Japan is currently experiencing an unprecedented tourism boom. In the first half of 2024, more than 17.5 million tourists visited the land of the rising sun - more than ever before in this period. It is particularly noteworthy that the majority of visitors come from the country's immediate neighbor South Korea. A total of 4.4 million South Koreans decided to travel to Japan, which represents a significant increase compared to previous years.
The flow of tourists is spread across the country, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto. However, this unprecedented increase in tourists is not only being greeted with enthusiasm. While the economy benefits from the revenue generated by tourism, complaints about its negative impact are also growing.
The historic city of Kyoto, known for its well-preserved shrines, temples and traditional teahouses, is particularly affected. Kyoto residents are increasingly complaining about overcrowded streets, noise and increased pollution. The city administration is forced to take measures to mitigate the negative effects of tourism. For example, behavioral guidelines for tourists have been introduced to encourage respectful behavior in temples and traditional quarters.
Another problem is the congestion of public transport and tourist attractions. Many famous sights, such as the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine or the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, are regularly overcrowded, which affects the experience for visitors and locals alike. In Tokyo, the influx of tourists leads to increased traffic, which in turn affects air quality.
Some regions are trying to spread the flow of tourists by promoting lesser-known destinations. This is not only intended to reduce the pressure on the main attractions, but also to boost the economy in less-frequented areas. Regions such as Tohoku and Shikoku are increasingly promoting their natural beauty and cultural treasures to lure tourists away from the crowded cities.
The Japanese government has set itself the goal of further promoting tourism and attracting 60 million visitors annually by 2030. In doing so, greater focus will be placed on sustainable tourism practices. Environmental protection measures and the promotion of ecotourism are important components of this strategy.
Overall, Japan faces the challenge of finding the balance between economic benefit and preserving the quality of life for locals. The record-breaking tourist flows in the first half of 2024 are a clear sign of Japan's continued attractiveness as a travel destination. At the same time, however, they also make it clear that sustainable and responsible tourism management is essential to satisfy both visitors and locals in the long term.