▼ Click here for new applications ▼
*Before applying, please ensure you review the audit process, criteria, and fees listed below.
We host a monthly webinar to provide an overview of Green Key, held every third Friday at 11:00 AM (JST).
Anyone can join for free. Click below to register.
About Green Key
The international eco-label "Green Key" maintains strict criteria established by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), headquartered in Denmark. It evaluates and verifies the environmental policies and sustainable operations of accommodation facilities of all sizes, from luxury hotels to campsites. By choosing Green Key-certified establishments, consumers contribute directly to the promotion of sustainable tourism, driving positive change across all sectors of society.
Green Key's environmental standards are meticulously documented, and certified facilities are required to undergo regular re-audits to maintain and continually improve their initiatives.. As of January 2026, more than 9,000 facilities in over 85 countries worldwide have achieved Green Key certification,a number that continues to grow.
The Japan Alliance of Responsible Travel Agencies (JARTA) officially launched its operations as the national operator for Green Key in Japan in April 2022. This enables localized support for obtaining the eco-label in Japanese, as well as audits conducted by Japanese auditors. This structure makes the certification process more accessible, straightforward, and cost-effective for accommodation operators across Japan.
Features of Green Key
〇 An internationally recognized eco-label
Green Key is a globally adopted system in the tourism sector. To obtain the award, facilities must meet internationally defined criteria covering environmental and broader sustainability topics, and undergo regular evaluations by an independent third-party committee.
〇 A clear communication tool for guests
Green Key emphasizes communication with guests and promotes sustainable activities that reflect customer needs. As a result, the Green Key logo is widely recognized—particularly in Europe—by travelers and travel agencies as a key indicator when selecting hotels.
〇 Proof of implementing the latest environmental measures
Green Key assessments evaluate both the quality of a facility’s environmental efforts and the management system that ensures continuous improvement. Superficial environmental measures are not sufficient; however, the process of obtaining the award itself helps facilities implement effective environmental strategies.
From October 2026, revisions to the system are planned. This page introduces the currently published overview. For the latest information and details, please check the link below (updated regularly):
https://www.greenkey.global/criteria-20262031
Audit and Certification Process
Time Required: 7 to 10 business days
Time Required: Approximately 1 month
Time Required: Around 1 month (Coordinating schedules between the facility and the auditor)
Time Required: 1 week
Time Required: 2 weeks
*All prices listed below include tax.
Annual Membership Fees
| A | Before obtaining the eco-label: “System Registration Fee (Registered Member)” | 55,000 JPY |
| B | Hotels/Ryokan 1 (16–99 rooms) | 168,000 JPY |
| C | Hotels/Ryokan 2 (100 rooms or more) | 258,000 JPY |
| D | Small-scale accommodation (15 rooms or fewer) (Inns, pensions, guesthouses, private lodgings, cottages, trailer houses, etc.) | 103,000 JPY |
| E | Campgrounds (auto-camps, glamping, and other temporary/tent-based accommodations) | 129,000 JPY |
Assessment Fees
Assessment fee per facility, per category: 110,000 yen. One auditor conducts the assessment. Travel and transportation expenses for the auditor are charged separately. For large facilities in Category C, two auditors are required. Thus, the assessment fee is 110,000 yen × 2, plus travel and transportation expenses for both auditors.
| Assessment fee (under 100 rooms) — 1 auditor | 110,000 JPY |
| Assessment fee (100 rooms or more) — 2 auditors | 220,000 JPY |
| Auditor travel expenses (transportation, lodging, etc.) | Actual cost charged separately |
▼ Click here for new applications ▼
We host a monthly webinar to provide an overview of Green Key, held every third Friday at 11:00 AM (JST).
Anyone can join for free. Click below to register.
