Back to All JITTI Journals January 2018 Feature Article Capacity Building Support by the Japan Coast Guard to Developing Countries Mobile Cooperation Team by Ryoki Toku Prologue Sea routes in the Southeast Asian area can be said to be the life lines of Japan. The security and safety of the area is extremely important for Japanese ships as they pass through. Each coastal country's maritime law enforcements are required to have the appropriate capabilities to be able to secure the area. It is also important there are the good relationships and cooperation between the maritime law enforcements of these coastal countries and Japan. Inauguration of JCG Mobile Cooperation Team In October of 2017, the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) established a brand-new unit in the JCG Headquarters called the "Mobile Cooperation Team (MCT)", which focuses on capacity building support for developing country's maritime law enforcements. The MCT consists of 7 people. There are 6 members, under the direction of the seventh member who is the Director for Coast Guard International Cooperation. They engage in training for foreign maritime law enforcement and their goal is to create effective, consistent, and sustainable capacity building support, as well as build trusting relationships with other countries through consultations about country needs in advance, and provision of detailed curriculums following the outcomes of these discussions. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/topics/171002_mct_start.pdf , (Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） The first mission of MCT One month from the inauguration of the MCT, they were dispatched to the Philippines for their first mission: to train the Philippine Coast Guard. The MCT engaged in exercises regarding the maneuvering of high speed small boats. Thee high speed small boats that were used in the exercises were transferred from the Japan government to the Philippine government. The MCT members instructed in several maneuvering skills that related to maritime law enforcement, such as guarding measures, like pinch maneuvering, as well as basic techniques like turning, chasing, or approaching the port. This exercise became an opportunity to teach JCG's maneuvering techniques to other nation's maritime law enforcements as well, given that coast guards from Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia also participated in the exercises. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/kouhou/h29/k20171122/k171122-1.pdf(Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） The opportunity for cooperation between the USCG and the JCG in the field of capacity building support The MCT's first mission was also an opportunity for cooperation between the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the JCG. During the same period, the USCG was also in the Philippines to train the coast guard. The USCG and the JCG coordinated on site, and the USCG then gave a lecture about the maintenance of small boat engines. As a result, in this case, we can say that the USCG and the JCG provided joint training for high speed small boats through their cooperation. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/kouhou/h29/k20171122/k171122-1.pdf(Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） Conclusion The JCG says that through these activities it would like to deepen its trust relationships with other national maritime law enforcements, and contribute to maintaining and developing open and stable oceans under the rules of law. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/kouhou/h29/k20171122/k171122-1.pdf(Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） The JCG has engaged in several capacity building efforts regarding maritime law enforcement, especially in Southeast Asian countries, not only recently through the activities of the MCT. It is hoped that these engagements help in establishing an international network in the field of maritime law enforcement amongst those who share the same values. In addition, these engagements promote regional cooperation that should help lead to an avoidance of risks in any unpreventable accidents in the future.

Back to All JITTI Journals March 2024 Feature Article Toward the Spread and Expansion of Sports Culture Tourism By Hirokazu Nishikawa While there are various forms of tourism around the world, there is a movement to promote and expand "sports culture tourism" in Japan as well. Sports culture tourism refers to the establishment and dissemination of new regional and Japanese brands by linking local sporting events with cultural and artistic resources, with the aim of increasing the number of foreign visitors to Japan, revitalizing domestic tourism, and revitalizing the Japanese and regional economies. The "Comprehensive Collaborative Agreement among the Japan Sports Agency, Agency for Cultural Affairs, and Japan Tourism Agency" was signed in March 2016 between the three government agencies listed, and they have been holding the "Sports Culture Tourism Awards" every year since then. The Sports Culture Tourism Awards publicly solicits, selects, and presents awards to initiatives and events that contribute to the promotion of sports culture tourism. For the 8th award, Sports Culture Tourism Award 2023, seven award-winning organizations were selected from among 29 initiatives and events that were submitted from August to September 2023 (announced in the press on January 11, 2024). In this issue, I would like to introduce the initiatives of these award-winning organizations. Main Awards (Applicant Organization) Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture “Sports Culture Tourism Centered on Imabari Castle, the Strongest Castle in Japan - The History of the Seto Inland Sea Central Region's Domination Leads to the Present Day” Outline of the Project The “Imabari Castle” in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, is the center of a series of events held in the Seto Inland Sea in Japanese fiscal year (※) 2022. The cultural event Takatora Summit in Imabari was held, and sports events such as Setouchi Shimanami Kaido Three-Day March, Imabari Criterium (a mass-start road-cycle race), Cycling Shimanami 2022, and Imabari City Marathon took place, attracting many people from Japan and abroad. In addition, Setouchi Minato Marché, a food and specialty event, was organized to encourage event visitors and tourists to stay in the city. (※) Japanese fiscal year runs from April to March (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The Marché event has done a good job of involving the local community through the use of citizen volunteers, etc. Each event is attractive, and cultural and natural resources such as Imabari Castle, Murakami Suigun, and the Shimanami Sea Route are utilized to hold cultural and sporting events that appeal to a wide range of people. Various efforts are being made to disseminate information overseas through PR on airline flights, production of TV dramas, and cooperation with bicycle manufacturers. (Applicant Organization) Echigo Matsudai Trail Running Executive Committee “[We plan to] revitalize old paths scattered throughout the satoyama (mountainous regions within village-vicinities) and to make them available as new regional resources! “Echigo Matsudai Spring Festival Trail Running Race" " Outline of the project A trail running event held in Matsudai, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. Old roads that are no longer used and in disrepair were re-excavated and prepared for the course, which included a course through a satoyama village. The event was created to allow participants to experience the original landscape of Japan. By linking the event with the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, it will have the unique feature of "combining art and trail running," and its objectives are to revitalize local communities, preserve the satoyama environment, and advocate climate change action for athletes. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The potential tourism resource of old roads in satoyama is well utilized. The project involves the local community and attracts inbound visitors. This is a very effective opportunity to highlight permanent artwork. (Applicant Organization) Annaka City Tourism Organization, General Incorporated Association “ A Railway’s Dead End, Dead No Longer: Revitalization efforts for the benefit of future generations ” Outline of Initiatives Since 2018, a walking tour has operated using an abandoned railway line in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, utilizing the Yokogawa-Karuizawa section of the Shinetsu Main Line (commonly known as the Usui Line), which was last operated in 1997. The event is an 11-km guided walk along the normally off-limits section of the line to experience its historical value and the difficulty of crossing the mountain pass. More than 90% of the participants are from outside of the prefecture, making this event a draw that will encourage other local travel and spending. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The use of a disused railroad line makes it feel special, and the fact that it has a solid historical background and a story to tell is highly valuable. The fact that the target audience is not only people who like traveling and hiking, but also people who like railroads and civil engineering structures is new. The fact that the majority of participants are from outside of the prefecture is also very tourism-oriented. By becoming a model case for the utilization of abandoned railway lines, of which there are likely to be many throughout Japan, it is hoped that other derivative models can be created. Special Awards *Two applicable cases ① (Applicant Organization) Nara City General Foundation, General Incorporated Foundation “Enjoy authentic Japanese archery for foreign tourists - Experience the spirit of the samurai in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan ” Outline of the Project This is a project to allow foreign tourists to experience authentic Japanese archery derived from the tradition of Bushido in Nara, the hometown of the samurai. They will learn the basics of Kyudo and how to behave under the gentle and strict one-on-one guidance of a high-ranked instructor, and finally shoot an arrow by themselves. The goal is to promote the image of "Budo" = "Nara" and "Budo" = "Nara's new brand" internationally, which will lead to budo tourism from overseas. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The value of this event will be enhanced for the local community with its history and background. The opportunity to experience authentic martial arts by wearing hakama in a real dojo is a good opportunity for visitors to understand the beauty and dignity of the Japanese people. It is a good opportunity for visitors to learn more about Nara by learning about cultural elements. ② (Applicant Organization) Fukushima Town Tourism Association “Fukushima Town, Hokkaido: "Sumo Tournament for Women Only" - the only town in Japan to have two yokozuna (sumo grand champions)” Outline of the Project The "Sumo Tournament for Women Only" has been held in Fukushima-cho, Hokkaido since 1991. It began as a project to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Kawasuso Shrine's founding and to dedicate the "women-only festival procession," and has been held every year on the second Sunday of May (Mother's Day), with the 29th held in 2023. By holding sumo, which is recognized as a national sport, as an event targeting women, they aim to broaden its base and provide a good opportunity for the children who support it to think about "women's activities" and "gender equality.” (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation This event is attended by people from overseas and outside the region. This event has been carried out for about 30 years, and it is highly valued as a part of the local sumo culture. The program has been carried out continuously with a cultural and historical background, while also taking into account the viewpoint of women's activities. (Applicant Organization) Tourism Promotion Bureau of Shimosuwa Town Regional Development Corporation, General Incorporated Association “National Historic Site and Japanese Heritage: The Jomon World of the Starry Central Highlands: Making the "Hoshigatou Obsidian Origin Site" a Tourism Resource” Outline of the Project The Hoshigatoh Obsidian Site in Shimosuwa Town, Nagano Prefecture, was recognized as a National Historic Site in 2015 and a Japan Heritage Site in 2018. The Hoshigatoh Ruins, which are normally off-limits to visitors, will be offered as a special tour with commentary by the discoverer/excavator. In addition, they are taking a multifaceted approach by collaborating with cultural resources and museum facilities scattered in the surrounding area. By actively utilizing cultural assets while properly managing them, the project aims to create a virtuous cycle of culture, tourism, and regional revitalization. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The content is a combination of Japanese heritage sites and surrounding culture, and the presence of a variety of guides adds value. The program is designed to involve local businesses, is also designed to encourage participants to become repeat visitors, and to create fans of the local community. The project is contributing to the expansion of recognition of Japanese heritage sites themselves. (Applicant Organization) Office of the Tan-Tetsu-ko Promotion Council “"Tan-Tetsu-Ko Meshi (Tan-Tetsu-ko Meal) Project," a culinary tour of a Japanese heritage site Outline of the Project The story of the coal and other industrial revolutions "Coal, Iron, and Port (Tan-tetsu-ko)" in Sorachi, Hokkaido, which supported Japan's growth and recovery from the Meiji era through the prewar, wartime, and postwar periods, has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site. This initiative named the food that took root in the lives of people who worked in coal mines, steel mills, ports, and railway-related facilities "Tan-tetsu-ko Meshi (Coal, Iron, and Port Meal)”, and in FY2021, commercialized the food at a major convenience store chain and installed panels at tourist information centers. In FY2022, they produced a guidebook listing the restaurants where Tan-tetsu-ko meshi was actually available and conducted an online stamp rally. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The program focuses on food that can be tasted in the region and makes full use of the Japanese heritage story. The collaboration with a major convenience store chain is interesting because of its novelty. The program is collaborating with a number of businesses in the region, and is working on a wide-area partnership within a 100-kilometer radius. These award-winning organizations were honored at a related event, the 7th Sports Culture Tourism Symposium, held in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo on February 2, 2024. The Japanese government is committed to regional revitalization, which aims to correct the concentration of people in Tokyo, halt the population decline in rural areas, and increase the vitality of Japan as a whole. I believe that the revitalization of these regions through tourism will have a significant effect as a first step toward this goal. 【References】 「スポーツ文化ツーリズムアワード 2023 」の受賞団体を発表します ～スポーツ文化ツーリズムの普及、拡大に向けて～ | 2024 年 | 報道発表 | 報道・会見 | 観光庁 ( mlit.go.jp )

Back to All JITTI Journals November 2022 Cultural Article Honeymooning in Japan: Worth the Wait! By Suzannah Nevas When my boyfriend and I got engaged on Christmas Eve, 2019, we had no idea a global pandemic was on the horizon. By April 2020, it became clear that COVID-19 was going to be around for the foreseeable future, and while we didn’t want to wait to be married, we were willing to wait for our dream honeymoon. We’d had our hearts set on Japan. We held fast for over two years, but as soon as the Japanese government announced they were lifting restrictions after October 11, we booked our tickets for the following week! At the airport about to board My husband and I were fortunate enough to be among the first wave of international tourists flooding to Japan in mid-October. With only two weeks to plan, our honeymoon itinerary almost fell into place as we compared our bucket lists of places, foods, and cultural experiences we were interested in. We arrived at Narita airport on Sunday, October 16th. Though our flight was nearly full, disembarking and going through customs was easy and efficient, thanks to great signage and many helpers stationed every 15 feet or so to help you through the process. We made it smoothly out of customs, exchanged some currency, rented a pocket WiFi device and we were on our way! Our Goals Our goal for the trip was to enjoy a balanced array of all that Japan has to offer: urban and rural, commercial and cultural, extravagant and affordable, familiar and new, planned and spontaneous. Our time was spent in 1-3 day stints in Tokyo, the Fuji 5 Lakes District, the Izu Peninsula, Kyoto, the Tajima area, Osaka, Wakayama Prefecture, and Gifu. Enjoying the view at Super Nintendo World Urban & Rural Highlights from our time in the big cities include visiting the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, the Manga Museum in Kyoto and Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. Many delightful hours were also spent exploring the plethora of underground shops and food malls around major train stations! Rural gems include the gorgeous cliffscape along the Jogasaki Coast, and the stunning natural beauty along the Kumano Kodo Trail in Wakayama Prefecture. One night we stayed in the town of Kawayu, where the scalding hot spring water bubbles up on the shores of the cold mountain river and you can dig your own hole in the bank and mix the two waters together to create an outdoor bath. (Note that it takes constant vigilance and movement to keep from burning or freezing yourself!) Living like royalty at Himeji Castle and Takeda Castle Ruins Commercial & Cultural As far as the Japanese government is concerned, I think we were the ideal tourists, spending money left and right, buying so many goods and souvenirs along the way that we ended up buying not one but TWO additional suitcases to bring everything back with us! A lot of this spending though was also cultural. During our stay in the onsen town of Kinosaki, we enjoyed meeting the local bamboo, straw art and leather artisans there and a sizable part of our return luggage was traditional Japanese art. In Kyoto we arrived in time for the massive monthly flea market at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. It’s hard to go anywhere in Kyoto without tripping over a World Heritage Site. Kinkakuji was as beautiful as every picture, and visiting on a weekday morning meant it was far less crowded than the absolutely PACKED Arashiyama we visited on a Saturday. In general, the less crowded a place, the more we enjoyed it. The serene mountain top landscape of the Takeda Castle ruins at sunrise proved more enjoyable than the bustling, grandiose architecture of the reconstructed Himeji Castle. We got to learn about, experience and enjoy Japanese culture through several interactive experiences including a tea ceremony, a Buddhist vegetarian meal in a temple, and making a New Year’s wreath out of rice stalks at a festival stall. Kaiseki restaurant shashimi course & conbini desserts Extravagant & Affordable Although we did splurge on some fancy kaiseki meals, and a stunning traditional ryokan, Japan can be enjoyed with a much lower budget: the youth hostel we stayed at in Ito was 80% as beautiful but only 10% of the cost of the fancy ryokan! And a cheap meal we got at a combini was among our favorites from the trip. Familiar & New Because I lived in Japan for three years, I had many places I wanted to take my husband, many foods I wanted him to taste, and many people I wanted him to meet. At the same time, it was important to us that we created some new memories together in places neither of us had ever been. I think striking this balance of familiar and new is a good idea for people visiting Japan for the first time too. There are many famous Japanese sites you may already be familiar with and visiting them in-person will most definitely live up to their iconic pictures, (we felt this way about Nachi Falls and the Hongu Oyunohara Torii Gate). However, it’s also great to visit places you’ve never heard of, and have no expectations for. When searching for a petting zoo featuring capybara onsen, we were delightfully surprised to find (and ascend) the volcanic dome, Mt Omuro, across the street! The surprises continued when we reached the crest and discovered that nearly everyone there had brought a cute dog. Also, there was a Japanese archery field in the center of the crater, and Mt Fuji was visible on the horizon! My cute husband enjoying the 2022 Pudding Award Contest at the Nobunaga Festival Planned & Spontaneous In general, we planned our lodging and a few activities in each location, but otherwise left our schedule open enough to allow us to follow our in-the-moment interests. We also intentionally left two nights at the end of the itinerary blank in case we wanted to revisit somewhere we felt needed more time. As those days drew near, we decided we wanted to go somewhere entirely new, so we looked at a map and picked a spot along the general route of the bullet train back to Tokyo. We chose the city of Gifu, a little north of the major hub Nagoya. It wasn’t until after we booked our hotel that we found out that the famous Nobunaga Festival would be taking place that weekend! Although we missed the celebrity appearance by Takuya Kimura (and his hordes of fans), we really enjoyed the Pudding Award booths, where we tried two of the nation’s top 20 puddings of 2022. If you haven’t had Japanese pudding, you should immediately stop reading this and go try some- it will change your pudding standards forever. Overall Impressions When anyone asks me how our Japanese honeymoon was, I struggle to find adequate adjectives. “Fantastic”, “Magical”, “Wonderful” all seem to fall short. While it is easy to put Japan’s natural beauty into pictures, it is hard to put Japan’s unparalleled hospitality into words. You wouldn’t know that the tourism industry has been paused for the last two and a half years- it didn’t seem like any restaurant, hotel or shop worker was out of practice. We felt welcomed and cared for everywhere we went. Signs of the pandemic were apparent only in the cleanliness/safety measures being taken everywhere. Hands-free alcohol dispensers were located at every doorway in every building. Plexiglass partitions separated indoor diners, and even outside, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone not wearing a mask. Even at the tightly packed Kurama Fire Festival, all spectators wore masks the whole time and it still felt safe. COVID precautionary measures Travel Tips 1. Get a JR Pass If you intend to do some significant moving around in Japan, I highly recommend you invest in the JR Pass. This special, all-you-can-ride pass for non-residents allows you to use nearly all JR trains in the country, including bullet trains. I also recommend booking your trip for an even 7 day interval so you can maximize your use of the JR Pass which comes in 7, 14, or 21 day options. Please note that there are a few JR trains which are not included, and not all trains in Japan are JR trains. Which brings me to... 2. Get a SUICA or PASMO Card These tap-to-use cards act like debit cards- you can add a balance to them at most train stations and they are accepted as payment for non-JR trains and many buses as well. You can even use them to purchase things at shops near the train station, or to rent a coin locket to store your luggage for the day. 3. Pack Light With the yen as weak as it currently is, you will want to save as much space as possible in your suitcase for bringing things back. Layers are key, and keep in mind that Japanese hotels and ryokans provide sleepwear and basic toiletries. If you don’t pack light, take advantage of the very affordable suitcase delivery services available. We used Yamato Transport to ship our luggage ahead of us so that we didn’t need to store it while hiking. 4. Get Specialized Tickets through a Travel Agency If you plan to visit any special destinations that require reserving tickets ahead of time, I highly recommend booking them through a travel agent. Despite enlisting the help of several Japanese friends, getting tickets to the Ghibli Museum and Universal Studios Japan proved to be the most challenging part of the entire trip! 5. Look up Festivals and Events in any Area you Plan to Visit There’s nothing quite like a Japanese Matsuri, so if you get the chance to go to one, please take it! Even the smallest of towns usually has an annual event that it is known for. Once you have a sense of what’s happening when and where, you can plan the order of your trip accordingly. 6. Don’t Be Afraid to Wander! Some of the best hidden gems can be found when you get lost, so don’t schedule yourself too fully; leave time to wander around and find something that didn’t make it onto the cover of a guidebook.

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Capacity Building Support by the Japan Coast Guard to Developing Countries Mobile Cooperation Team by Ryoki Toku Prologue Sea routes in the Southeast Asian area can be said to be the life lines of Japan. The security and safety of the area is extremely important for Japanese ships as they pass through. Each coastal country's maritime law enforcements are required to have the appropriate capabilities to be able to secure the area. It is also important there are the good relationships and cooperation between the maritime law enforcements of these coastal countries and Japan. Inauguration of JCG Mobile Cooperation Team In October of 2017, the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) established a brand-new unit in the JCG Headquarters called the "Mobile Cooperation Team (MCT)", which focuses on capacity building support for developing country's maritime law enforcements. The MCT consists of 7 people. There are 6 members, under the direction of the seventh member who is the Director for Coast Guard International Cooperation. They engage in training for foreign maritime law enforcement and their goal is to create effective, consistent, and sustainable capacity building support, as well as build trusting relationships with other countries through consultations about country needs in advance, and provision of detailed curriculums following the outcomes of these discussions. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/topics/171002_mct_start.pdf , (Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） The first mission of MCT One month from the inauguration of the MCT, they were dispatched to the Philippines for their first mission: to train the Philippine Coast Guard. The MCT engaged in exercises regarding the maneuvering of high speed small boats. Thee high speed small boats that were used in the exercises were transferred from the Japan government to the Philippine government. The MCT members instructed in several maneuvering skills that related to maritime law enforcement, such as guarding measures, like pinch maneuvering, as well as basic techniques like turning, chasing, or approaching the port. This exercise became an opportunity to teach JCG's maneuvering techniques to other nation's maritime law enforcements as well, given that coast guards from Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia also participated in the exercises. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/kouhou/h29/k20171122/k171122-1.pdf(Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） The opportunity for cooperation between the USCG and the JCG in the field of capacity building support The MCT's first mission was also an opportunity for cooperation between the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the JCG. During the same period, the USCG was also in the Philippines to train the coast guard. The USCG and the JCG coordinated on site, and the USCG then gave a lecture about the maintenance of small boat engines. As a result, in this case, we can say that the USCG and the JCG provided joint training for high speed small boats through their cooperation. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/kouhou/h29/k20171122/k171122-1.pdf(Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） Conclusion The JCG says that through these activities it would like to deepen its trust relationships with other national maritime law enforcements, and contribute to maintaining and developing open and stable oceans under the rules of law. （ The Japan Coast Guard HP, Public release, http://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/info/kouhou/h29/k20171122/k171122-1.pdf(Access: 11th Dec,2017) ） The JCG has engaged in several capacity building efforts regarding maritime law enforcement, especially in Southeast Asian countries, not only recently through the activities of the MCT. It is hoped that these engagements help in establishing an international network in the field of maritime law enforcement amongst those who share the same values. In addition, these engagements promote regional cooperation that should help lead to an avoidance of risks in any unpreventable accidents in the future. Back to All JITTI Journals January 2018 Feature Article

Back to All JITTI Journals July 2018 Feature Article Airport Concession Policy in Japan by Sarah Fraser Earlier this year, in February, JITI USA held a workshop regarding airport redevelopment using public-private partnerships or P3s. I would like to take a moment to check in with this issue and see what developments or changes have been happening since this time. As you may remember from our workshop, we had speakers from a variety of organizations such as the Eno Center for Transportation, as well as a speaker from the LaGuardia Airport and MLIT Japan. In the seminar we discussed recent cases of airport redevelopment using P3 in the United States, such as the LaGuardia Airport Terminal B project, as well as the efforts in Japan, such as the Sendai Airport and the Fukuoka Airport. In addition, we discussed many of the challenges and benefits there are in utilizing P3s in airport redevelopments. JITI staff, former president, and the speakers of our 2018 Airport Workshop From left: Hiroki Sakamoto (JITI), Makoto Washizu (JITI), Robert Puentes (ENO), Lysa Scully (LaGuardia), Azuma Kato (MLIT) I would like to take a moment to review the Japanese approach to airport concession, as explained by Mr. Kato during our seminar. Regional economies and airports in Japan are and were facing a tough time which created the idea to call for airports to serve as points of regional revitalization. In this way, areas could attract tourists and there would be more flexibility to fly in and out of Japan's regional airports as opposed to hub airports. Concessions would also give the addition benefit of improve efficiency for airport governance. When the airports were governed by MLIT for aeronautical activities and private companies were in charge of non-aeronautical activities there was a disconnect between the management strategies. The idea behind using a concession system was the ability to unify this strategy and attract airlines to various airports. In addition, by using a concession strategy, there would more incentive for efficient airport management and operations across the board, as well as more incentive to promote individual airports for tourism or in connection with local business and other entities. With concessions in place, there are a variety of important benefits, such as improved accessibility to destinations, a stimulus for Japan's overall airline industry, and local revitalization, one of the main focal points. For more information, you can find Mr. Kato's presentation here (link to presentation) via the JITI website. Attracting airlines is one benefit of implementing concessions systems. ( Airport by Jorge Díaz is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 ) Recently, MLIT has announced that starting in 2020 they will outsource the operation of four national airports, as well as two specific municipal airports and one municipal airport, to the private sector. In accordance with this, MLIT has developed an application guidelines document, which contains conditions and procedures, the selection methods for P3s, and schedules/deadlines for applications and selections. According to the schedule, the terminal building operations will begin in January of 2020 with runway operations continuing at later dates from June of the same year to March of 2021. Using the private-sector know-how and P3s, MLIT hopes to promote tourism and improve the regional activation of the seven airports in Hokkaido. It will be interesting to see the process and the fruits of this extensive P3 project in Hokkaido.

Development of High-speed Rail in the United States by Shuntaro Okimoto Since coming to Washington, D.C. last summer, I have been investigating various subjects in the transportation sector. In Japan, in recent years a hot topic is the development of high-speed rail in the United States. Currently, the only high-speed rail in the United States that is universally acknowledged is the Acela Express. Those who advocate for high speed railway development in the United States voice that by having this advancement, people will gain more transportation choices and will be able to live more conveniently. In Japan, high-speed railways are set up around the country, and the network continues to expand to this day. If you have been to Japan and have been on the Japanese bullet train, Shinkansen, you know that you can travel far, fast and comfortably. From Tokyo, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to Sendai (4 hours and a half by car), about 1 hour and 40 minutes to Nagoya (4 hours and a half by car), about 2 hours and 20 minutes to Osaka (6 hours by car), and about 4 hours for Hiroshima (10 hours by car) or Hakodate in Hokkaido (about 18 hours by car). Because it is a very convenient transportation system, Japanese people (especially those who live in Tokyo, the center of the network) use the Shinkansen for business and family trips. Furthermore, because of their experience and knowledge of its usefulness, many Japanese want to recommend high speed rail to foreign countries, and especially to the US, which they feel a familiarity with. They are also ready to offer their technical skills. Therefore, there are both people in the United States who wish for the development of high speed rail, and those in Japan who are prepared to offer their expertise to make this happen. This then begs the question, “Why is there no progress for the developments of high-speed rail in the US?” Various hypotheses have been proposed as to why. Some of these include: Japanese people like railroads, but that most Americans don't as much, preferring cars and airplanes; it costs too much money for construction in the US; and that the US and Japan are too different in terms of country size, population density, and population concentration in cities to make high speed rail construction possible. In order to find the answer to this conundrum, I compared various data of both countries, such as preferences in modes of transportation, population, history, geography, and the government’s financial situation. An Acela Express high-speed train ( Amtrak Acela Express power car no. 2000, Boston South Station, MA by Michael Day is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0 ) My answer to the question at the moment is that the lack of development is due to the fact that construction of high-speed rail is occurring after those of other traffic modes. In the United States, other modes of transportation developed significantly beforehand, as represented by the introduction of jet aircraft starting in the 1950s and the completion of about 65,000 km of highway in 1991 with a construction period of 35 years. For that reason, railways have been excluded from discussions for how to build comprehensive traffic modes or how to make them more convenient. The development of high-speed rail in the United States has only been considered as a means to recover the declined intercity passenger rail system. The situation is very different from Japan's high-speed railway, which has been developed to compete with highway construction. Of the specific issues deterring the development of high-speed rail in US, the biggest obstacle is finance. In particular, two major risks that occur with railway construction projects are increases in construction costs and the procurement of fare revenue. These problems are universal, and in addition the public often shares in some of the risk as well. Thus, a history of creating and maintaining rail after other modes of transportation is completed is an obstacle itself. How does one attain support for a high-speed railway when construction of said railway is continually postponed? I think that is very difficult. We cannot change the past. However, does this mean that high-speed rail development in the United States will remain a dream? I do not think so. I’ve observed that people in this country, whether consciously or subconsciously, like for travel to be convenient and comfortable. There are many services here that are not available or are not as prevalent in Japan that prove my point. For example, since coming to the United States, I've been addicted to ride-sharing services. I’ve also wanted to try riding the electric scooters in Washington, D.C. which are popular too. The Washington, D.C. subway SmarTrip Card is simple and easy to use. The buses here may be cleaner and more comfortable than Japan. The airport has many signs and is spacious. The highway has many lanes and it is easier to drive on them. I think high-speed rail will be definitely appreciated by people in this country who prefer comfortable travel. As people in the United States become more aware of high-speed railways, the solution to the difficult problem of gaining support mentioned above will be attained. I presented my research in Tokyo this summer, and introduced high-speed rail projects in the United States to a Japanese audience. It seemed interesting to them that the projects were being promoted in California, Florida, Texas, etc., despite difficulties. From the audience, I received the following comments. “It is the same as in Japan that high-speed rail projects include working with other modes of transportation and developing surrounding areas.” “ The disclosure of information, such as cost estimates related to the project, is more advanced than in Japan.” “I realized that Japan can also learn more by knowing about high-speed rail projects developing in the United States.” I want to continue to challenge myself to connect the consciousnesses of the people in both our countries through research activities. Pictured here is the Shinkansen in Japan, which has transported over 5 billion passengers ( Tokyo 4338 by tokyoform is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 ) Back to All JITTI Journals September 2019 Feature Article

Toward the Spread and Expansion of Sports Culture Tourism By Hirokazu Nishikawa While there are various forms of tourism around the world, there is a movement to promote and expand "sports culture tourism" in Japan as well. Sports culture tourism refers to the establishment and dissemination of new regional and Japanese brands by linking local sporting events with cultural and artistic resources, with the aim of increasing the number of foreign visitors to Japan, revitalizing domestic tourism, and revitalizing the Japanese and regional economies. The "Comprehensive Collaborative Agreement among the Japan Sports Agency, Agency for Cultural Affairs, and Japan Tourism Agency" was signed in March 2016 between the three government agencies listed, and they have been holding the "Sports Culture Tourism Awards" every year since then. The Sports Culture Tourism Awards publicly solicits, selects, and presents awards to initiatives and events that contribute to the promotion of sports culture tourism. For the 8th award, Sports Culture Tourism Award 2023, seven award-winning organizations were selected from among 29 initiatives and events that were submitted from August to September 2023 (announced in the press on January 11, 2024). In this issue, I would like to introduce the initiatives of these award-winning organizations. Main Awards (Applicant Organization) Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture “Sports Culture Tourism Centered on Imabari Castle, the Strongest Castle in Japan - The History of the Seto Inland Sea Central Region's Domination Leads to the Present Day” Outline of the Project The “Imabari Castle” in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, is the center of a series of events held in the Seto Inland Sea in Japanese fiscal year (※) 2022. The cultural event Takatora Summit in Imabari was held, and sports events such as Setouchi Shimanami Kaido Three-Day March, Imabari Criterium (a mass-start road-cycle race), Cycling Shimanami 2022, and Imabari City Marathon took place, attracting many people from Japan and abroad. In addition, Setouchi Minato Marché, a food and specialty event, was organized to encourage event visitors and tourists to stay in the city. (※) Japanese fiscal year runs from April to March (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The Marché event has done a good job of involving the local community through the use of citizen volunteers, etc. Each event is attractive, and cultural and natural resources such as Imabari Castle, Murakami Suigun, and the Shimanami Sea Route are utilized to hold cultural and sporting events that appeal to a wide range of people. Various efforts are being made to disseminate information overseas through PR on airline flights, production of TV dramas, and cooperation with bicycle manufacturers. (Applicant Organization) Echigo Matsudai Trail Running Executive Committee “[We plan to] revitalize old paths scattered throughout the satoyama (mountainous regions within village-vicinities) and to make them available as new regional resources! “Echigo Matsudai Spring Festival Trail Running Race" " Outline of the project A trail running event held in Matsudai, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. Old roads that are no longer used and in disrepair were re-excavated and prepared for the course, which included a course through a satoyama village. The event was created to allow participants to experience the original landscape of Japan. By linking the event with the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, it will have the unique feature of "combining art and trail running," and its objectives are to revitalize local communities, preserve the satoyama environment, and advocate climate change action for athletes. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The potential tourism resource of old roads in satoyama is well utilized. The project involves the local community and attracts inbound visitors. This is a very effective opportunity to highlight permanent artwork. (Applicant Organization) Annaka City Tourism Organization, General Incorporated Association “ A Railway’s Dead End, Dead No Longer: Revitalization efforts for the benefit of future generations ” Outline of Initiatives Since 2018, a walking tour has operated using an abandoned railway line in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, utilizing the Yokogawa-Karuizawa section of the Shinetsu Main Line (commonly known as the Usui Line), which was last operated in 1997. The event is an 11-km guided walk along the normally off-limits section of the line to experience its historical value and the difficulty of crossing the mountain pass. More than 90% of the participants are from outside of the prefecture, making this event a draw that will encourage other local travel and spending. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The use of a disused railroad line makes it feel special, and the fact that it has a solid historical background and a story to tell is highly valuable. The fact that the target audience is not only people who like traveling and hiking, but also people who like railroads and civil engineering structures is new. The fact that the majority of participants are from outside of the prefecture is also very tourism-oriented. By becoming a model case for the utilization of abandoned railway lines, of which there are likely to be many throughout Japan, it is hoped that other derivative models can be created. Special Awards *Two applicable cases ① (Applicant Organization) Nara City General Foundation, General Incorporated Foundation “Enjoy authentic Japanese archery for foreign tourists - Experience the spirit of the samurai in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan ” Outline of the Project This is a project to allow foreign tourists to experience authentic Japanese archery derived from the tradition of Bushido in Nara, the hometown of the samurai. They will learn the basics of Kyudo and how to behave under the gentle and strict one-on-one guidance of a high-ranked instructor, and finally shoot an arrow by themselves. The goal is to promote the image of "Budo" = "Nara" and "Budo" = "Nara's new brand" internationally, which will lead to budo tourism from overseas. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The value of this event will be enhanced for the local community with its history and background. The opportunity to experience authentic martial arts by wearing hakama in a real dojo is a good opportunity for visitors to understand the beauty and dignity of the Japanese people. It is a good opportunity for visitors to learn more about Nara by learning about cultural elements. ② (Applicant Organization) Fukushima Town Tourism Association “Fukushima Town, Hokkaido: "Sumo Tournament for Women Only" - the only town in Japan to have two yokozuna (sumo grand champions)” Outline of the Project The "Sumo Tournament for Women Only" has been held in Fukushima-cho, Hokkaido since 1991. It began as a project to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Kawasuso Shrine's founding and to dedicate the "women-only festival procession," and has been held every year on the second Sunday of May (Mother's Day), with the 29th held in 2023. By holding sumo, which is recognized as a national sport, as an event targeting women, they aim to broaden its base and provide a good opportunity for the children who support it to think about "women's activities" and "gender equality.” (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation This event is attended by people from overseas and outside the region. This event has been carried out for about 30 years, and it is highly valued as a part of the local sumo culture. The program has been carried out continuously with a cultural and historical background, while also taking into account the viewpoint of women's activities. (Applicant Organization) Tourism Promotion Bureau of Shimosuwa Town Regional Development Corporation, General Incorporated Association “National Historic Site and Japanese Heritage: The Jomon World of the Starry Central Highlands: Making the "Hoshigatou Obsidian Origin Site" a Tourism Resource” Outline of the Project The Hoshigatoh Obsidian Site in Shimosuwa Town, Nagano Prefecture, was recognized as a National Historic Site in 2015 and a Japan Heritage Site in 2018. The Hoshigatoh Ruins, which are normally off-limits to visitors, will be offered as a special tour with commentary by the discoverer/excavator. In addition, they are taking a multifaceted approach by collaborating with cultural resources and museum facilities scattered in the surrounding area. By actively utilizing cultural assets while properly managing them, the project aims to create a virtuous cycle of culture, tourism, and regional revitalization. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The content is a combination of Japanese heritage sites and surrounding culture, and the presence of a variety of guides adds value. The program is designed to involve local businesses, is also designed to encourage participants to become repeat visitors, and to create fans of the local community. The project is contributing to the expansion of recognition of Japanese heritage sites themselves. (Applicant Organization) Office of the Tan-Tetsu-ko Promotion Council “"Tan-Tetsu-Ko Meshi (Tan-Tetsu-ko Meal) Project," a culinary tour of a Japanese heritage site Outline of the Project The story of the coal and other industrial revolutions "Coal, Iron, and Port (Tan-tetsu-ko)" in Sorachi, Hokkaido, which supported Japan's growth and recovery from the Meiji era through the prewar, wartime, and postwar periods, has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site. This initiative named the food that took root in the lives of people who worked in coal mines, steel mills, ports, and railway-related facilities "Tan-tetsu-ko Meshi (Coal, Iron, and Port Meal)”, and in FY2021, commercialized the food at a major convenience store chain and installed panels at tourist information centers. In FY2022, they produced a guidebook listing the restaurants where Tan-tetsu-ko meshi was actually available and conducted an online stamp rally. (Image Source : Japan Tourism Agency https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001717137.pdf ) Evaluation The program focuses on food that can be tasted in the region and makes full use of the Japanese heritage story. The collaboration with a major convenience store chain is interesting because of its novelty. The program is collaborating with a number of businesses in the region, and is working on a wide-area partnership within a 100-kilometer radius. These award-winning organizations were honored at a related event, the 7th Sports Culture Tourism Symposium, held in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo on February 2, 2024. The Japanese government is committed to regional revitalization, which aims to correct the concentration of people in Tokyo, halt the population decline in rural areas, and increase the vitality of Japan as a whole. I believe that the revitalization of these regions through tourism will have a significant effect as a first step toward this goal. 【References】 「スポーツ文化ツーリズムアワード 2023 」の受賞団体を発表します ～スポーツ文化ツーリズムの普及、拡大に向けて～ | 2024 年 | 報道発表 | 報道・会見 | 観光庁 ( mlit.go.jp ) Back to All JITTI Journals March 2024 Feature Article

MaaS in Urban Tokyo by Daisuke Miyamoto 1. What is MaaS? (1) "Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is the integration of various forms of transport services into a single mobility service accessible on demand. To meet a customer’s request, a MaaS operator facilitates a diverse menu of transport options, be they public transport, ride-, car- or bike-sharing, taxi or car rental/lease, or a combination thereof. For the user, MaaS can offer added value through use of a single application to provide access to mobility , with a single payment channel instead of multiple ticketing and payment operations. For its users, MaaS should be the best value proposition , by helping them meet their mobility needs and solve the inconvenient parts of individual journeys as well as the entire system of mobility services.” 2. What has the concept of MaaS done? While the MaaS concept has affected every transportation industry throughout the world, at the same time, Daimler, who is the one of car leading companies in the world, revealed their “CASE” concept at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. CASE stands for the fields of networking (Connected), autonomous driving (Autonomous), flexible use (Shared & Services) and electric drive systems (Electric) (2) , and will impact the car industry as well. It is said that both innovations will cause a great mobility revolution that is only seen once every 100 years since cars were first developed. Because both concepts help reduce the ownership of cars, curtail carbon dioxide emissions, encourage the use of public transportation and minimize congestion, many countries and companies have been studying MaaS and CASE in order to enlist these concepts. 3. MaaS in Japan (3) The Japanese government has studied MaaS as well to ride the wave of its increasing popularity, and found that when MaaS is simulated in their future investment strategies, it helps the surrounding communities to achieve a high quality of life and mobilizes society by driving up the potential demand for going out. However, because there are many types of cities in Japan, and each one has several types of transportation options, it has been difficult to directly apply a single concept to every city. They have had to consider and develop a way for MaaS to be suitable for Japan, or one might say that they created a Japanese MaaS. Finally, the Japanese government has found that there are 5 suitable types of MaaS in Japan, as follows: a. Metropolis b. Suburb c. Regional city d. Rural area e. Tourism These MaaS types have different goals, but the Japanese government believes that MaaS will be one of the better solutions for an aging society and expanding urbanization. 4. One MaaS Case Study in Tokyo Tokyo Metro, one of the leading subway operators in the world, has recently launched their MaaS project (4) . They called their Metropolis MaaS project “My! Tokyo MaaS." Tokyo Metro has 179 stations, 7.55 million passengers, and a 195.0 km rail network in Tokyo, so they have earned the position to be able to develop a Metropolis type of MaaS. They emphasize 3 concepts in order to add value to their rail network and service, as follows: a. Personalized trip planning and added value Passengers can get easier access to information for their destination, like routes to elevators in stations and paths to take to avoid getting wet when it’s raining. b. Real-time train operation information Passengers can, of course, get real-time transit operation information and train location information, but can also moreover get suggestions of detours in the case of an accident. c. A more precise network Tokyo Metro will work together with other mobility operators to enable passengers to easily access various mobility modes. I believe that this project will assist not only commuters around urban Tokyo, but also foreign visitors. We are in severe times with COVID-19, but I believe that we can overcome it and enjoy travel again someday, of course with “My! Tokyo MaaS.” Fig. Concept image of my! Tokyo MaaS References: https://maas-alliance.eu/homepage/what-is-maas/ https://media.daimler.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko/CASE-Networked-strategy.xhtml?oid=29182599#:~:text=CASE%20%E2%80%93%20these%20letters%20are%20shaping,corporate%20strategy%20of%20Daimler%20AG . https://www.mlit.go.jp/common/001287842.pdf https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/images_h/metroNews20200325_34.pdf Back to All JITTI Journals July 2020 Feature Article

Back to All JITTI Journals September 2022 Feature Article EXPO 2025: Osaka, Kansai, Japan by Hirokazu Nishikawa 1. Introduction In March 2019, JITTI USA introduced ( article link ) Japan's winning bid to host the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. Since then, more exciting details have been finalized. The Osaka-Kansai Expo will be held in the Kansai region of Japan, on Yumeshima in Osaka Prefecture, and is scheduled to be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025, for a total of 184 days. The number of visitors is estimated to be approximately 28.2 million, and the economic ripple effect is estimated to be approximately 2 trillion yen. Japan has hosted five expositions in the past, the first of which was held in Osaka in 1970. Expos are events that bring together people and goods from all over the world, and they are places where wisdom and knowledge from across the globe gather to address various universal issues. The 1970 Osaka Expo (EXPO '70), the first to be held in Japan and Asia, became a major event symbolizing Japan's rapid economic growth. The 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo will be the first international exposition to be held in Japan in 20 years, following Expo 2005. The Expo is also expected to showcase new science and technology, and Japan is currently working on a number of initiatives in preparation for the event. In this issue, we would like to outline the framework of the Expo, the necessary infrastructure development, and the status of regulations and maintenance of the "flying car," which is expected to be one of the highlights of the Expo. Yumeshima Location Map (From: Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition2025 ) 2. Outline The official website of the Osaka-Kansai Expo states that the purpose of the Expo is to use the centripetal force and power of the Expo to attract people and goods as a catalyst for continued growth in Osaka, Kansai, and Japan after the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Expo will also serve as a "catalyst" for the development of new technologies and products that will make life more convenient, and the two goals of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo are to "contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)" and "realize Japan's national strategy Society 5.0." Specifically, with regard to the former goal, 2025 is an extremely important year for accelerating efforts to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) set by the United Nations. With 2030 established as the target to fulfill the SDGs,the Expo’s aim is to be a platform for accomplishing them by the deadline in 5 years. The latter aims to form Japan's national strategy "Society 5.0" (a human-centered society that balances economic development and solutions to social issues through a system that highly integrates cyberspace (virtual space) and physical space (real space)). This new society will follow past eras of the hunting and gathering, agricultural, industrial, and information societies. This age will be one in which various global issues are solved through technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), robotics, big data, and biotechnology, or in other words, a society in which the SDGs have been achieved. Through all of the above, Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai will "bring together the world's wisdom, including cutting-edge technologies, to create and disseminate new ideas," "increase investment from Japan and abroad," "create innovation by stimulating exchange," "revitalize the local economy and small and medium-sized businesses," and "provide an opportunity to disseminate a rich Japanese culture. The project aims to realize the following goals. (From: Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan Master Plan ) 3. Infrastructure Development for the Expo (Subway Extension and Reinforcement of Kansai International Airport) The infrastructure development that will support the Osaka-Kansai Expo, with its great ambitions, will be the first step in the preparations for the event. In response to requests from Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, and the Union of Kansai Governments, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has decided on a plan for infrastructure development related to the Expo. The plan includes the following five pillars. Development of infrastructure around the Expo site Improvement of access to the venue Improvement of safety Improvement of liveliness and attractiveness Improvement of wide-area transportation infrastructure Here are examples of transportation infrastructure improvements. Around the venue, plans call for extending the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, the transportation hub in the center of the prefecture, to Yumeshima Station (tentative name), as well as promoting the widening of other major bridges and the construction of multi-level intersections on trunk roads and other roads. As for infrastructure improvements to improve access to the venue, the Yodogawa River Left Bank Line, scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, is expected to be completed earlier and used as an access route for shuttle buses between Shin-Osaka Station/Osaka Station and the Expo site in the interim. In addition, Kansai International Airport will undergo a drastic renovation focusing on the expansion of international flight capacity, including the integrated operation of the north-south international flight area. Together with Terminal 2, this will create a terminal capacity of approximately 40 million passengers per year for international flights. As part of enhancements allowing venue access from a wide area, the Naniwa-suji Line will improve connections between Osaka and Kansai International Airport and the extension of the Osaka Monorail will enable travel without passing through urban areas, which will in turn strengthen the railroad infrastructure and create a ring highway network for the Osaka and the Kansai regions, including the New Meishin Expressway and the western extension of Osaka Bay Coastal Highway. 3. Flying Cars Several contents are expected to be presented at the Expo, but one of the highlights of the Expo will be the "flying car. This new technology is currently being studied around the world and is expected not only to solve various regional problems, but also to provide a new form of transportation that will enable people to lead affluent lives wherever they are. In Japan, the government and the private sector have cooperated to establish a public-private sector council to develop a regulatory system and form a market, and studies are underway nationwide to develop various services such as passenger transportation, scenic flights, and emergency transport services. This concept image of flying cars is by Ken Okuyama Design, and was created for the MLIT (From: AAMinJAPAN_211005ENG (mlit.go.jp ) The plan is to launch commercial service at the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025 to raise public awareness, as well as to start full-scale operations in logistics and passenger transportation. Although the "flying car" is a dream come true, it is not difficult to imagine that there have been many discussions regarding the regulatory system needed to ensure their operational safety. The following is a rough outline of the items under consideration and the progress of each. Safety standards for aircraft The short-term goal of the study on airframe safety standards between 2023 and 2025 is to organize special requirements for eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) airframes when obtaining type certification (certification that an aircraft type (excluding military aircraft) meets safety and environmental compatibility standards). The new requirements are to be organized for eVTOL (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft. Progress has been made in organizing the types of aircraft to be considered, organizing the flow of studies for formulating considerations when creating safety standards, and tentatively establishing design requirements based on the types and performance of eVTOLs that are assumed. Also, The mid- and long-term goals for 2025 and beyond include the development of safety standards that take into account the use of remote control, automatic flight, and autonomous flight, which are expected to provide convenience and help solve social issues. Certification of Pilot and Maintenance Vehicle Skill Regarding the requirements for certification of pilot and maintenance vehicle skills, the regulations state that "the role required of pilots must be considered in light of the development of new technologies such as autonomous control that will contribute to future autopilot systems, and the possibility that the role required of pilots will change" and "as in the case of conventional aircraft skills certification, the flight time and maintenance experience required for each type of eVTOL must be taken into account and included in the requirements.” As for the requirements for pilots and maintainers of remotely piloted aircraft, the following points are also being considered: "A proficiency certification system for remotely piloted aircraft, which is expected to be used for cargo transport, should be developed, taking into account trends in Europe and other countries. The requirements for remote piloted aircraft maintenance personnel include to: "Clarify what knowledge and experience is required for systems that are not available for other aircraft, especially in remote piloted aircraft. Operational Safety Standards The issues to be addressed in the operational safety standards can be divided into three categories: (1) those related to requirements and processes for setting flight areas, flight paths, and altitudes; (2) those related to the maintenance of takeoff and landing sites; and (3) those related to equipment requirements and processes. Regarding (1), the requirements include the establishment of limited routes and areas that take into consideration congestion with existing manned aircraft as a guarantee of air safety, and assumptions regarding the introduction of advanced traffic management systems that will become necessary as the number of routes and frequency of flying vehicles increase in the future. Regarding point (2), under the current legal system, in principle, takeoffs and landings are prohibited at locations other than airports, etc., and this includes the need to review operational methods as necessary. As for (3), it includes the clarification of equipment requirements to ensure that devices for measuring the airborne posture, altitude, position, or course of the eVTOL, and first-aid equipment for emergency landing when flying over water, etc. are clarified. 4. Conclusion The above is a brief overview of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, and some of the issues that have been discussed. The Osaka-Kansai Expo states, as part of its philosophy, "We will live together in this world by recognizing the similarities and differences among the various forms of life that exist in the natural world, by developing empathy for others, and by respecting diverse cultures and ideas. By doing so, we humans will be able to create new values to address various global issues and build a sustainable future." Although there is still a long way to go in the discussions and deliberations leading up to the Expo, which will no doubt require a higher level of expertise than that discussed in this article, we hope that the Expo will be a good opportunity for many people of all races and nationalities to visit, share knowledge, and promote international exchange and understanding, just as the aforementioned philosophy suggests. References: Overview | Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition (expo2025.or.jp) 報道発表資料：大阪・関西万博に向け、インフラ整備を推進～「２０２５年に開催される日本国際博覧会（大阪・関西万博）に関連するインフラ整備計画」の決定～ - 国土交通省 (mlit.go.jp) AAMinJAPAN_211005ENG (mlit.go.jp) 2025年大阪・関西万博に向けたインフラ整備計画決定。大阪メトロ延伸や淀川左岸線完成前倒し、関空国際線機能強化など 会場周辺やアクセス機能強化、にぎわい創出図る - トラベル Watch (impress.co.jp)

Japanese Government Initiatives for Inbound Tourism Recovery by Hirokazu Nishikawa Introduction Last October, during the Ministerial Conference on the Promotion of Tourism presided over by the Prime Minister, the government decided on a new "Policy Package for a Full-Scale Recovery of Inbound Travel." The government will mobilize all relevant ministries and agencies to implement intensive measures with the aim of achieving inbound consumption of over 5 trillion yen. The pre-Covid target was to achieve 15 trillion yen in inbound travel spending by 2030, and although the target has been reset to about one-third of the same amount, the government intends to take advantage of the weak yen to achieve the same amount as quickly as possible. In this report, I would like to provide an overview of the package. Contents of the Package The package has the following four pillars, which are listed below along with specific examples of each. (1) Providing special experiences Promote the provision of special experiences and limited-time-only activities throughout the country, such as the limited-opening of Himeji Castle's keep, which is a World Heritage site. The provision of special experiences and limited-time-only initiatives will be promoted in every corner of Japan. Other examples include the opening of the interior of the five-story pagoda at Myooin Temple in Hiroshima Prefecture and the opening of the Shosoin Temple in Nara Prefecture to the public (both are designated national treasures). Myooin Five-Story Pagoda 【 Reference 】 国宝 明王院 オフィシャルホームページ ( chisan.net ) Shosoin Temple 【 Reference 】 正倉院 - 東大寺 ( todaiji.or.jp ) (2) Providing new experiences that take advantage of the charms of nature Promote the provision of new content, such as adventure tourism, which refers to activities that allow visitors to experience nature. In national parks, promote nighttime use, etc., in order to expand the use of these parks. Nighttime walking event in Akan-Mashu National Park 【 Reference 】 KAMUY LUMINA ( カムイルミナ ) (3) Promote events as a hook to attract visitors Combine tourism with art, sports, theme park-related events, etc., to attract visitors from all over Japan. Japanese food and culture, international art festivals, and large-scale international sports events will be utilized. Ghibli Park 【 Reference 】 ジブリパークとは｜ジブリパーク ( ghibli-park.jp ) (4) Strategic promotion, CIQ (Customs, Immigration, Quarantine), etc. Strategically promote the restart of tourism in Japan using social media, TV commercials, etc. Also, promote the improvement of entry points into Japan, including by further upgrading the CIQ system, in preparation for the resumption of international flights. Conclusion According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the number of foreign visitors to Japan in 2022 was approximately 3.83 million, a rapid recovery of more than 15 times compared to the previous year. Although still only 10% of the pre-Covid figure for 2019, further recovery in the number of foreign visitors to Japan is expected, supported by the impact of the yen's depreciation. The content of the package suggests that the Japanese government will develop a tourism strategy that makes the most of Japan's unique characteristics, and we look forward to this and will continue to closely monitor the Japanese government's moves to re-launch tourism. 【Reference】 001583431.pdf ( mlit.go.jp ) Back to All JITTI Journals July 2023 Feature Article