Japan expands regional tourism through new booking platforms and guide training

Japan is implementing new initiatives to boost regional tourism and support the growing influx of international travelers.

JALPAK has launched ‘Activities JALPAK’, an online reservation platform designed for inbound tourists. The service aims to promote regional revitalization by offering unique local experiences that are often difficult to find through traditional digital searches. Available programs include JAL factory tours, sumo stable morning practice observations, traditional craft workshops, and tea ceremonies in historic townhouses.

In Hyogo Prefecture, a new training program is being launched to develop high-value inbound guides. Organized by the Hyogo Tourism Organization and the prefecture, the initiative seeks to train guides capable of providing immersive experiences in local history, culture, and industry. This follows a significant increase in foreign overnight stays in the region, which is expected to continue with upcoming international flight expansions and major sporting events.