Japan's Action Plan to Transform Tourism and Global Engagement

The Japanese government has recently announced an action plan with the objective of increasing consumption by foreign visitors to Japan. This plan, which was approved at a ministerial meeting on Tuesday, focuses on attracting visitors for business, research, and other non-sightseeing purposes. The goal is to enhance their spending to ¥860 billion by 2025, representing a 20% increase compared to the pre-pandemic level in 2019.

Rather than solely prioritizing the number of visitors, the action plan was developed to introduce a series of measures that encourage higher consumption by foreign visitors. In total, 78 measures will be implemented in three key areas: business, education and research, and culture, arts, sports, and nature.

 

One of the key objectives of the plan is to increase the number of international conferences hosted in Japan, aiming to reach the top five in the world rankings by 2030. Additionally, the plan seeks to raise the number of foreign visitors who visit Japan for research purposes to 16,000 by 2025, representing a 20% increase compared to the 2019 figures.

Another important aspect of the action plan is the aim to establish a system for issuing a special visa for "digital nomads" by the end of fiscal year 2023. This visa would be designed for individuals who work remotely while traveling across the globe.

 

In March, the Cabinet approved the Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Plan, which includes a target of increasing the per capita consumption by tourists to ¥200,000, a ¥40,000 increase from the 2019 figures. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive strategy to attract more foreign visitors to Japan and boost their spending, with the ultimate goal of stimulating the country's economy.

 

The Japanese government's action plan for increased consumption by foreign visitors presents a promising vision for the future of tourism in Japan. By focusing on attracting visitors for various purposes beyond sightseeing and implementing a range of measures across different sectors, Japan aims to not only boost its economy but also establish itself as a global hub for business, research, and cultural exchange.

 

As Japan sets its sights on hosting more international conferences, welcoming digital nomads, and increasing the number of visitors for research, it opens up exciting opportunities for individuals and organizations to explore the rich tapestry of experiences that Japan has to offer. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, Japan promises a blend of tradition and innovation, creating a captivating destination for travelers from around the world.

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