2025 Volume 31 Pages 1-11
Although the goal of ecotourism is to balance tourism with environmental conservation, there are concerns regarding the excessive promotion of tourism. One measure to prevent excessive use is to certify tourism operators. However, certification is inconsistent with regional autonomy, and because it is a voluntary initiative, there may be limitations in its scope. Accordingly, we conducted a case study of a certified eco-tour guide system for Amami-Oshima Island in Japan to determine whether a certification system for eco-tour guides would promote the appropriate use of the environment. This study included interviews with stakeholders and a questionnaire survey administered to certified guides. To obtain certification, guides must complete a training course and possess guide experience. In addition to securing work, the guides also obtained certifications to improve their quality. Guides work at a higher frequency than in other areas. However, concerns arose because of the lack of penalties for self-regulation agreed upon by the Council and the presence of unqualified guides. We conclude that penalties and legal systems should be introduced for malicious cases. In addition, discussions of use regulations should involve both guides and residents in the negotiation process, and a third-party organization should be engaged to provide accreditation, ensuring that the impact of regulations is properly assessed.
