An Update on Travel to Japan

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) recently provided a new update on the status of travel to Japan following the earthquake that took place on March 11, 2011, including thanking the travel industry for its support in the recovery efforts. The JNTO said that it would undertake a variety of promotional and information efforts to sustain the recovery.


“After the earthquake, our country has come together, working rapidly in the affected areas towards a quick recovery," Tadatoshi Mamiya, president of the JNTO said. "With the strenuous efforts of various personnel, we have made good progress towards the reconstruction of our transportation infrastructure. Sendai Airport, which was struck by the earthquake, was opened again on April 13, and the entire Tohoku Shinkansen network (the high speed rail network that serves locations in East Japan) was restored on April 29. Additionally, Tokyo Disneyland reopened on April 28, and other tourist attractions and facilities are back to providing the same level of service and enjoyment that they always have."


Key action plans include hosting large-scale observation tours for overseas industry and media partners, so that they can see the progress Japan has made and discover how safe Japan is, the JNTO said.

“We expect to host 1,000 guests from different parts of the world starting in May until July," Mamiya continued. "We believe that by vigorously promoting the 'vibrant and appealing side of Japan,' it will not only leave an impression on people from overseas, but it will also become a source of support to the people and areas who have been affected by the disaster. The next step will involve promoting Japan tour offerings so that travelers will know about them.


“Outside of the areas affected by the disaster, residents are living their lives as usual, and the beauty of these tourist destinations remains unchanged. Food is also inspected and controlled by strict guidelines so they can be consumed safely. For the travelers who have visited Japan, they have been satisfied with their experience, they have said that they are glad that they visited Japan, and they are certain that they would like to come again.”

Visit www.jnto.go.jp/eng.