Latest News
Monday, 3rd September 2012
In Japan Travel News,
Japan steps up efforts to further expand tourism industry
Already, Japan is a major tourism destination, with natural highlights such as Mount Fuji as well as dynamic cities, including Tokyo and Kyoto, drawing in millions of visitors each year.
However, not wanting to rest on its laurels, the national government has outlined plans to invest hundreds of millions of yen in Japan's remotest islands in a bid to rejuvenate them economically through the introduction of tourism.
According to the Japan Times, it is hoped that the state subsidies will begin at the start of the next financial year, marking a shift from previous efforts to support the nation's smallest islands through public works.
Additionally, it is anticipated that the new wave of funding will last for ten years - time enough for the islands to place themselves firmly on the tourist map.
At the same time, the Environment Ministry is in the process of setting up a panel of national experts tasked with studying the best means of protecting the country's World Heritage Sites.
Among the sites that are due to be assessed are the likes of Yakushima Island, off the southern coast of Kyushu, the Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains and the Ogasawara Islands, with officials particularly keen to find a way to carry on welcoming large numbers of tourists without causing any lasting damage to Japan's natural heritage.
Meanwhile, highlighting the ongoing popularity of Japan among Europe's business travellers, the Telegraph has published a new 'etiquette guide' for visitors to the south-east Asian country.
According to the light-hearted guide, visiting businessmen should ensure they receive their hosts' business cards in both hands, should always dress smart and remain calm even when a deal is slipping away, and should always accept invitations to a restaurant, bar or even a karaoke club.
Posted by Graham McPherson