Japan’s Tourism Goals in 2020

Starting out this new year, it is shaping to be a blockbuster for international tourism in Japan. Several years ago, the government set the goal of 40 million visitors annually starting from 2020 and things are looking like they are on track to hit this target. Following from the success of the rugby world cup last year, and the seven consecutive years of positive tourist number growth, the real challenge will begin after the Olympic games is finished in avoiding the post-event slump so often seen in host cities. However, with tourist visas now easier to get and more international airlines flying here, combined with all the work being done to prepare for the Olympics we are all confident that the target can be reached. There is a part we can all play, whether we are working in the airline industry or just helping to make Japan more tourist friendly – so take this as a chance to study and practice!