Transforming Japan's Rural Areas Into Tourist Destinations

This special report examines the challenges faced by Thai tourists when traveling to Japan, particularly focusing on the low visitation rates to rural areas, which are below 5%. It identifies key pain points such as limited information about these regions, confusion regarding Japan's regional divisions, and language barriers that hinder travel experiences. The report outlines the necessity for a one-stop digital platform designed to provide essential pre-trip information and emergency support during travel. This platform aims to enhance traveler confidence and safety by offering real-time updates, detailed insights into local attractions, and personalized content based on user preferences. The findings are supported by research and a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) workshop, which validated the identified challenges and proposed solutions. The report concludes that embracing digital tourism solutions is vital for improving the travel experience for Thai tourists and encouraging exploration of lesser-known regions in Japan.