Many Japanese See Economic Benefits from Rise in Foreign Visitors

Tokyo, Oct. 1 (Jiji Press)--A Japanese government opinion poll showed Thursday that 65.4 pct of respondents, the largest group, think an increase in foreign visitors will help reinvigorate the overall economy of the country. This was followed by 50.0 pct, who cited benefits to regional economies, and 46.3 pct, who said mutual understanding between Japanese and foreigners will deepen, according to the Cabinet Office survey, which was intended to collect data to help realize the government's goal of making Japan a tourism-oriented nation. Survey participants were asked about positive impacts from an increase in the number of visitors from abroad, with multiple answers allowed. On the question about negative impacts, 42.0 pct, the largest, said there are no particular problems. Meanwhile, 29.5 pct said they are worried about security, 25.5 pct said there were problems due to differences in culture and lifestyle, and 20.0 pct pointed to difficulties communicating with foreigners. An official of the Cabinet Office said many Japanese people do not have adverse feelings toward foreigners at a time when the number of visitors from abroad is increasing rapidly. On measures to further increase foreign visitors, 51.7 pct said more information should be provided in more foreign languages at airports and train stations, followed by 45.8 pct, who cited the need to enhance campaigns to promote Japan's attractions overseas, and 36.3 pct, who said the number of foreigner-friendly accommodation facilities should be increased. The survey was conducted on 3,000 adults in an interview format between Aug. 20 and 30, with 58.6 pct giving valid answers. END