuring vegetables essential for authentic Thai cuisine, Dusit aims to reduce its dependence on imported produce, ensuring the authenticity of flavours at its Thai-inspired restaurants like Soi Gaeng at ASAI Kyoto Shijo and Ayatana at Dusit Thani Kyoto. This harmonious blend of sustainability and gastronomic finesse promises to redefine culinary narratives.
Beyond the plate, the Dusit Farm serves as a platform for guests to actively engage in cultivating vegetables. This transforms their stay into an educational and meaningful experience, forging a profound connection between guests, the land, and the nourishment they consume.
Dusit’s endeavours in Kyoto go beyond hotels; they are about forging lasting connections, minimizing ecological footprints, and championing community enrichment. As Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo pave the way for sustainability-driven luxury and experiences, they set the standard for the future of hospitality, where sustainability is not just a concept but a thriving reality.
These initiatives are not mere gestures; they represent a profound shift in the hospitality landscape. With a steadfast commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Dusit is creating ripples of positive change that extend far beyond the walls of its hotels. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and vision, where luxury and sustainability seamlessly intertwine to create authentic, memorable experiences that benefit both guests and the broader community.
Dusit Thani Kyoto, a jewel in the prestigious Dusit Thani brand, opens its doors to offer travelers a sumptuous retreat in Kyoto’s Higashishiokoji district, just 850 meters from Kyoto Station. The hotel blends Japanese heritage with Thai hospitality, creating an urban oasis. With 147 meticulously designed guest rooms, expansive event venues, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and the Devarana Wellness center, Dusit Thani Kyoto is poised to offer a captivating experience. The hotel’s commitment to excellence extends to its culinary offerings, with Chef Shoji Nakashio (Richard) and Chef Okubo crafting unforgettable dining experiences.
Operating under the ASAI Hotels brand, ASAI Kyoto Shijo is a 114-key hotel located in Kyoto’s bustling Shijo-Karasuma area, near the iconic Nishiki Market. This innovative concept emphasizes quality and comfort in intelligently designed compact rooms. ASAI Kyoto Shijo serves as a versatile communal hub for guests, encouraging interactions and offering a vibrant Thai restaurant, Soi Gaeng, inspired by Bangkok’s street-food culture. Sustainability is a core value, with collaborations with local artisans and thoughtful produce sourcing enhancing the guest experience while supporting the local community.
Dusit International’s initiatives in Kyoto are setting a new standard for sustainable luxury and community engagement in the hospitality industry, proving that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously to create a brighter future for all.
For more information, head over to Dusit International’s website here.