Okinawa, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Nagasaki: Japan’s First Green Fins Resort Ushers in New Era of Sustainable Ocean Tourism
Japan’s travel landscape is evolving rapidly, and the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort in Okinawa is setting a new standard for sustainability, luxury, and ocean conservation. Located on the picturesque shores of Onna Village, this pioneering property has achieved the first-ever Green Fins certification in Japan, marking a transformative moment for eco-tourism and responsible hospitality nationwide.
Okinawa, a beloved destination celebrated for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and rich Ryukyuan culture, now stands at the forefront of Japan’s eco-tourism revolution. The ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort has moved beyond traditional luxury, positioning itself as a true steward of the marine environment through practical conservation initiatives, guest education programs, and immersive eco-friendly experiences.
Tourists seeking meaningful vacations in Japan’s popular cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, and Nagasaki, now have a compelling reason to include Okinawa in their itinerary. At ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort, travelers don’t simply stay—they actively engage with the environment through coral restoration, underwater cleanups, and exploration aboard advanced glass-bottom submarines.
Key highlights of ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort:
- Japan’s first Green Fins-certified resort
- Coral reef restoration and marine conservation initiatives
- Eco-focused activities: snorkeling, kayaking, SUP yoga, submarine excursions
- Authentic Okinawan hospitality and luxurious accommodations
- Plant-based and Michelin-recognized dining options
- Located within the protected Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park
Luxury Rooted in Okinawa’s Heritage and Natural Beauty
Stepping into the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort, guests instantly recognize a serene balance between luxury and Okinawa’s natural beauty. Over 400 guestrooms blend coastal charm with modern comfort, while the exclusive Club InterContinental offers panoramic ocean views from its elegant lounge, featuring gourmet meals and local delicacies.
Guestrooms showcase thoughtful design, integrating Okinawa’s oceanic hues, warm coral accents, and contemporary minimalism. Signature suites, such as the renowned Manza Suite, boast private verandas overlooking the East China Sea, grounding visitors in the serenity and splendor of island life.
An Elevated Culinary Experience
The resort’s food and beverage program exemplifies sustainability, with menus crafted around locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. From international cuisine at Aqua Belle, authentic sushi and teppanyaki at Unkai, refined Ryukyu-style dishes at Orchid, to award-winning beachfront pizzas at PST OKINAWA by the Sea, each venue delivers flavors reflective of Okinawa’s vibrant culinary culture.
Special attention is given to dietary preferences, including a variety of plant-based options—a rarity in luxury resorts throughout Okinawa.
Connecting Guests to Okinawa’s Ecosystem
Beyond exceptional hospitality, the resort’s true hallmark is its dedication to conservation. In 2024, scientists reported that approximately 54% of Japan’s coral reefs were impacted by bleaching events, primarily driven by climate change-induced marine heatwaves. Okinawa, home to nearly 80% of Japan’s coral, stands particularly vulnerable. This has spurred ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort to pioneer a community-focused approach to conservation:
- Coral Conservation Activity Program: Guests participate in planting and monitoring coral nurseries, directly contributing to reef restoration.
- Underwater Cleanups: Specialized dive teams systematically remove marine debris, promoting healthier ocean habitats.
- Submarine Jr. II Experience: Unique glass-encased submersibles allow guests to observe over 4,000 species, from parrotfish to sea turtles, within thriving coral regeneration zones.
What is Green Fins Certification?
Green Fins is a global environmental initiative led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and The Reef-World Foundation. ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort became the first hotel in Japan to achieve this certification in 2021 by implementing sustainable diving and snorkeling practices designed to protect coral reefs and marine life.
As a Green Fins resort, the hotel commits to:
- Reducing environmental impact through responsible marine tourism.
- Educating guests on ocean-friendly practices.
- Engaging in continual sustainability training and awareness.
The Role of Tourism in Okinawa’s Economy and Ecology
Tourism represents over 26% of Okinawa’s GDP, underscoring the critical economic importance of sustainable marine ecosystems. Coral reefs significantly reduce wave impact, protecting coastal communities and supporting fisheries that sustain thousands of local livelihoods.
Climate-related threats, including ocean acidification and rising sea temperatures, have made proactive conservation imperative. Resorts like ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort are stepping up, recognizing their role in preserving Okinawa’s ecological and economic well-being.
Experiences Beyond the Resort: Exploring Okinawa Responsibly
For visitors seeking deeper cultural connections, the resort facilitates access to iconic sites like the elephant-shaped cliff at Cape Manzamo, part of Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park. Here, guests learn firsthand the significance of natural landmarks within Okinawan culture and history.
On-site, over 40 recreational activities blend enjoyment with ecological mindfulness, including:
- Guided kayaking tours
- Sunset cruises
- Snorkeling in protected areas
- Beachfront yoga sessions
- Exploration of Okinawa’s native flora, like pandanus and yuuna blossoms
Setting the Standard for Future Tourism Development
ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort’s dedication to sustainability, luxury, and authentic cultural immersion signals a broader shift within Japan’s hospitality industry. By prioritizing responsible tourism and guest education, the resort provides a blueprint that other properties across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Nagasaki, and beyond can follow.
In embracing sustainable tourism, ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort not only protects Okinawa’s environment but enriches the visitor experience—demonstrating that luxury, conservation, and community stewardship can beautifully coexist.
Ultimately, this is more than a hotel stay; it’s an opportunity for travelers to meaningfully contribute to the future of Japan’s oceans, ecosystems, and cultural heritage.
This feature positions the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort as a leader in sustainable luxury, actively contributing to Okinawa’s ecological preservation and community prosperity, enhancing traveler experiences across Japan.
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