Japan and its struggle with mass tourism

14-11-24

Japan, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and stunning scenery, has experienced a boom in tourism in recent years. However, the rapid increase in the number of visitors has created significant challenges, forcing the country to take steps to balance tourism development with the quality of life of its residents and the preservation of its environment.

In 2023, Japan managed to welcome nearly 32 million tourists, approaching pre-pandemic levels. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has set an ambitious goal of reaching 60 million annual visitors by 2030. While this represents a significant economic opportunity, it has also generated problems such as congestion at popular destinations, deterioration of natural and cultural sites, and increased tension between residents and tourists.

One of the most notorious examples is found at Mount Fuji, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. This emblem of Japanese tourism has seen a massive increase in the number of visitors, leading to problems with litter, ecological damage and overcrowded trails. In addition, small towns such as Kawaguchi, in the Five Lakes region, face traffic and noise problems due to the increase in tourists.

To address these concerns, the Japanese government and local administrations have implemented a number of strategies that seek to mitigate the impact of mass tourism without sacrificing their economic growth.

One of the most prominent measures is the introduction of a 2,000 yen (approximately 12 euros) tax for those wishing to climb Mount Fuji. This fee is intended to generate funds for environmental conservation and to improve access infrastructure. In addition, daily limits have been set on the number of climbers allowed on the most popular trails.

At Kawaguchi, a 1.8-meter-high fence has been installed to prevent tourists from parking haphazardly and obstructing passage. This effort aims to reduce road congestion and protect the peace of mind of the local community. These initiatives also reflect a broader approach to regulating tourism in urban and rural destinations.

The growth of tourism has also revealed structural problems in the local economy. In rural regions and less developed prefectures, labor shortages in the service sector have become a major obstacle. The lack of workers in hotels, restaurants and transportation operators limits the ability of these areas to handle large numbers of visitors.

To address this challenge, the government is considering policies that encourage young people and foreigners to work in these regions by promoting jobs in the tourism sector and strengthening training in specific skills. Technological solutions are also being explored, such as the use of artificial intelligence and robots to optimize services.

Japan's goal is to strike a balance between attracting tourists and protecting its cultural and natural heritage. Sustainability is now a priority for many destinations within the country. Initiatives such as promoting lesser-known destinations, encouraging visits during low seasons and educating tourists about responsible behavior are gaining ground.

Japan faces the challenge of managing mass tourism in a way that benefits its economy and society, without compromising the future of its resources. With innovative measures and a sustainable vision, the country could become a global model for responsible tourism in the coming decades.