euronews.com
Otaru Deploys Guards to Combat Overtourism
Otaru, a Japanese port city, is deploying security guards at key locations until the end of March to manage overtourism during the Lunar New Year, following a tourist's death on train tracks while taking a photo.
- What broader factors contribute to the overtourism problem in Japan, and what are the consequences of this issue?
- The security measures in Otaru are a response to a rise in overtourism in Japan, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. A recent fatality involving a tourist on train tracks highlights the risks of unsafe photo-taking behaviour. The deployment of guards and signage in multiple languages reflects a broader effort by Japanese authorities to address overtourism and improve visitor conduct.
- What immediate actions are being taken in Otaru to address the dangers of overtourism and improve tourist safety?
- Otaru, a Japanese port city, has deployed security guards at popular tourist spots to manage crowds and prevent accidents during the Lunar New Year. These guards will stop tourists from blocking areas to take photos, particularly on the Funamizaka slope, a popular filming location. This follows a recent death of a tourist who was hit by a train while taking a photo on the tracks.
- What are the potential long-term implications of Otaru's approach to managing tourist crowds, and how might this model be adapted in other areas facing similar issues?
- Otaru's initiative foreshadows potential future strategies for managing overtourism in popular destinations worldwide. The combination of physical security measures and multilingual communication could be adopted by other locations facing similar challenges. The long-term success will depend on enforcing responsible tourism practices and educating visitors about respectful behaviour.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative emphasizes the negative aspects of tourism, highlighting disruptive behavior and accidents. The headline and opening paragraphs immediately set a negative tone, focusing on security measures and the problems caused by tourists. This framing may unduly influence readers' perceptions of tourism in Japan.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "drastic move", "clogging up the area", and "disruptive tourist behaviour". These phrases create a negative perception of tourists. More neutral alternatives could be: "increased security measures", "congestion", and "visitor behavior".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative impacts of tourism in Otaru and Japan, but omits potential positive economic contributions tourism brings to these areas. It also doesn't explore alternative solutions beyond security measures and restrictions, such as improved infrastructure or educational campaigns targeting responsible tourism.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the issue as solely a conflict between locals and tourists. It overlooks the complexity of managing tourism sustainably, ignoring the potential for collaboration and mutual benefit.
Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative to manage overtourism in Otaru directly contributes to Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) by aiming to protect the city's infrastructure, environment, and quality of life for residents. The measures taken address issues of overcrowding, unsafe tourist behavior, and environmental damage, all of which negatively impact the sustainability of the city. By implementing security measures and providing etiquette guidance, Otaru seeks to balance tourism with the well-being of its residents and the preservation of its cultural heritage.