観光立国推進基本法1/Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Law1

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1. Legal Classification of the Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Law in Japan

• Legal Classification: This is an administrative law central to Japan’s tourism policy, promoting both domestic and international tourism as a vital part of national development.

• Historical Context:
  Enacted in 2006, the Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Law was a major revision of the 1963 Tourism Basic Act, positioning tourism as a central pillar of Japan's growth strategy in the 21st century. The law reflects a response to demographic challenges, including population decline and an aging society, and aims to use tourism to revitalize regional economies.

• Implementation and Impact:
  The New Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Plan (2023-2025) emphasizes sustainability, regional revitalization, and increasing tourism consumption. The government has set ambitious goals for inbound tourism recovery, aiming to exceed pre-pandemic visitor numbers by 2025, while promoting long-term stays in less-visited regions.

2. Global Comparison of Tourism Laws

Japan’s Tourism Law vs. Other Countries

• Japan:

  • Focuses on sustainable tourism and boosting regional economies, with plans to increase spending by international visitors and promote longer stays in regional areas.

• France:
  Similar to Japan, France’s Tourism Development Law emphasizes heritage protection and eco-tourism. France’s approach, however, places more weight on the preservation of its historical monuments and cultural assets.

• Australia:
  Australia’s Tourism 2020 Strategy aligns with Japan's sustainable tourism goals but places stronger emphasis on indigenous culture and natural environment preservation.

Global Trends in Tourism Law

• Sustainability:
  Global trends indicate an increasing focus on sustainable tourism across multiple nations. Japan, along with countries like New Zealand and Norway, has made sustainability a central theme, particularly in rural revitalization and minimizing environmental impacts.

• Quality Over Quantity:
  A key trend in Japan's strategy, echoed globally, is the shift from sheer numbers of tourists to focusing on higher-spending visitors and encouraging longer, more immersive stays.

3. How Many Countries Have Similar Tourism Laws?

Several countries have enacted tourism laws that share similar goals with Japan’s Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Law, especially in sustainable tourism and regional promotion:

4. Types of Tourism Laws Across Countries

Civil Law vs. Common Law Approaches

• Japan:
  A civil law country, Japan's tourism framework is centrally coordinated by the government, focusing on nationwide strategies for tourism growth and sustainability.

• United States:
  In contrast, the United States adopts a more decentralized approach, with individual states crafting their own tourism laws, under broader federal guidelines.

Public-Private Cooperation in Tourism

• Japan:
  Japan relies on public-private partnerships to develop infrastructure and tourism destinations. This collaboration extends to projects like Ozu Castle Stay, where the historical site has been repurposed into high-end tourist accommodations.

• Germany:
  Similar to Japan, Germany’s tourism policies emphasize sustainability and public-private cooperation for regional tourism development.

5. Differences Between Japan and Other Countries’ Tourism Laws

Enforcement and Government Involvement

• Japan:
  The Japan Tourism Agency leads efforts to implement tourism policies, including sustainability and promoting cultural tourism through region-specific programs.

• United Kingdom:
  The UK follows a more decentralized approach, with regional tourism boards playing a larger role in policy implementation.

Societal and Cultural Influences

• Japan’s tourism law highlights the preservation of traditional culture, much like Thailand’s emphasis on eco-tourism influenced by its tropical geography.

6. Global Trends in Tourism Laws and Future Challenges

• Post-Pandemic Recovery:
  Japan, along with many other nations, has focused on domestic tourism as a way to recover from the pandemic’s impact. It also plans to increase international tourism while addressing concerns about over-tourism.

• Digitalization:
  The integration of digital technologies in tourism is an emerging global trend. Japan, like many other countries, is advancing the use of smart tourism solutions, including digital visas and smart city development.

• Sustainability:
  With increasing awareness of climate change, Japan’s emphasis on sustainable tourism aligns with broader global movements seen in Scandinavian countries such as Norway and Sweden.

7. Advice for Foreigners Navigating Japan’s Tourism Laws

• Respect Regional Initiatives:
  Japan’s law encourages regional tourism, promoting lesser-known destinations. Foreign visitors should explore rural areas for authentic experiences and to avoid overcrowding in popular spots.

• Cultural Sensitivity:
  Respect for local traditions is vital. Japan’s tourism strategy emphasizes the preservation of its cultural heritage, so understanding local customs is essential.

• Participate in Sustainable Practices:
  Tourists should adopt eco-friendly behavior, especially when visiting protected sites or natural reserves.

Conclusion

Japan’s Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Law and its updated Basic Plan for 2023-2025 reflect the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism and regional revitalization. In line with global trends, Japan's focus on quality, sustainable growth, and cultural preservation positions it as a leading destination for mindful, responsible tourism.

References

1. Japan Tourism Agency: Detailed explanation of the Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Law and Japan's tourism strategies for sustainable growth and regional development. Japan Tourism Agency​(

   1. MLIT

2. New Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Plan: Updated in 2023, focusing on promoting sustainable tourism, recovering inbound tourism, and enhancing regional appeal. Japan Tourism Agency​(

   1. MLIT

3. Japan News: Insights into the shift toward sustainable tourism as part of Japan’s post-pandemic recovery, with focus on regional initiatives. The Japan News​(

   1. Kyushu Wood Stores

4. Travel and Tour World: Reporting on Japan’s optimistic tourism outlook for 2024, including sustainability strategies and plans for international tourism recovery. Travel and Tour World​(

   1. Travel And Tour World