InsideJapan RT Policy

Economic Impact

Spreading the money around

Poverty may not be a word that you immediately associate with Japan, but while it is one of the richest countries in the world, and the vast majority of people have a comfortable standard of living, things are not the same for everyone across the country.

Rural Areas

Rural areas in Japan have been suffering from depopulation for a number of years, as youngsters leave for the bright lights of the cities and large agricultural corporations squeeze out small local farmers and their livelihoods. Some rural areas are turning to tourism as an alternative source of income and by spending some of your time and money outside of the major cities you will be supporting those who have suffered from the negative effects of depopulation.

Local businesses

Despite the dominance of huge corporate conglomerate companies there are still a huge number of local, family-run businesses in Japan. Your accommodation may well already be arranged for you, but where you spend your money at mealtimes can make a difference. Walking into a mysterious local restaurant where you may become the centre of attention may not be for everyone, but if you are prepared to give it a go you will almost always be rewarded with endless kindness, enthusiasm, and perhaps even a free cup of sake from the salaryman in the corner! Picture menus and plastic food displays make ordering a doddle; remember that it is hard to find a bad meal in Japan and foreigners being ripped off is almost unheard of, so relax and give it a go!