InsideJapan News Network

Mount Takaosan, already established as a top Japanese tourist attraction, is set to see visitor numbers given an even bigger boost after it received a three-star Michelin rating.

A recent survey by the ministry of land, infrastructure, transport and tourism, there were around 700 foreign visitors among the crowds of up to 8,000 spectators at the annual Hiwatarisai fire-walking festival which took place in March.

The Asahi Shimbun newspaper reports that visitor figures reached 1.1 million in 2007, up from 960,000 the previous year.

As a result, many businesses such as train operators and restaurants have introduced multilingual services and websites to cater for international customers.

Located within the metropolitan Tokyo area, visitors to Mount Takaosan can take in the stunning scenery, enjoy a fascinating visit to a temple or put on their walking boots and go for a hike in the foothills.

Japan-Guide.com notes that the mountain has been considered a sacred site for over 1,000 years.



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