Japan is experiencing a significant increase in international tourism, particularly in notable cities like Kyoto, where the influx of foreign visitors to famous sites has surged between 2023 and 2024. Popular attractions such as the Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine saw visitor rates rise by at least 24%, with specific sites noting increases as high as 46%. In contrast, the number of Japanese visitors to these locations has dropped significantly.
A study by the Kyoto City Government revealed that while foreign tourist numbers skyrocketed, Japanese attendance at these landmarks decreased, with some attractions experiencing declines of over 40%. Interestingly, although many Japanese tourists are avoiding crowded, famous sites, there has been an uptick in visits to suburban areas with fewer renowned attractions.
The reasons behind these trends include pent-up travel demand following the pandemic and the weakness of the yen, which makes Japan more attractive to foreign visitors. However, rising consumer prices and hotel costs, which have increased due to high demand, are making travel less appealing for locals. The contrasting travel patterns suggest a widening gap between domestic and international tourism in Japan, raising questions about the sustainability of this trend.
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