Tourism Rebound Takes TollーNhk World-Japan News

Embracing the New Normal

Once upon a time, what we considered "normal" seemed like a distant dream, forever on the elusive horizon. Hope for a brighter future would trickle in, only to be tricked away by the relentless pandemic. But behold, times are changing! In Japan, tourists now pound the pavement once again, their masks optional, and COVID-19 officially reclassified as a low-level infectious disease, akin to the seasonal flu.

Health authorities have made the bold move of demoting the coronavirus from its position as the second-highest tier of concern. This decision was made weeks ago but officially took effect on Monday. Now, they can no longer legally enforce isolation measures, and efforts to prevent infection are largely optional. The health ministry merely recommends that infected individuals stay home for five days after developing symptoms – note the emphasis on "recommended."

The Rebirth of Tourism

As the pandemic recedes into the background, Japan has reopened its borders to inbound travelers of all vaccine statuses. This has led to a booming tourism industry, with one unexpected star emerging from the world of anime. Allow me to take you on a journey to the coastal city of Kamakura, just a short distance from Tokyo. Here, a seemingly ordinary railway crossing has become a pilgrimage site for many foreign tourists, simply because it was depicted in the beloved basketball manga, Slam Dunk, as well as its animated adaptation.

Slam Dunk, first published over 30 years ago, has captured the hearts of countless people, particularly in Asia. During my visit, I encountered individuals from Hong Kong, South Korea, and Mainland China – all like pilgrims, drawn to this sacred spot that Slam Dunk fans hold dear. It seems that anyone with an interest in Japanese culture and anime simply has to visit, for such is the enduring appeal of this beloved series.

Anime Fandom and its Global Impact

Of course, no visit to such a vibrant location would be complete without a touch of cosplay. I was thrilled to see enthusiasts from all corners of the world, eager to immerse themselves in the world of Slam Dunk. One visitor, brimming with excitement, shared that this was their first trip to Japan, solely motivated by their love for the iconic series. Their enthusiasm spread to their father, who accompanied them on this adventure.

Slam Dunk was an absolute sensation when it aired on TV in the 1990s, and its popularity has endured through the years. In fact, it recently made a triumphant return as a blockbuster movie in South Korea, surpassing all other Japanese anime releases in terms of cinema attendance. Meanwhile, in China, advanced ticket sales reached an astonishing $16 million, setting a new record.

I, too, have secured tickets for the grand premiere. I eagerly await the opportunity to watch Slam Dunk with my partner, reminiscing about our youth and the fervor we once had. It is clear that this timeless story resonates across generations and borders, bringing people closer through shared nostalgia and passion.

Striking a Balance

While tourists revel in their newfound freedom, we must not forget the impact on the local community. The railway crossing, situated in a quiet residential area, has witnessed an influx of eager visitors. The trains themselves have become jam-packed, causing inconvenience for the locals. In response, the local government has introduced a resident's pass, allowing them to board without enduring long waits.

One resident expressed relief, stating that they often had to resort to walking due to the crowded trains. The pass has alleviated their struggles, proving to be a much-needed solution. However, it is crucial to strike a delicate balance between the surge in tourism and the well-being of the local community. Japan's tourism industry is not yet operating at full capacity, waiting for the green light from Chinese authorities to allow group travel. It is our hope that the industry can find innovative ways to thrive without causing chaos or undue inconvenience to the locals.

As the world slowly adjusts to the realities of a post-pandemic era, Japan's tourism scene serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both travelers and industry professionals alike. Navigating the changing tides, we must embrace the new normal with open arms, fostering a harmonious coexistence where tourism flourishes, and local communities thrive. Let us look ahead to a future where the buzz of excitement and positive energy resonates throughout the world, driving us to explore, connect, and create unforgettable memories.