Japan faces a paradox in tourism: while major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto suffer from over tourism, many regions are experiencing under tourism, leading to abandoned attractions and a declining economy. This blog explores the causes and implications of this phenomenon, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach to tourism across the country.
Japan is often discussed in the context of over tourism, particularly in its major cities. However, the reality is that much of the country is experiencing under tourism, leading to a stark contrast between bustling urban centers and desolate rural areas. This blog post delves into the phenomenon of under tourism in Japan, examining its causes, consequences, and potential solutions.
While cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are overwhelmed with tourists, many once-thriving tourist destinations have become ghost towns. For instance, Kinugawa Onsen, located just north of Tokyo in Tochigi Prefecture, was once a bustling resort attracting 3 million visitors annually. Today, it stands as a shadow of its former self, with decaying mega resorts and abandoned buildings littering the landscape. The Kinugawa Honen, closed since 1999, and the Hosinoya, which shut down in 2010, are just two examples of the many structures left to deteriorate.
The sight of abandoned hotels and homes is unsettling. Many buildings remain untouched, with furniture and personal belongings left behind, creating an eerie atmosphere reminiscent of an apocalyptic scenario. The high cost of demolition and waste disposal in Japan often leads owners to abandon properties rather than face the financial burden of cleanup. Consequently, these sites have become dangerous and illegal to explore, yet curiosity drives many, leading to a phenomenon known as "haikomania"—the obsession with abandoned buildings.
To understand the decline of these tourist areas, we must look back at Japan's economic history. The 1990s marked the bursting of the economic bubble, leading to what is often referred to as the "lost decade." Companies that once funded employee retreats to resorts like Kinugawa Onsen could no longer afford such luxuries. As a result, many hotels and businesses closed, leaving behind a trail of abandoned properties.
The cycle of abandonment continues as fewer tourists visit these areas, leading to even more closures. The lack of visitors discourages new investments, perpetuating the decline. With an estimated 9 million abandoned homes and buildings across Japan, the issue is becoming increasingly visible, even in urban areas like Tokyo.
Japan is facing a significant demographic challenge, with a declining population expected to exacerbate the issue of abandoned properties. As families move away from these areas, the cycle of under tourism will likely worsen. The contrast between the overcrowded tourist hotspots and the neglected regions raises questions about the sustainability of Japan's tourism model.
The question arises: who is responsible for this imbalance? Is it the Japanese government, which has not adequately addressed the needs of rural tourism? Or is it the tourists themselves, who flock to the same well-known destinations? To create a more balanced tourism landscape, it is essential for both the government and tourists to take action.
To revitalize Japan's tourism, there needs to be a concerted effort to promote lesser-known regions. Tourists, especially international visitors, should be encouraged to explore beyond the major cities. By spreading out and discovering the hidden gems of Japan, travelers can help alleviate the pressure on overrun areas while breathing new life into abandoned sites.
Japan's tourism landscape is at a crossroads. While major cities face the challenges of over tourism, many beautiful and culturally rich areas are left to decay. By addressing the issues of under tourism and promoting a more equitable distribution of visitors, Japan can preserve its heritage and ensure a sustainable future for its tourism industry. The time has come for both the government and tourists to take responsibility and explore the diverse offerings of this remarkable country.
