ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
Opinion

Japan is wasting its big chance with group-tour requirement

Even with cheap yen, few willing to put up with extra travel hassles

| Japan
An unusually deserted street in Kyoto in April 2021: Many have rejoiced to see their towns and temples cleared of noisy and chaotic tourists.   © Getty Images

Alex Kerr is the author of "Another Kyoto," "Finding the Heart Sutra" and "Another Bangkok: Reflections on the City."

Millions of Japanophiles across the globe who have been waiting to return to the archipelago have greeted Tokyo's halting steps to reopen to tourism in recent months with joy. But barely any have actually come.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Discover the all new Nikkei Asia app

  • Take your reading anywhere with offline reading functions
  • Never miss a story with breaking news alerts
  • Customize your reading experience

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more