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Overtourism Poses Challenges to Japan’s Efforts to Boost Tourist Arrivals
Japan's tourist arrivals are projected to fully recover to pre-Covid levels by 2024, with growth continuing through 2028, although overtourism poses a downside risk to this expansion.
Key View: Over 2024, we project tourist arrivals to Japan to fully recover to pre-Covid levels in 2019, building on a gradual rebound between 2022-2023. Over the medium term (2024-2028), we forecast arrivals will continue strengthening, with growth driven by an expansion in the pool of major source markets, increased tourism marketing campaigns and easing barriers of entry.
However, overtourism will pose a downside risk to the Japan National Tourism Organization’s (JNTO) drive to expand arrivals to the market over the medium-to-long term (2024-2030).
Japan’s Balancing Act: Managing Overtourism Amidst Tourism Boom
Japan’s tourism industry is facing a unique challenge as it welcomes a record-breaking number of visitors. The allure of the country’s rich culture, advanced technology, and beautiful landscapes has led to a surge in tourist arrivals, with a significant increase to 17.78 million foreign visitors in the first half of 2024 alone. This boom is a testament to Japan’s efforts to boost its tourism sector, especially after the pandemic-induced lull.
However, with this surge comes the phenomenon of overtourism, which has raised concerns about the sustainability of such growth. Overtourism can lead to environmental degradation, infrastructure strain, and a diminished quality of life for local residents. Japan is not new to this issue; popular destinations like Kyoto have long experienced the pressures of excessive tourist footfall, affecting everything from local customs to the natural environment.
To address these challenges, Japan is considering measures such as additional taxes for visitors to mitigate the impact of overtourism. The government and industry stakeholders are also exploring strategies to manage the influx, such as promoting off-the-beaten-path destinations and improving infrastructure to better accommodate the growing numbers.
The key to Japan’s success will lie in finding a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the very aspects that make the country an attractive destination. This includes safeguarding cultural sites, ensuring the well-being of local communities, and protecting natural resources.
Overtourism has emerged as a significant concern for Japan, particularly as the nation seeks to boost its tourist arrivals. However, the influx of tourists can lead to environmental degradation, strain on local infrastructure, and a diminished quality of life for residents, particularly in popular destinations like Kyoto and Tokyo.
The cultural and historical significance of these cities makes them hotspots for tourists, but their delicate ecosystems and communities are now bearing the brunt of overtourism. Streets once peaceful and serene are crowded with travelers, leading to increased noise, waste, and pressure on public services. Local businesses thrive, yet long-term sustainability becomes questionable as famed temples and sites suffer from wear and tear.
To combat overtourism, Japan must embrace a holistic approach that includes sustainable practices, such as promoting lesser-known areas and encouraging off-peak travel. By focusing on the balance between visitor engagement and preservation, Japan can ensure its rich heritage remains intact while still welcoming travelers from around the world.
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