nrc.nl
Record Tourist Numbers in Japan: Overcrowding in Major Cities Spurs Regional Tourism Initiatives
In 2024, Japan welcomed a record 36.8 million foreign tourists, a 50% increase from 2023, due to a weak yen and relaxed visa rules; however, major cities face overtourism issues, prompting Nagano and other regions to actively attract visitors with initiatives such as new cycling routes and improved accessibility.
- How are Japanese cities responding to the challenges of overtourism?
- Overtourism in major Japanese cities is causing significant issues, including traffic congestion and littering. Kyoto, for example, is implementing measures like restricting access to private roads and increasing tourist taxes to manage the crowds. Nagano, in contrast, is actively promoting its natural beauty and outdoor activities to attract tourists away from the overcrowded urban areas.
- What are the primary impacts of the record number of tourists visiting Japan in 2024?
- Japan saw a record 36.8 million foreign tourists in 2024, a 50% increase from 2023, driven by a weak yen and relaxed visa rules. However, this influx is concentrated in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, leading to overcrowding and frustration among residents. Nagano, a less-visited region, is actively promoting tourism to alleviate pressure on the major urban centers.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of Japan's tourism strategy, both for popular and less-visited regions?
- Nagano's strategy of promoting its natural attractions, such as skiing in Hakuba and cycling routes, coupled with improved accessibility via JR railways, aims to attract tourists and revitalize its economy. The success of this strategy will be crucial for balancing economic growth with the preservation of local environments and quality of life. The high tourist tax in Kyoto, reaching up to \$62 per night in luxury hotels, showcases an alternative approach to managing overtourism, though its long-term effects remain to be seen.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue of overtourism primarily through the lens of the negative experiences of residents in major cities. While this is understandable given the context, it might inadvertently downplay the economic benefits of tourism or the positive aspects of controlled tourist growth in less-visited areas. The headline (if there was one) would likely reinforce this framing. The early focus on the negative impacts of overcrowding in major cities sets the tone for the rest of the article.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and objective. However, phrases such as "stedelingen raken steeds meer gefrustreerd" (city dwellers are increasingly frustrated) and descriptions of overcrowded trains as a "hoopje aan toeristen en lokale mensen" (a heap of tourists and local people) might carry slightly negative connotations. More neutral alternatives could include "city dwellers express concerns about" and "a large number of tourists and locals.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the overcrowding in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and the measures taken to address it. However, it omits discussion of the potential negative impacts of increased tourism in Nagano and other less-visited regions. While the article mentions efforts to improve infrastructure and manage crowds in Nagano, it doesn't explore potential downsides such as strain on local resources or environmental concerns. This omission prevents a fully balanced perspective on the issue of tourism in Japan.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by contrasting the overcrowded major cities with the quieter Nagano prefecture, implying that these are the only two options for tourists. It overlooks the diverse range of experiences and locations available throughout Japan, creating a simplified view of the tourism landscape.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights Japan's efforts to manage overtourism in major cities like Kyoto and Tokyo, while promoting sustainable tourism in less-visited regions like Nagano. Kyoto is implementing strategies to better distribute tourists, such as real-time crowd monitoring, dedicated tourist buses, and increased tourist taxes to fund infrastructure improvements. Nagano, on the other hand, is actively attracting tourists with its natural beauty and improved facilities, offering a more sustainable tourism model. These actions contribute to SDG 11 by aiming for inclusive and sustainable urbanization, ensuring access to green and public spaces, and promoting sustainable tourism.