Japan’s thriving tourism industry is facing a double whammy: the lingering fear of a major earthquake and the recent disruption caused by Typhoon Maria. Following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Kyushu on August 8th, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a megaquake alert, raising concerns about a potential massive earthquake along the Nankai Trough, a 900-kilometer offshore fault line. This alert, coupled with the fear of a repeat of the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami, has led to a wave of cancellations and travel disruptions. Hotels are reporting a surge in cancellations, especially in areas near the coast, and events, particularly those scheduled near the sea, are being postponed or canceled altogether.
The impact of the megaquake warning is particularly evident in Miyazaki Prefecture, where the tourism industry in Nichinan, famous for its beaches and Edo Period townscape, has been hit hard. Road closures are hindering access to tourist sites, and visitor numbers are significantly lower than usual. The situation in Kochi Prefecture is similar, with many hot springs and traditional inns seeing a sharp drop in reservations.
Adding to these concerns, Typhoon Maria struck Japan on Monday, causing widespread disruptions to transportation networks, particularly in the northeastern regions. This resulted in flight cancellations by major airlines like Japan Airlines and Qantas, severely impacting air, rail, and road services, and causing inconvenience for both local and international travelers.
Despite these challenges, Japan’s tourism sector remains resilient. The country recorded record-breaking visitor numbers in March 2024, with 3.08 million international visitors, an 11.7% increase from March 2019. This influx was driven by Japan’s visa-free entry policy for 71 countries, which has made the country more accessible to international travelers. Leisure and business travel have surged, and Japan has become a popular destination for international meetings and events.
Financially, 2023 was a landmark year for Japan’s tourism sector, with international tourism expenditure reaching approximately 5.31 trillion Japanese yen, marking a full recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and setting a new record. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) expects the sector’s contribution to Japan’s economy to reach nearly ¥44.6 trillion in 2024, highlighting the vital role of travel and tourism in supporting Japan’s workforce and boosting national employment.
Japan’s government is actively promoting sustainable tourism through initiatives such as encouraging visits to lesser-known destinations, fostering local collaboration, and adopting innovative strategies to reduce congestion. The tourism sector is expected to continue its strong growth trajectory in the coming years, with projections indicating a significant contribution to Japan’s economy and employment.
Despite the current challenges, Japan remains committed to welcoming visitors from around the world, and the tourism industry is determined to overcome these obstacles and continue its growth trajectory. The country’s resilience, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, will undoubtedly continue to draw visitors from around the globe, making Japan a sought-after destination for years to come.
