Foreign news agencies report from Tokyo. Japan on 22 February that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan published that Currently, around 21.6 million people hold a passport, which has not expired. Accounting for approximately 17.5% or 1 in 6 of the current population
The said statistics are considered reduced. Compared to the period before the large epidemic Which at that time The proportion of the passport that has not expired about 25% of the Japanese people is about 25%.
Compared to the statistics of neighboring countries such as South Korea, it is found that around 60% of South Koreans There is a passport that has not expired. Reference according to information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs South Korea As for the statistics of American passports, 50% increased by only about 5% in 1990.
JTB Company Which is the largest tourism operator in Japan. It is expected that this year there will be approximately 14.1 million Japanese people traveling abroad.
While the passport of Japan and South Korea Ranked second together In terms of being “Person Passport” which can be used to travel to 190 countries and territory Without having to apply for a visa Singapore is number one. According to the ranking of the Henley Passport Index.
Image credit: AFP
How might a decline in the number of Japanese citizens holding valid passports affect the country’s tourism industry?
The ebb and Flow of Japanese Passport Holders: An interview with Passport Research Expert Dr. Tampo Yashire
Considering recent data from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Archyde had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Tampo Yashire, a leading passport and travel trends research expert from the Japan Institute of Travel and Tourism. Dr. Yashire shared her insights on the evolution of Japanese passport holders and the factors driving these changes.
archyde: Dr.Yashire, recent statistics show a decrease in the proportion of Japanese citizens holding a valid passport, dropping to 17.5% from a pre-pandemic high of 25%. How do you interpret this shift?
Dr. Yashire: This decline can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly deterred travel for many. Secondly, the weakening yen has made international travel more expensive. Moreover, I believe there’s a growing appreciation among Japanese citizens for the enriching experiences available domestically, a trend I like to call ‘staycation rediscovery.’
Archyde: Indeed,the ‘staycation rediscovery’ phenomenon seems to be gaining traction worldwide,not just in Japan. How does this trend impact domestic tourism in japan?
Dr. Yashire: It positively impacts domestic tourism, as seen in the increased spending on local travel and tourism-related activities. However, it’s a complex situation; while domestic tourism booms, international travel lags. balancing these trends is key for a sustainable tourism industry.
Archyde: Comparing data with neighboring countries like South Korea and the US, it’s clear that Japan lags in passport holder percentages. What do you think accounts for this disparity?
Dr. Yashire: there could be several reasons. Cultural factors may play a role, with some societies encouraging more global exposure then others. Economic circumstances, such as exchange rates, also impact travel affordability. Additionally, marketing and industry promotions may influence travel demand.
Archyde: Given this data and your expertise, what strategies might help boost Japanese citizen travel, both domestically and internationally?
Dr. Yashire: I believe targeted marketing campaigns, accessible travel financing options, and innovative tourism packages could help.Furthermore, governments could play a notable role by simplifying visa processes, enhancing air connectivity, and promoting safe and attractive destinations.
Archyde: The Henley Passport Index ranks Japan’s passport as one of the most globally accessible, alongside Singapore’s. How might this ‘passport power’ influence travel trends?
Dr. Yashire: A powerful passport certainly facilitates travel, but it’s not the only factor. Ease of travel is one of many considerations. Cost, safety, cultural appeal, and convenience also weigh heavily on travel decisions. That said, the passport index serves as a useful benchmark for countries to improve their visa policies and international relations.
Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Yashire, for your enlightening insights. Your expertise has undoubtedly provided our readers with valuable perspectives on the Japanese travel landscape.
Dr. Yashire: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.
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