The town located beside a scenic volcanic lake in Japan has plans to place QR codes on a barrier in order to introduce visitors to other tourist attractions in the area, including alternative spots to take photos of Mount Fuji. The decision to implement this initiative was made in response to the decline in popularity of a specific spot in front of a convenience store that was previously a popular choice for photos. An official hinted that if the spot continues to be less popular, the town may remove the screen.
Japan has been experiencing a significant increase in the number of overseas tourists, with monthly visitors exceeding three million for the first time in both March and April. This influx of tourists has led to challenges similar to those faced by other popular tourist destinations. For example, Venice recently implemented a trial of entry fees for day visitors due to overcrowding and other issues. In Japan’s ancient capital of Kyoto, there have been complaints from locals about tourists harassing the city’s famous geisha.
In an effort to mitigate congestion and preserve the environment, hikers using the most popular route to climb Mount Fuji this summer will be required to pay a fee of 2,000 yen (approximately US$13) each, as well as an optional 1,000 yen donation. Additionally, entries will be capped at 4,000 hikers. These measures are intended to ease congestion on the trails and ensure a more sustainable approach to tourism in the area. The town’s decision to introduce QR codes on a barrier to highlight other tourist attractions reflects a similar goal of spreading out tourist traffic and promoting lesser-known areas.
Overall, Japan’s growing popularity as a tourist destination has brought both opportunities and challenges for local communities. While increased tourism can stimulate the economy and promote cultural exchange, it also poses issues such as overcrowding, environmental impact, and disruption to local communities. By implementing measures such as entry fees and limits on visitor numbers, as well as initiatives to promote alternative tourist attractions, Japan is taking steps to address these challenges and create a more sustainable tourism industry.
In conclusion, the town’s plan to introduce QR codes on a barrier to showcase other tourist attractions in the area, in response to the decline in popularity of a specific spot, is just one example of how Japan is adapting to the changes brought about by the increase in tourism. By balancing the benefits of tourism with the need to protect local communities and the environment, Japan is working towards a more sustainable future for its tourism industry. Through initiatives such as entry fees for popular attractions and promoting lesser-known spots, Japan is seeking to manage the impact of tourism while still welcoming visitors from around the world.
