Suitcase Solution
The creative way Tokyo hotels handle tourists' abandoned luggage.
Since reopening for inbound travel in October 2022, Japan has seen record tourism numbers, with over 3 million travelers in March 2024 alone. Along with the surge in visitors comes a surprising problem: tourists frequently leave behind belongings, including entire suitcases.
In Tokyo, hotels report an increase in abandoned, broken-down luggage. Disposing of these items can cost hotels around 2000 yen ($12.85) per suitcase. While some hotels try to contact guests to cover the disposal fee, most attempts are unsuccessful.
Hotel Niwa in Chiyoda has found a creative solution. They use abandoned suitcases as planters in their greenhouse, growing herbs and vegetables for their restaurants. πΏπ This eco-friendly initiative not only saves disposal costs but also supports their sustainability efforts. The hotel even started beekeeping, using the honey in their culinary creations. π―π.
Have you ever seen such a creative solution for handling abandoned luggage? π€
Source: Unseen Japan
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