JITTI USA Staff Members Senior Representative/ Senior Research Fellow Kazuya Fukuhara Expertise: Aviation, Tourism After graduating from Keio University's Faculty of Business and Commerce, he joined the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and then engaged in planning systems and policies related to aviation, building standards, expressways, tourism, maritime security, etc. Furthermore, he also belongs to the policy and international divisions at the Ministry, and is involved in government-wide policy planning, response to economic security legislation, and overseas infrastructure development. In 2015, he received a Master of Public Policy degree from the University of Chicago's Harris School of Public Policy. Senior Research Fellow Hiroyuki Yamagami Expertise: Shipping Policy He joined Keio University's Faculty of Law in March 1998 and began his career at Chugoku Bank. His long-term career started in October 1999 at the Japanese Shipowners' Association (JSA), where he progressed through various roles, including a posting at the European Regional Office in London (2013). He advanced in the Planning Department before taking on a leadership role in environmental affairs in July 2025. Research Fellow Shinichiro Tsuri Expertise: Aviation (Type certification of aircraft, type/specification approval of components, personnel licensing, flight standards, etc.) Since joining the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, he has focused on technical safety administration at the Civil Aviation Bureau, and also worked at the Road Transport Bureau as well as studied abroad at a Graduate School of Public Policy in the United States. At JITTI USA, he is engaged in research in the field of aviation technology. Research Fellow Expertise: Tourism Haruhiko Koyama After graduating from the College of Urban Liberal Arts at Tokyo Metropolitan University, he worked at Alpine Tour Services before joining the Japan Tourism Agency in 2021. There he served as Chief Official in the International Tourism Department, Chief Official in Human Resource Development , and worked in the Tourism Industry Division. Research Fellow Expertise: Surface Transportation/ Urban Development Naoki Sato Upon graduating from Rikkyo University Faculty of Law, he joined and has held various positions at Tokyo Metro, including within the Railway Headquarters' Railway Management Department, General Affairs Department, and Corporate Planning Headquarters' Public Offering Office. He was also seconded to the Metro Life Support Co., Ltd before returning to Tokyo Metro in the Financial Affairs Department. Research Fellow Expertise: Coast Guard, Maritime Security Yuta Arai Since joining the Japan Coast Guard, he has alternated between working at sea and on land. His duties have entailed serving on large patrol vessels and boats by engaging in frontline operations involved in territorial waters, sea rescue, maritime crime control, and maritime traffic, as well as working in international cooperation, education and training, and public relations at federal and regional coast guard headquarters. Research Fellow Expertise: Airports, Aviation, Tourism Yukiko Nakamura Since joining Narita International Airport Corporation, Ltd. she has been involved in the operation and management of passenger terminal buildings and planning and development of airport user applications. She has also been engaged in airport fee policies, including landing fees, and the businesses of LCC usage promotion, bidding of overseas airport operations, group management, and more. Research Fellow Expertise: Maritime, Economic Security Yosuke Yamashita After earning his degree from Waseda University's School of Political Science and Economics, he entered the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. His tenure involved contributing to key government initiatives across sectors like social infrastructure development, housing and real estate, PPP/PFI, international affairs, ocean shipping, and economic security policy. In addition to his work at JITTI USA, he also serves a a Visiting Scholar at the Edwin O. Reischauer Center for East Asian Studies. Director of Communications and Operations Mamiko Kim Prior to joining JITTI USA, Mamiko worked in Ehime Prefecture on the JET Program, where she passed the JLPT N2. At JITTI USA, her work has entailed office administration and accounting, and now has greater focus on event logistics, authoring official communications, translation work, etc. Mamiko has a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies from Smith College and a Masters in Education from the College of William and Mary. Office Manager Tomomi Dodd Tomomi Dodd graduated from an American university and has been working for international companies. Dodd joined JITTI as an administrative assistant in October 2018. Administrative Assistant Suzannah Nevas After graduating from Wellesley College with a degree in East Asian Studies, Suzannah spent two years in Hyogo Prefecture on the JET Program. She subsequently returned to the U.S. and gained work experience in the fields of education, accounting and office administration. She has been a member of the JITTI staff since 2021.

Eno conducted an analysis of the international market for air travel for JITTI USA. This multi-part series details some of the most interesting facts and findings, and is instructive for thinking about how international air service has evolved over the past few decades. < Back Civil Aviation Trends in International Travel Part 2: Foreign Policy By Paul Lewis Eno conducted an analysis of the international market for air travel for JITTI USA. This multi-part series details some of the most interesting facts and findings, and is instructive for thinking about how international air service has evolved over the past few decades. Download the Report

JITTI Journal March 2022 Back to All JITTI Journals March 2022 Feature Article Initiatives to Relieve Congestion in Japan's Rail Industry by Akito Okabe Introduction  While railroads play an important role as a mode of transportation in Japan, urban rail congestion has long been a serious social problem. It may be surprising to learn that the average congestion rate for major Tokyo-area railroad sections in FY 2019 was 163%, with the most congested section reaching 199% 1) . The congestion rate is an index of congestion calculated by dividing the number of people transported by the transportation capacity 2) . As a guide of congestion rate Image Source: Association of Japanese Private Railways Although congestion rates have recently declined temporarily due to the pandemic, it continues to be an important issue against a backdrop of increased hygiene awareness and new ways of working through teleworking. For a long time, Japan has been trying to relieve congestion rates by shortening operating intervals, adding more tracks, and other large-scale construction projects. In recent years, Japan has also been focusing on new initiatives such as a "Train crowd measurement system" that utilizes digital technology. This article introduces some of the advanced efforts in the Japanese railroad to relieve congestion. Train Crowd Measurement System In the Tokyo area, the provision of congestion information on official apps and websites of railroad operators has been in full swing since around 2015. This article introduces Tokyo Metro's real-time ‘train crowd measurement system’ for each train car. Tokyo Metro has been distributing real-time congestion information for each train car on the 'Tokyo Metro my!' app since July 2021. According to Tokyo Metro, by distributing real-time congestion information for each train car, the system enables "safe and comfortable use" tailored to individual customers' needs, such as "which train car is relatively empty?" and "which station will be least crowded to board a train?" In addition, this service has been used by many customers, reaching approximately 50,000 times in the month and a half since its distribution began in July. It is very difficult to calculate congestion in real time, but by utilizing the ‘train crowd measurement system’ that uses a 'depth camera' to acquire depth information on in-train congestion, it is now possible to distribute real-time congestion and congestion forecast information regardless of car type, according to the company. The above figure is reprinted and translated from the Tokyo Metro Co.,Ltd. website. Off-Peak Point Service A service that rewards customers with points as an incentive for off-peak commuting is another initiative that Japanese railroad operators are focusing on to relieve congestion. JR East, Japan's largest railroad company, has launched a point service on weekday mornings as an initiative to support staggered commuting by SUICA 3) commuter pass holders. If you enter a station in the target area during a time period eligible for point redemption and then exit at a station in the target area, points are redeemed. Image Source: JR East An illustration of this is shown in the image above. For example, if the peak period is from 7:00 to 7:30 a.m., passengers can earn 15 reward points if they ride from 6:00 to 7:00 a.m. during the "early bird period" before the peak period. If they ride between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. after the peak period, they will earn 20 reward points. The rewards can be recharged to IC cards and used as train tickets, or used for shopping at JR-operated commercial facilities. Currently, the program is being offered for a limited time from March 15, 2021 to March 31, 2022. Conclusion As in Japan, people in the U.S. are becoming more hygiene-conscious, and providing information on train congestion is a topic of great interest. In addition, since staggering morning and evening peak hours can also help railroad companies reduce the number of train cars and staffing required during peak hours, contributing to cost savings, we believe that efforts to promote off-peak use can be a useful reference for the U.S. railroad industry. Currently, the Japanese and U.S. railroad industries are facing a difficult situation due to the pandemic, but it is important to promote new approaches flexibly in accordance with changes in people's needs. References: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism website https://www.mlit.go.jp/report/press/tetsudo04_hh_000095.html Japan Private Railway Association website https://www.mintetsu.or.jp/knowledge/term/16370.html JR East's IC card can be used for trains, buses, shopping, etc. Image Sources: Association of Japanese Private Railways Tokyo Metro Co.,Ltd. JR East

Activities of Chinese Government Ships around the Senkaku Islands and the Japan Coast Guard's Response < Back

JITTI Journal Cultural Article May 2025 Back to All JITTI Journals May 2025 Cultural Article Hotaru Matsuri by Suzannah Nevas Japan has an amazing cultural knack for taking something natural and simple and elevating it to something so beautiful, it’s just shy of pure magic. I find this to be true of many traditional culinary dishes that use hardly any components to highlight the pure flavor of just a few ingredients, but it can also be seen in countless seasonal celebrations of nature, like the subtle illumination of maple leaves at night in the fall, or the moon viewing described in classical Japanese literature. Another example of this is the humble firefly (hotaru). It’s been over a decade since I attended a Hotaru Matsuri, or Japanese Firefly Festival, but even now, the sparkling impression lingers in my memory. Fireflies In Japan The intriguing and magical presence of fireflies can be found throughout history in Japanese art and literature. The Fireflies (Hotaru), Illustration to Chapter 25 of the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari) ( From Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Bequest of the Hofer Collection of the Arts of Asia ) While there are hundreds of different species of fireflies, there are primarily three types that reside in Japan: the Hime, Genji and Heike. Their lifecycles and mating seasons are slightly staggered, which means that their luminescent glow can typically be seen as early as late May to as late as mid-July– though if you go all the way to the Okinawa or Hokkaido- this range can be stretched even further! What Is A Firefly Festival? What is a Firefly Festival? It’s pretty much exactly as it sounds. From early June through late July, temples, shrines and parks across Japan open their grounds to the public at sunset and invite you to celebrate nature’s splendor: fireflies. Each location will be different, but often present are the typical Japanese festival stalls selling street food, toys and treats. These will be located towards the front, near admission so that the noise and lights don’t detract from the main event- observing and enjoying the bioluminescence of hundreds of fireflies! That’s it- pretty simple, right? While on its face, it is nothing more than a quiet, leisurely walk at dusk, I promise, you will feel magic- like perhaps you’ve been transported into the world of a Miyazaki film. Where Can You Enjoy A Hotaru Matsuri? Hotarui Matsuri- like the hotaru itself- can be found throughout Japan. Because fireflies like trees and water, typical festival locations are parks, temples and shrines that have a large water source. However, this is not an example of the urban/rural divide: Hotaru Matsuri can be found in both the small-town countryside and in large city parks. The festival I attended was pretty small and rural at Uicho Shrine in Tamba (central Hyogo Prefecture), but if your travels are only taking you to big cities, there is the Fussa Firefly Festival right in Tokyo, or a day trip to the Terasaka Rice Terraces in Yokoze, in Saitama. Other recommendations include Okawa Onsen Takegasawa Park in Shizuoka Prefecture and Tetsuno Hotarudoyo Park in Nagano Prefecture. But truly, just about every prefecture in Japan has something, so you have no excuse not to check it out! Resources: https://rove.me/to/japan/firefly-festivals-hotaru-matsuri https://www.hyogobcc.org/post/fireflies-flourishing-in-hyogo https://en.japantravel.com/shizuoka/firefly-viewing-at-okawa-onsen-takegasawa-park/69842 https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/ev036/index.html

An Introduction of Japanese Tourism Initiatives During the Pandemic An Introduction of Japanese Tourism Initiatives During the Pandemic by Mamiko Kim 1. Introduction Have you ever been on a “staycation?” If you have, you join 53% of Americans who say that they’ve holidayed at home. (1) Combining the words “stay” and “vacation,” staycation was added to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary in 2009 after wide usage following a period of economic downturn.( 2 ) With scrimped funds and rising gas prices, Americans discovered that traveling close by, or even acting as a tourist in their own towns, could provide a much needed respite while still being economically smart. Staycations are again seeing a boom this year in the United States during the coronavirus pandemic, with the Travelocity 2020 Holiday Outlook Survey finding that 2/3 of travelers are planning on vacationing within 250 miles of their homes this holiday season (roughly the distance of Washington, DC to Virginia Beach). (3) Taking into account that 60% of respondents revealed that they will not be visiting family, we can conclude that people are eager to travel for their own sakes, and that there is a market for domestic tourism. Meanwhile, Japan has ramped up their efforts to entice people to travel domestically. Even before the start of the pandemic, “workations,” an extension of teleworking where employees could travel while making time during the day to complete work tasks, had begun gaining traction. Microsoft Japan and Japan Airlines Co. both started workation programs, and in 2017 Wakayama Prefecture began advertising to their Tokyo neighbors that they were a good spot for such an activity. That same year, the Japanese government instituted “Telework Day” on June 24th in preparation for congestion during the Olympics, and 2018 saw the passing of the Workstyle Reform Act, limiting working hours and encouraging a better work-life balance.( 4, 5, 6 ) Thus, in light of this background, it comes as no surprise that Japan has advanced arguably one of the world’s strongest responses to the issue of wavering tourism and consumer spending during the global pandemic. Consider below the following examples of Japan’s efforts to court domestic tourists. Staycations have allowed for people to feel like they are on a vacation, even when they are in their own homes. 2. The Japanese Government “Go to Travel” Campaign (7) Aligned with global trends, the Japanese tourism industry has suffered under the pandemic, including from the effects of most international travelers being barred from entering the country since March. In an attempt to assist the tourism sector, the Japanese government began advancing their “Go To Travel” Campaign to encourage domestic tourism. The campaign is a stipend based program, with 35% of the total cost of travel and accommodations covered by the program, and 15% of the total cost available in coupons for other expenses at the travel destination, such as restaurant and gift shop purchases. By taking advantage of this program, domestic travelers can save up to 50% of their total trip costs. There are some stipulations to this program. Firstly, while Japanese and non-Japanese travelers both have access to the program, they must currently reside in Japan. Additionally, daytrips and overnight trips have differing discount limits. (8) For daytrips, per person, travelers may receive up to 7,000 yen (about $70) in discounts, and 3,000 yen ($30) in coupons. For overnight trips, per person per day, travelers may receive up to a 13,000 yen ($130) discount, and 7,000 ($70) yen in coupons. However, discounts and coupons are limited to trips lasting 7 days or less. Furthermore, if booking travel and accommodations separately, only accommodations will receive the discount, so package deals are best to take full advantage of the program. Finally, arrangements must be made through a campaign registered travel agency or directly through an accommodation booking website. (9) Despite these restrictions, there are many signs that the “Go To Travel” Campaign has reached its aim to entice people to travel. According to the Japan Tourism Agency, between July 22nd (start date) and October 31st, 39.76 million guests/night took advantage of the campaign, using 208.7 billion yen in subsidies. Since Tokyo’s inclusion as a travel destination at the beginning of October to November 9th, 20.1 billion yen in subsidies were used in regional coupons. (10) Furthermore, the Japanese government required participating accommodations and facilities in the Campaign to take measures against the spread of the coronavirus, which may have reassured travelers and regional tourism destinations alike. With the image of safe, cheap, and accessible travel options, Japan’s domestic tourism has seen an uptick. Even with $700 in accommodation and travel fees, travelers can expect to save up to 50% through the "Go To Travel" Campaign's discounts and coupons. 3. Workation Promotions The word, “workation,” made headlines in Japan when it was used in a government tourism meeting earlier this year by then-Chief Cabinet Secretary (now Prime Minister) Yoshihide Suga as a way to bolster the tourism sector. Since then, many creative workation promotions have appeared. (11) Thanks in part to the financial support of the Japanese Environmental Ministry, several national parks have begun offering workation packages. (12) Run by the National Park Resorts of Japan, the manager of Kyukamura hotels, the workation promotions are geared towards day trippers who may wish to take a break from their telework routines at home. Participants can work in the morning and enjoy the afternoon taking advantage of the outdoor activities and scenery at the park. Each national park is set up with their own desired specifications, including upgraded Wi-Fi access points, workstations entailing of either hotel guest rooms within/nearby the park or on-grounds tents set up with portable power stations and Wi-Fi hotspot devices, and food plans. Originally introduced on a trial basis from April-July, it came back by popular demand in September. In fact, Environmental Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, seen as a rising-star in Japanese politics, even participated in the program when he video-conferenced into an internal meeting from Bandai-Asahi National Park in early September. Other participating national parks include: Japan’s largest national park, Setonaikai, spanning the Setonaikai Inland Sea and known for its fishing villages; Aso-Kuju known for its volcanoes, including Mt. Aso, the largest active one in Japan; and Nikko, considered one of the most beautiful parks in Japan with its Buddhist temples and Shinto Shrines in a wooded mountainside. For those who rather crave heart-thumping excitement, there is now an “Amusement Workation” at- Yomiuriland, a Japanese Amusement park in the Tokyo suburbs. (13) Tickets into the park cost 1,900 yen per person ($18) or 3,600 yen ($34) per pair, and offer a pool-side booth with Wi-Fi, power-supply, a table, two chairs, two sun lounge chairs, and a free drink at the adjacent La Pacine Restaurant. A scenic (and certainly unique) workstation set-up is also included for ticket-holders, who have access to work in the Ferris wheel for one hour with a pocket Wi-Fi. After work is done, teleworkers may amuse themselves on the many rides and enjoyments found in the park itself, have free towel rental at the neighboring Okanoyu onsen (with its 15 different baths), and for an additional 500 yen, have access to the on-site golf course with 20 swings and golf club rental included. While these workation programs are just two examples currently taking place in Japan, there are a plethora of new and enticing workation campaigns that continue to emerge. Prefectures themselves have begun promoting their cities as great workation destinations, including those with refreshing onsen (Mie Prefecture), serene sights along the foothills of Mt. Fuji (Yamanashi Prefecture), and seaside ambiance and local delicacies (Kanagawa). ( 14 , 15 ) With the interest of both businesses and government in workation programs, it will be interesting to see how the increase of workation programs will affect the mindset of some Japanese companies’ work cultures. 52% of 1,000 responders to a 2020 Japanese Trade Union Confederation survey indicated that they are working more now while teleworking during the pandemic than even before.( 16 ) The fact that workation programs are designed to give more flexibility to workers and their employers may have some impact, with even one governmental employee in the meeting with Environment Minister Koizumi remarking that “It is important to trust employees rather than worrying about whether they are really working.” Whether their existence shifts mindsets or not, it would appear that workations will be around for much longer, particularly as they continue to be in high demand during this pandemic year. Workation programs allow for quick transitions from work to recreation. 4. Staycation Promotions Along with tourism initiatives through the “Go To Travel” and workation campaigns, staycation programs from both the tourism sector and federal government have been introduced with even more ways for people to feel the excitement of travel during these unusual times. From the tourism sector, Tokyo luxury hotels in particular have spearheaded this movement, especially as Tokyo was excluded from the “Go To Travel” destination list until October. These hotels, in addition to their already renowned accommodations, fitness centers, and restaurants, offer themed activities in their staycation packages for guests to experience. The “Edo Beauty Stay” package from Hoshinoya Tokyo Hotel, for example, pampers guests with a spa treatment, but also transports them back to the Edo Period (1603- 1868) by offering a traditional tea ceremony, shamisen lessons, and origami paper folding. ( 17 ) The Peninsula, Tokyo hotel offers their “We Meet Again- The Eight Loves of the Peninsula” staycation package, which includes all in-house amenities and check-out gift bags, and also allows guest to choose an activity of their preference from a list of featured Tokyo “loves”, including dim sum cooking classes, a tour of the Imperial Palace Gardens, exclusive VIP access to art collections, and more. ( 18 ) Each hotels’ packages are designed specifically for just one night’s rest, perfect for the local staycationer to experience the joys of travel while being close to home. On the other hand, for individuals who truly miss traveling abroad, All Nippon Airways (ANA) came up with one solution by offering an exclusive “Hawaiian” experience on their “Riding Honu” aircraft. (19) In August, this airplane, painted to look like a giant sea turtle, offered a unique 90 minute ride departing from and landing at Narita Airport in Tokyo. Donning Hawaiian-themed shirts, staff members served passengers pineapple drinks and mojitos, screened videos, conducted a raffle, and handed out souvenirs. Taking precautions against Covid, the aircraft capacity was limited to 64%, but some 150 times that number applied to take the trip. This experience was a win-win for passengers and the airline alike, as not only did guests get to have the feeling of a tropical vacation, but the airline was also able to conduct maintenance on the aircraft. Meanwhile, the Japanese government has also recently expanded their “Go To Travel” campaign by announcing “Go To Eat,” “Go To Event,” and “Go To Shotengai” initiatives (Shotengai is the Japanese word for a covered street market). The “Go To Eat” campaign was launched from the first of October, and will be advanced in November/December for Tokyo, and like the “Go To Travel” campaign, has a voucher system. (20) Diners can receive a 25% off voucher at participating restaurants in a given area. There is also a point system that diners can apply to use at these restaurants, with more discounts received based on returns to an establishment. Currently, some 33 prefectures are participating in this initiative. The “Go To Event” campaign was launched on October 30th, and also provides options for either a voucher for 20% off of the ticket or a coupon for purchasable items at the venue at the value of 20% of the ticket fee. (21) At this time, only Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is participating in this program. “Go To Shotengai” is still in the works, and has yet to launch. As these initiatives are still new, there is still little data in regards to their usage, but if the “Go To Travel” campaign is any indication, these programs hold much promise in attracting travelers and local residents alike. Tokyo luxury hotel staycation packages attempt to attract locals who may wish to have a different experience nearby where they live. 5. Conclusion Through the various public and private initiatives and campaigns, Japan has succeeded in increasing domestic travel. According to information from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, and Tourism, and as assembled below in Figure 1, domestic travelers staying at tourist accommodations increased to 52% of 2019 figures in September. (22) In comparison, May had the year’s lowest figures at roughly 15% year-on-year of guests staying in hotels and other lodgings. Data from the MLIT of Japan, Graph by Shuntaro Okimoto (JITTI USA) These statistics are even more striking if comparing domestic and international travel. Figure 2 shows the volume that travel agencies have seen in transactions for domestic and international travel, as well as the number from international tourists. As one may notice, international travel and guests have remained almost nonexistent, while domestic tourism has increased after having reached similar lows. With the international travel ban still in place, the rebounding of domestic tourists has surely been a welcome to a distressed tourism industry. There is hope, however, that things will make a recovery soon, as it was announced last month that foreign tourists may be allowed back into the country again on a trial basis from April 2021.23 In the meantime, the national government and tourism-related businesses will surely continue their efforts to attract those close by to participate in their “Go To Travel” campaign*, workation promotions, and staycation programs. (*Since the writing of this article, the Japanese government has suspended the "Go To Travel" Campaign in areas where the coronavirus is spreading.) Data from the MLIT of Japan, Graph by Shuntaro Okimoto (JITTI USA) References: Ballard, J. (2018, July 31). Majority of Americans have taken a "staycation". Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://today.yougov.com/topics/travel/articles-reports/2018/07/31/majority-americans-have-taken-staycation Merriam Webster. Staycation. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/staycation-date-meaning Travelocity, P. (2020, October 08). Travelocity 2020 Holiday Travel Outlook: Most Families Aren't Going Home this Holiday, but they Aren't Staying Home Either. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/travelocity-2020-holiday-travel-outlook-most-families-arent-going-home-this-holiday-but-they-arent-staying-home-either-301148116.html?tc=eml_cleartime Mainichi Shimbun. New 'workation' system promotes spending more time with family members. (2018, August 05). Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20180804/p2a/00m/0na/030000c Reuters. (2017, July 24). Japan launches 'telework' campaign to ease congestion, reform work culture. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-japan-economy-telework/japan-launches-telework-campaign-to-ease-congestion-reform-work-culture-idUSKBN1A90ET Phillips, F. (2020, January 7). Japan's Workstyle Reform Act – What Is the Compliance Deadline for Your Organization? Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/japan-s-workstyle-reform-act-what-is-91110/ MLIT. (2020). Go To トラベル事業とは. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://goto.jata-net.or.jp/about/ Japan Guide. (2020, November 17). 'Go To Travel' explained. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.japan-guide.com/news/0053.html Dayman, L. (2020, July 13). Japan's "Go To Travel" Campaign: What You Need to Know. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.tokyoweekender.com/2020/07/japans-go-to-travel-campaign-what-you-need-to-know/ 観光庁, J. (2020, November 13). Go To トラベル事業における利用実績等について: 2020年: 報道発表: 報道・会見: 観光庁. Retrieved November 19, 2020, from https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/news06_000484.html Osaki, T. (2020, July 30). Good time for a 'workation' but is Japan Inc. ready? Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/07/30/business/workation-japan/ Kyodo News. (2020, September 19). Japan national park facilities upgraded with "workation" in mind. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/09/ab57da1d46e5-japan-national-park-facilities-upgraded-with-workation-in-mind.html Nagase, Y. (2020, November 18). Tokyo's Yomiuriland now lets you work from a Ferris wheel and by the pool – wifi included. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/news/yomiuriland-amusement-parks-workcation-deal-lets-you-work-from-a-ferris-wheel-or-by-the-pool-101920 Inkl. (2020). Japan's 'workation' programs gain popularity amid pandemic. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.inkl.com/glance/news/japan-s-workation-programs-gain-popularity-amid-pandemic?section=coronavirus K, B. (2020, October 21). 'Workation' program at the foothills of Mount Fuji offers fresh air and a welcome change of pace. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://japantoday.com/category/features/lifestyle/workation-program-at-the-foothills-of-mount-fuji-offers-fresh-air-and-a-welcome-change-of-pace KYODO News. (2020, June 24). Half of telecommuters in Japan work longer than before pandemic. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/06/882ace2907a2-half-of-telecommuters-in-japan-work-longer-than-before-pandemic.html HOSHINOYA, Tokyo. (2020). Edo Beauty Stay: Experience: HOSHINOYA Tokyo: Resort Hotel in Tokyo, Japan - Hotel Reservation. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://hoshinoya.com/tokyo/en/experience/edo-beauty-stay/ The Peninsula Tokyo. (2020). The Peninsula Tokyo: The Eight Loves of The Peninsula Tokyo. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://www.peninsula.com/en/tokyo/special-offers/rooms/8-loves-of-tokyo Begum, H. (2020, August 23). ANA Flies Its Airbus A380 Carrying Passengers To Nowhere. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://simpleflying.com/ana-a380-charter-lottery/ Finn, C. (2020, November 18). Japan's "Go To Eat" Campaign: What You Need to Know. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://tokyocheapo.com/food-and-drink/go-to-eat-campaign/ Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. (2020). 経済産業省 Go Toイベントキャンペーン. Retrieved November 24, 2020, from https://gotoevent.go.jp/ 観光庁. (2020). 旅行業者取扱額: 統計情報: 統計情報・白書: 観光庁. Retrieved November 19, 2020, from https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/siryou/toukei/toriatsukai.html  Back to All JITTI Journals November 2020 Feature Article

JITTI Journal NOTE: JITI USA changed it's name to the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA) in August 2019. As such, all published materials before then are named the JITI Journal 2022: January JITTI Journal feature on the outlook of the tourism, transportation, and economic sectors in Japan in 2022 cultural article on Nengajou, Japanese New Year's Cards March JITTI Journal feature on technology-based strategies to combat urban rail congestion in the Japanese railroad industry cultural article on Izakayas: Japanese-style bars May JITTI Journal feature on mandatory registration of unmanned aircraft in Japan cultural article on the origin of Okinawan taco rice July JITTI Journal feature on recent developments in the US-Japan Coast Guard partnership cultural article on what it's like to travel with an infant in Japan September JITTI Journal feature on the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, the first international exposition to be held in Japan in 20 years cultural article on Japan's unique vending machines November JITTI Journal feature on Japan's reopening of borders since the COVID pandemic (link) cultural article on JITTI staff, Suzannah Nevas' personal experience honeymooning in Japan with the border opening (link) 2021: January JITTI Journal feature on Japan's budget for FY2021 cultural article on Shodo, Japanese calligraphy that has been traditionally done on January 2nd March JITTI Journal feature on new Japanese legislation on sUAS flown beyond visual line of sight and over people cultural article on anime and manga May JITTI Journal feature on guidelines for creating manuals to assist foreign tourists during an emergency cultural article on native animals to Japan and where to find them July JITTI Journal feature on the Japanese Coast Guard's response to Chinese government ship activities around the Senkaku Islands cultural article on Shohei Ohtani trivia September JITTI Journal feature on public office booths set up in Japanese train stations as a service for teleworkers during the pandemic and beyond cultural article on Shogi November JITTI Journal feature on the Japanese government's 2022 fiscal budget to bolster the tourism industry and to encourage the travel of international visitors cultural article on native dinosaurs to Japan 2020: January JITTI Journal feature on Japan's policy on unmanned aircraft systems cultural article on Osechi, or traditional foods eaten to celebrate the new year March JITTI Journal feature on cruise trends in Japan cultural article on the Japanese tradition of Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing May JITTI Journal feature on the effects of the novel coronavirus on the shipping sector cultural article on little known facts of the Japanese music industry July JITTI Journal feature on Mobility as a Service in Japan cultural article on the sounds that remind Japanese people of summer September JITTI Journal feature on the impacts of COVID-19 on Japanese transportation industries cultural article on the Hakata Dontaku Festival November JITTI Journal feature on the domestic tourism initiatives started during the pandemic cultural article on traveling to Shuzenji through the "Go To Travel" Campaign 2019: January JITI Journal feature on Capacity Enhancement of Narita International Airport cultural article on Hatsu-moude, or the tradition of visiting shrines in the new year March JITI Journal feature on Tokyo Metro's initiatives to enhance foreign traveler experiences cultural article on Osaka's winning World Expo bid for 2025, and the expected changes that will occur to prepare for the event May JITI Journal feature on the Japan Coast Guard as they create new international frameworks with coast guards of the world cultural article on Shichi-Go-San, a Japanese coming-of-age celebration for children turning seven, five, and three July JITI Journal feature on our Revenue Opportunities through Value Capture Session which we co-hosted with APTA during their 2019 Rail Conference cultural article on Koshien, a high school baseball tournament which has become a summer classic in Japan September JITTI Journal feature on high speed rail in the United States, and analysis of issues preventing it from becoming more prevalent cultural article on Hakata Gion Yamakasa, a local festival and pant-less affair November JITTI Journal feature on Haneda Airport slots, and their effects on civil aviation in the Asia Pacific Region cultural article on Miyakojima, a resort island in Okinawa 2018: January JITI Journal feature on Capacity Building Support by the Japan Coast Guard to Developing Countries - Mobile Cooperation Team short article on Niihama March JITI Journal feature on the railways in Japan during rush hour short article on manners for shoes in Japan May JITI Journal feature on improving and strengthening the transport safety management system short article on Miyajima July JITI Journal feature on airport concession policy in Japan short article on awaodori September JITI Journal feature on strengthening aviation safety through SSP short article on Takarazuka Revue November JITI Journal feature on measures taken against falling objects from airplanes short article on facial hair in Japan 2017: January JITI Journal Feature on urban rail transit in Japan short article on the Kintaikyo Bridg March JITI Journal feature on package delivery service in Japan short article on "suna-mushi" in Ibusuki May JITI Journal feature on ICAO and the CORSIA Scheme agreement short article on outings with babies and toddlers in Japan July JITI Journal feature on becoming a pilot in Japan short article on Art Island September JITI Journal feature on license plates in Japan short article on Kawagoe castle November JITI Journal feature on public restroom facilities in Japan short article on Sakai 2016: January JITI Journal feature on the inauguration of the Hokkaido Shinkansen's partial operation status short article on Kamata Ryokan March JITI Journal feature on airport privatization and the concession style of airport management short article on the temples of Kyoto May JITI Journal feature on an overview of the Japan-US Agreement for opening Haneda's daytime services short article on Shinjuku Suehirotei July JITI Journal feature on drones and how we can move toward safe operation of unmanned aircraft short article on Kumamoto September JITI Journal feature on ways for airports to minimize the disruption caused by natural disasters short article on Kamakura November JITI Journal feature on capacity building support by the Japan Coast Guard in developing countries short article on Yamazaki Pre-2016 JITTI USA was incorporated in 2008, and took over the research activities held by Institution for Transport Policy Studies (ITPS)/ JITI Washington DC office.

The Elizabeth line is an underground railway line operating east to west through London and its surrounding areas. It connects stations in the western part of London, such as Reading Station and Heathrow Airport terminals, with Abbey Wood Station or Shenfield Station in the east. Originally consisting of only the Great Western Main Line and the Great Eastern Main Line, a new section was constructed in central London to directly connect these lines as part of the “Crossrail” project. After the opening of this new section, the line was renamed the “Elizabeth line” as a collective name. This report details the findings from an inspection of the line that the author conducted. < Back Surface Transportation August 2025 Inspection Report on the London Underground Elizabeth Line By Haruhiko Koyama The Elizabeth line is an underground railway line operating east to west through London and its surrounding areas. It connects stations in the western part of London, such as Reading Station and Heathrow Airport terminals, with Abbey Wood Station or Shenfield Station in the east. Originally consisting of only the Great Western Main Line and the Great Eastern Main Line, a new section was constructed in central London to directly connect these lines as part of the “Crossrail” project. After the opening of this new section, the line was renamed the “Elizabeth line” as a collective name. This report details the findings from an inspection of the line that the author conducted. Download the Report

Rail Analyst, Daisuke Miyamoto, delves into the differences of applications of value capture between Japan and the US, and the stances of various US voices on how it should be implemented. < Back Surface Transportation Plan for redistributing profits from development in the USA (value capture) By Daisuke Miyamoto Rail Analyst, Daisuke Miyamoto, delves into the differences of applications of value capture between Japan and the US, and the stances of various US voices on how it should be implemented. Download the Report

JITTI USA is an independent research organization which studies various US-Japan and international transport and tourism issues, and disseminates the latest knowledge to the public. Our scope covers all modes of transport, tourism, and common topics of interests to both the U.S. and Japan. About JITTI USA JITTI USA's mission is to conduct comprehensive research of contemporary transport and tourism issues and make recommendations regarding United States and international transport and tourism policies. JITTI USA was incorporated in 2008 as an independent, nonprofit research organization. JITTI USA was established by the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI). JTTRI's original name was the Japan Transport Economic Research Center in 1968, and was renamed the Institute for Transport Policy Studies in 1998, the Japan Transport Research Institute in 2016, and most recently the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute in 2018. Organizational Information History 1968 The Japan Transport Economic Research Center (JTERC) was founded by the initiatives of the Ministry of Transport and the Japanese business community 1991 JTERC established an office in Washington, DC to strengthen U.S. and global information gathering, and named it the Japan International Transport Institute, USA (JITI) 1998 JTERC expanded its research and policy advisory capability, and it was renamed the Institute for Transport Policy Studies (ITPS) 2008 JITI was incorporated on August 22nd in Washington, DC as an independent, nonprofit research organization under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code 2016 The name of ITPS was revised to the Japan Transport Research Institute (JTRI) 2018 In order to show that tourism was included in its activities, the name of JTRI was amended to the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI) 2019 In order to show that tourism was included in its activities, the name of JITI was amended to the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA) For further information about JTTRI, please refer to the JTTRI tab under "About JITTI USA" above. Thank you. Donation Information JITTI USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization. All donations to our organization are tax-deductible within the limits of the law and will be used to fund our research initiatives and public education seminars. If you kindly wish to donate to JITTI USA's ongoing efforts, please contact us or you can click the Donate button below to make a secure PayPal donation. A copy of our 501(c)(3) approval letter is available here . Donate Nippon Foundation: The activities of our Institute are made possible through the generous assistance of the Nippon Foundation.

Japan's Policy on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Japan's Policy on Unmanned Aircraft Systems by Shinichi Yamada 1. INTRODUCTION  Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), such as drones, are used in various fields including aerial photography, pesticide dispersion, and inspection of infrastructure, and they are expected to be utilized even more in the future. On the other hand, concern about operational safety has been rising. This article introduces efforts and policies that have been implemented to ensure the safe operation of UAS in Japan. 2. CURRENT REGULATION The Civil Aeronautics Law (CAL) defines “UAS” as any airplane, rotorcraft, glider or airship which cannot accommodate any person on board and can be remotely or automatically piloted (excluding those lighter than 200 grams (about 0.44 pounds). The weight of a UAS includes that of its battery.). It requires any person who intends to operate a UAŞ in the following airspaces to obtain permission from the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan to ensure the safety of manned aircraft and persons and/or properties on the surface of the ground or water. Airspace that is over 150 meters (about 490 feet) above the surface of ground or water. Airspace around airports. (Specifically, airspaces above the approach, horizontal, transitional, extended approach, conical, and outer horizontal surfaces) Airspace above Densely Inhabited Districts (DID) defined and published by the Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications. (Those areas where population density is larger than 4,000 people per square kilometer (about 10,360 people per square mile) are defined as DID in general.) The use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in various fields has grown, including in agriculture and pesticide distribution. It also requires all of the UAS operators to follow the operational conditions listed below, unless approved by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan. Operation of UAS are to be in the daytime. Operation of UAS must only be conducted within Visual Lines of Sight (VLOS). 30 meters (about 98 feet) of operational distance between UA and persons and properties on the surface of the ground or water must be maintained. Do not operate UAS over event sites where many people gather. Do not transport hazardous materials such as explosives by UAS. Do not drop any objects from UAS  In addition to the CAL, legislation has also been put in place to prevent dangerous UAS from approaching important facilities in the country by air. An aerial photo by UAS of this concert would not be permissible in Japan, as they are not allowed to be flown at night or over places where people gather. 3. POLICY FOR THE EXPANDED OPERATION OF UAS The Japanese government has created a roadmap and made efforts to expand the use of UAS in public-private partnerships. According to the roadmap, the goal is to operate UAS beyond VLOS in uninhabited areas, such as remote islands and mountainous areas, by FY 2022, and later to operate UAS beyond VLOS in DID. There are various issues to consider to bring about such flights. Therefore, the following four working groups have been established, and many stakeholders, including government, industry, and academia, are involved. WG1: UAS/Owner Registration WG2: Ensuring UAS Safety WG3: Skill Assurances of Remote Pilots and Flight Dispatchers WG4: UAS Traffic Management System (UTMS) As part of these efforts, an amendment of CAL will be submitted to the regular Diet in 2020 that requires the registration of UAS in FY 2021. Under the new system, information such as the names of owners, users, aircrafts, phone numbers, etc. must be registered online. When registration is completed, UAS IDs can be acquired, and the UAS ID has to be marked on the UAS itself. Any unregistered flight will be fined. The policy for UAS requires that regulatory studies by the government and technology development by manufacturers and academic institutions be carried out simultaneously. While looking to US and European UAS systems as models, it is expected that regulations will be expanded to enable further use of UAS in Japan. Back to All JITTI Journals January 2020 Feature Article

JITTI Journal January 2025 Back to All JITTI Journals January 2025 Feature Article Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan by Shinichiro Tsuri Background 2025 is a year with a big event, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, which will be held for 184 days from April 13th to October 13th, 2025 in Yumeshima, Osaka. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), which is the next-generation of air mobility expected to operate in the near future, is one of the hot topics of the expo, as a part of the Smart Mobility Expo in the Future Society Showcase Project Exhibition. Currently, four AAM operators are planning to conduct demonstration flights around the expo site in Yumeshima, and between two ports inside and outside the expo site. Although the plans of these operations are still in flux, in this article, I will introduce an overview of the planned AAM operations at the upcoming expo as of December 2024, when this article was drafted. Planned Ports Image Source: Information added to a map compiled by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan Expected Operators ANA HD / Joby Aviation All Nippon Airways Holdings (a holding company of All Nippon Airways) and Joby Aviation (a U.S. electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer) are planning to operate Joby Aviation’s S4. This model is classified as a “vectored thrust” type, which has fixed wings and uses the same thrust mechanism for vertical takeoff/landing and cruising by changing the orientation of the thrust mechanism. Major specifications of the S4 are as follows: Seating capacity: 5 (1 pilot and 4 passengers) Maximum cruise speed: 322km/h They plan to operate the S4 at the EXPO Vertiport based around the bay area in Yumeshima. Joby Aviation’s S4 (Courtesy of Joby Aviation. (c) Joby Aero, Inc.) Image Source: Website of Joby Aviation (Media Kit) Soracle Soracle Corporation, which is a joint venture of Sumitomo Corporation and Japan Airlines, is planning to operate Midnight from Archer Aviation (a U.S. eVTOL aircraft developer). This model is also a “vectored thrust” type eVTOL aircraft like Joby Aviation’s S4 above. Major specifications of Midnight are as follows: Seating capacity: 5 (1 pilot and 4 passengers) Payload: 454kg Range: 161km (normally 32 ~ 80 km operation is expected) Maximum cruise speed: 241km/h They plan to operate Midnight between the EXPO Vertiport and the Osaka Heliport. Archer Aviation’s Midnight at Public Exhibition Photo Source: Shinichiro Tsuri Marubeni Marubeni Corporation is planning to operate the VX4 from Vertical Aerospace, which is a UK eVTOL aircraft developer (and also HEXA from LIFT Aircraft, which is a U.S. eVTOL aircraft developer). This model is also a “vectored thrust” type eVTOL aircraft like the two aforementioned models. Major specifications of the VX4 are as follows: Seating capacity: 5 (1 pilot and 4 passengers) Range: 161km Maximum cruise speed: 241km/h They plan to operate the VX4 between the EXPO Vertiport and Amagasaki Phoenix. Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 ((c) Vertical Aerospace Ltd.) Image Source: Website of Vertical Aerospace (Media Kit) SkyDrive SkyDrive (a Japanese eVTOL aircraft developer) is planning to operate its SKYDRIVE. This model is classified as a “multi-rotor” type, which does not have fixed wings and uses a thrust mechanism consisting of three or more rotors for vertical take-off and landing. Major specifications of SKYDRIVE are as follows: Seating capacity: 3 (1 pilot and 2 passengers) Maximum takeoff weight: 1,400kg Range: Approx. 15km Maximum cruise speed: 100km/h They plan to operate SKYDRIVE between the EXPO Vertiport and Osaka Port, Central Jetty. SkyDrive’s SKYDRIVE ((c) SkyDrive Inc.) Image Source: Website of SkyDrive Conclusion While the AAMs mentioned above are still under development and in the process of type certification, the expected operators are advancing their efforts to carry out demonstration flights at the expo. I hope that the actualization of these flights will provide a significant opportunity to enhance the social acceptance of AAM, as well as yield best practices and lessons learned that can be shared internationally regarding AAM operations. References Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, Smart Mobility Expo, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/future-index/smart-mobility/advanced-air-mobility/ Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, Status of each company's consideration of AAM at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan https://www.expo2025.or.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/20240926-1-siryou1.pdf Joby Aviation https://www.jobyaviation.com/ Archer Aviation https://archer.com/ Vertical Aerospace https://vertical-aerospace.com/ SkyDrive https://skydrive2020.com/