Strengthening Aviation Safety through SSP < Back

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JITTI Journal March 2025 Back to All JITTI Journals March 2025 Feature Article Tourism in Japan: A look at the Numbers from 2024 and the Outlook for 2025 by Haruhiko Koyama Global and Japanese Tourism in 2024 The year 2024 marked a recovery for the global tourism industry, with many regions entering a phase of growth beyond pre-pandemic levels. According to UN Tourism, international tourist arrivals in 2024 reached approximately 1.4 billion, equivalent to 99% of 2019 levels. Total exports from tourism, including passenger transport, hit a record high of USD 1.9 trillion, with international tourism receipts reaching USD 1.6 trillion, a 4% increase compared to 2019. This recovery has been driven by strong post-pandemic travel demand, robust performance from large source markets, and the ongoing recovery of destinations in Asia and the Pacific. Japan has also emerged as one of the popular destinations for international travelers, setting a new record for annual inbound visitors. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA), about 36.9 million foreign tourists visited Japan in 2024, surpassing the previous record of 31.9 million in 2019 by approximately 16%. Furthermore, total spending by inbound tourists reached a historic high of approximately JPY 8.1 trillion (USD 53.3 billion), with per capita spending estimated at around JPY 227,000 (USD 1,493). Inbound tourist spending of JPY 8.1 trillion (USD 53.3 billion) ranked as Japan's second-largest export sector, following automobile exports, which amounted to approximately JPY 17.7 trillion (USD 116.4 billion) in 2024 (based on trade statistics from the Ministry of Finance for January to November, annualized). This underscores the increasing importance of tourism in Japan’s economy. A Look at Japan’s Inbound Tourism Growth First, let's look at the trend of Japan’s inbound tourism growth over the years. Japan’s strategic approach to increasing inbound tourism began in 2003 with the "Visit Japan Campaign." Despite setbacks such as the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, tourist numbers gradually increased, surpassing 10 million for the first time in 2013. Subsequent policy measures, including visa relaxations, expanded tax-free programs, improved immigration procedures, and the expansion of flight networks, led to a record-high 31.9 million visitors in 2019. Like many other countries, Japan’s tourism industry suffered a major blow from the pandemic starting in 2020. However, after the easing of border restrictions in 2023, inbound tourism gradually recovered, with momentum accelerating in 2024, eventually setting a new record of 36.9 million visitors. Factors Behind the Increase in Foreign Tourists in Japan Let’s take a look at the details of Japan’s inbound tourism in 2024. According to reports, the JTA believes that several factors have contributed to the rise in inbound tourism in 2024. The recovery of airline routes is thought to have boosted visitor numbers not only from East Asia, which had already been a major source market before the pandemic, but also from Southeast Asia, the United States, Europe, and Australia. Additionally, the efforts made by both the public and private sectors, including sustained promotional activities, continuous improvements to tourism content, and other long-term initiatives undertaken since before the pandemic, have yielded results. Along with favorable exchange rates for international visitors, these initiatives are considered to have further encouraged travel throughout the year. Top Five Source Markets for Japan’s Inbound Tourism in 2024 According to the JNTO, the top five inbound markets in 2024 were as follows (figures in parentheses indicate year-over-year growth): South Korea: 8,817,800 visitors (+26.7%) China: 6,981,200 visitors (+187.9%) Taiwan: 6,044,400 visitors (+43.8%) United States: 2,724,600 visitors (+33.2%) Hong Kong: 2,683,500 visitors (+26.9%) East Asian countries and regions, which are geographically close to Japan, dominate the top ranks. However, the United States stands out as the fourth-largest inbound market, with its year-over-year growth exceeding that of South Korea and Hong Kong. Regarding China, inbound travel remained sluggish in 2023 due to political and economic factors related to Japan’s release of Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS) treated water into the ocean, as well as delays in the recovery of airline routes following the pandemic. As a result, the year-over-year increase in 2024 was significant. In 2019, China accounted for approximately 9.6 million visitors to Japan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan announced last year plans to relax tourism visa requirements for Chinese visitors, aiming to implement the changes around spring 2025. The changes include introducing a 10-year multiple-entry visa for affluent travelers and extending the maximum stay for group tour visas to 30 days. If political and economic conditions remain stable, the number of Chinese tourists in 2025 could match or even surpass pre-pandemic levels. Tourist Destinations in Japan According to the JTA, approximately 70% of foreign visitors to Japan in 2024 traveled to the three major metropolitan areas (Greater Tokyo, Greater Osaka, and Aichi), while 30% visited regional destinations. In 2019, about 60% of visitors stayed in the three major metropolitan areas, with 40% exploring regional areas. This indicates a post-pandemic trend of increased concentration in urban areas. However, the JNTO reports that more travelers from the United States, Europe, Australia, India, and Singapore are staying in regional areas in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. The JTA recognizes the importance of promoting regional tourism to stimulate local economies and prevent overtourism. To achieve this, the government, local authorities, and private-sector businesses are collaborating to develop high-quality, immersive tourism experiences in regional areas. Key initiatives include supporting the development of experience-based tourism products and selecting 14 model destinations nationwide to attract luxury travelers. These efforts aim to introduce Japan’s "hidden gems" to a broader international audience. Outbound Tourism from Japan On the other hand, outbound travel from Japan has seen only a modest recovery. According to the JTA, approximately 13 million Japanese travelers went abroad in 2024, 65% of pre-pandemic levels. The agency attributes this to exchange rate fluctuations and rising travel and airfare costs to popular destinations. Recognizing the importance of outbound travel for fostering international awareness and mutual understanding, the JTA is working with relevant ministries to promote educational travel abroad. From the perspective of deepening international exchange and increasing mutual visits, it also believes that establishing sister city relationships between Japanese and foreign municipalities is crucial for strengthening ties. Outlook for 2025 From this April to October, Osaka will host the World Expo. According to the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, approximately 28.2 million visitors are expected, with about 10% coming from overseas. In addition, major international sporting events, such as the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (September) and the Deaflympics in Tokyo (November), are also expected to drive inbound tourism. Similarly, for outbound tourism from Japan, these global events may inspire Japanese travelers to explore the world beyond Japan. Additionally, Japan’s visibility in media remains strong. For instance, Japan ranked first in Condé Nast Traveler’s "Top Countries in the World: Readers’ Choice Awards 2024" in the U.S. and U.K., Osaka and Toyama were featured in The New York Times’ "52 Places to Go This Year," and Kanazawa was listed in National Geographic’s "Best of the World 2025." These factors are expected to contribute to continued inbound tourism growth in 2025. The JTA has set ambitious targets of 60 million inbound visitors and JPY 15 trillion (USD 98.7 billion) in tourism-related spending by 2030. Public-private collaboration will continue to enhance promotional efforts to achieve these goals. Looking Ahead According to UN Tourism, international tourist arrivals in 2025 are projected to grow by 3% to 5% compared to 2024, assuming favorable global economic conditions, continued inflation decline, and stable geopolitical situations. Since the inauguration of the Trump administration, geopolitical and economic uncertainty have been increasing. However, tourism plays a crucial role not only in providing enjoyment and joyfulness to travelers but also in fostering international understanding and cultural exchange. As both the global and Japanese tourism industries navigate this evolving landscape, we will continue to closely monitor how they adapt to these shifting dynamics in 2025. References UN Tourism, International tourism recovers pre-pandemic levels in 2024 https://www.unwto.org/news/international-tourism-recovers-pre-pandemic-levels-in-2024 Japan Tourism Agency, White Paper on Tourism in Japan, 2024 (Summary) https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001767069.pdf Japan Tourism Agency, White Paper on Tourism in Japan, 2019 (Summary) https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/810003406.pdf Japan Tourism Agency, The New Tourism Nation Promotion Basic Plan https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/en/kankorikkoku/kihonkeikaku.html Japan National Tourism Organization, Japan Tourism Statistics Latest Information https://statistics.jnto.go.jp/en/graph/#graph--latest--figures Condé Nast Traveler, Top Countries in the World: Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 (US) https://www.cntraveler.com/story/top-countries-in-the-world The New York Times, 52 Places to Go in 2025 https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/travel/places-to-travel-destinations-2025.html National Geographic, Best of the World 2025 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/slideshow/best-of-the-world-2025 Exchange Rate Assumption All USD conversions in this document are based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 152 JPY, which reflects the exchange rate at the time of writing.

A Private Workspace in Train Stations A Private Workspace in Train Stations  by Akito Okabe Introduction Do you know what these strange boxes are that have been popping up across train stations in Japan? Image Source: Tokyo Metro Co.,Ltd They are private workspaces made for one person and are used for various situations, such as when you have spare time while going out and about, or when you need to hold a quick web conference. These workspaces can also be used not only for work, but also for reading, studying, etc. This article introduces a unique approach to manage privacy needs in Japan, where these facilities inside stations have become well developed. Background: Diversification of Work Styles Japan is facing a "decline in the working-age population due to the falling birth rate and aging population" and greater "workforce need diversification, such as balancing work with childcare and nursing care.1” In order to solve these problems, Japan has been striving to create a society where people can choose various ways to work so that each individual can have a better vision of his or her future.1 Against this backdrop, telework, a flexible work style that is not restricted by location, has been gaining attention as a part of corporate work style reforms. In addition, in recent years, the spread of coronavirus infections has restricted people's mobility and discouraged them from coming to the office, resulting in a rapid acceleration of telework. On the other hand, there are challenges in promoting telework. In particular, in Japan, unlike in the U.S., due to the small size of houses, many disincentives are cited, such as the lack of dedicated workspaces, and the inability to concentrate due to the close proximity of family members. In addition, although it is not impossible to work in cafes, there are still inconveniences such as the lack of available seats, inability to concentrate due to noise, and inability to do highly confidential work within view of others. Companies in various industries are devising ways to solve these problems. While private workspace set-up in train stations are described in this article, there are many other initiatives being launched by companies, such as hotels and karaoke bars offering plans for telework stays. Overview of Private Workspaces In Japan, train stations are not just a place to catch a train or make a connection, but also a place where you can do many things, such as going to eating and drinking establishments, pharmacies, convenience stores, and many other commercial facilities. Private workspaces　are also a unique feature of Japan's well-developed stations, and several companies are currently producing them. CocoDesk is one such workspace, and is a joint project between Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd. and FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp. The installation of CocoDesk booths started in February 2020 and are currently underway mainly in subway stations. They are 51 inches wide, 39 inches deep, and 83 inches high, making them large enough to be used comfortably. In addition, the room is equipped with power outlets and Wi-Fi for mobile devices, and the temperature can be adjusted by the air conditioner, so you can make phone calls or prepare documents without worrying about your surroundings. Moreover, a ventilation fan is in place along with all items covered with an antibacterial coating, so even if you are wary of the coronavirus, you can use it having peace of mind. The service hours are from 7:00 to 22:00, and the fee is approximately 2.50 USD per 15 minutes, so users can freely choose the time of use according to their purposes. The above figure is reprinted and translated from the FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp website. Conclusion Post-pandemic, teleworking is expected to take root to a certain extent, and I believe it is important for the government and companies to continue to work together to create an environment that facilitates teleworking. Tokyo Metro has announced that it will continue to install CocoDesk booths in stations and will consider various initiatives to make stations more convenient and comfortable to use as a part of business and daily life in order to more closely match customers' various ways of working.2 Why don't you experience this unique service when you visit Japan? ※CocoDesk is a registered trademark or trademark of FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp. References 1.Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000148322.html 2. Tokyo Metro Co.,Ltd. press release https://www.tokyometro.jp/news/2021/210791.html Image Sources 1. Tokyo Metro Co.,Ltd 2. FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp Back to All JITTI Journals September 2021 Feature Article

Foreign Cruise Passengers in Japan Foreign Cruise Passengers in Japan  by Daisuke Takagi 1. INTRODUCTION  In recent years, the number of foreign tourists visiting Japan has rapidly increased. While most of these foreign tourists come to Japan by air travel, the number of tourists visiting Japan by cruise is increasing. This article introduces the trends of foreign tourists enjoying cruise trips in Japan. 2. THE NUMBER OF FOREIGN CRUISE PASSENGERS VISITING JAPAN The number of foreign passengers entering Japan by cruise ship was 2.153 million in 2019 (down 12.2% from the previous year). This is because the number of cruise passengers from China, which account for about 80% of cruise passengers visiting Japan, decreased to 1.74 million (down 14.5%). The Chinese cruise market has entered a phase of adjustment after a huge expansion from 2018, and the number of cruise passengers visiting China from Japan is expected to decrease due to a decline in the number of cruise ships dispatched to the Chinese market in 2019. By origin, the number of cruise passengers visiting Japan from central China, mainly from Shanghai, dropped sharply to 904,000 (down 32.4%), while those from northern China such as Tianjin came to 441,000 (down 17.6%). 395 million passengers visited from Hong Kong and other southern Chinese cities (up 21.9%), and 288,000 cruise passengers came from Taiwan (up 4.7%), both up from 2018. In addition, the number of foreign cruise passengers that embarked on Japanese ships in Japan has increased to 89,000 (up 20.3%) due to “fly and cruise operations” and the progression of the diversification of foreign cruise passengers. Fly and Cruise initiatives, which package flight and cruise plans for easy booking, have increased in popularity and use by foreign passengers boarding Japanese cruise ships (image does not reflect actual spacing between aircraft and cruise ship) 3. THE NUMBER OF CRUISE SHIP CALLS The total number of cruise ship calls to Japanese ports in 2019 decreased 2.2% from the year before to 2,867 times (1,932 foreign shipping companies and 935 Japanese shipping companies). The most calls by port are: 1st place: Naha Port, 260 times (2nd place last year: 243 times); 2nd place: Hakata Port, 229 times (1st place last year: 279 times); 3rd place: Yokohama Port, 188 times (4th place last year: 168 times). The following paragraphs explain the number of cruise ship calls operated by foreign shipping companies and Japanese shipping companies respectively. (1) Cruise ships operated by foreign shipping companies The number of calls at Japan’s ports by cruise ships operated by foreign shipping companies increased last year by 1.0% from 2018 to 1,932 times. By origin, the number of cruises departing from China was 893 times, down 10.6%, and the number of cruises departing from Taiwan was 241 times, down 2.4% from the previous year. Meanwhile the number of cruises departing from Japan increased by 20.0% in 2019 to 707 times. In terms of landings, ports to call in Kyushu have decreased, while port calls at domestic areas other than Kyushu increased. The most active ports are: 1st place: Naha Port, 251 times (2nd place last year: 236 times); 2nd place: Hakata Port, 205 times (1st place last year: 263 times); 3rd place: Nagasaki Port, 178 times (3rd place last year: 215 times). As described above, the adjustment phase of the Chinese cruise market continued in 2019, and as a result of each shipping company decreasing the number of vessels dispatched to the Chinese market, the number of calls for cruise ships departing from China decreased mainly in Kyushu. On the other hand, the number of foreign cruise ships that carry out cruises to and from Japan, mainly for Japanese and Western customers (who fly into Japan to board a cruise) has increased. As a result, the number of port calls at Japan ports other than Kyushu has been increasing, and ports to call have been diversified. In addition, comparatively speaking, for cruise ships that called by price range, defined as (1) luxury ships (over US $ 400 per person per night), (2) premium ships (over US $ 200), and (3) standard ships (over US $ 70), calls by luxury ships, mainly wealthy customers from the United States and Europe, have particularly increased at ports throughout the country. (2) Cruise ships operated by Japanese shipping companies The number of calls at Japan’s ports by cruise ships operated by Japanese shipping companies decreased 8.1% in 2019 to 935 times.  The calls by port are: 1st place: Yokohama Port, 101 times (2nd place last year: 98 times); 2nd place: Bella Vista Marina, 100 times (1st place last year: 122 times); 3rd place: Kobe Port, 68 times (3rd place last year: 70 times). This was due to a change in the frequency of calls for cruise ships traveling around the Seto Inland Sea, mainly at Bella Vista Marina. Luxury cruises, with wealthy passengers from the United States and Europe, have been increasingly called at ports in Japan 4. FUTURE PERSPECTIVE The number of foreign cruise passengers visiting Japan by month showed an increase in November 2019 for the first time in 17 months. Due to the rapidly changing nature of world events, it is hard to predict what the future holds. However, earlier this year each shipping company had plans to launch additional large cruise ships into the Chinese market after 2020. They hoped that the market would expand from 2020 onward, with increasing cruise travel to and from Japan. As the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is likely to affect the cruise market worldwide, including in Japan, the market must be monitored closely. Back to All JITTI Journals March 2020 Feature Article

JITTI Journal September 2024 Back to All JITTI Journals September 2024 Feature Article Itsukushima: Japan’s Cutting-Edge Maritime Training Vessel Shaping Future Coast Guard Officers by Daisuke Komatsu The Japan Coast Guard Academy’s newly commissioned training vessel, Itsukushima, launched this summer of 2024, marks a significant step forward in maritime training and Japan’s territorial security. It replaces the long-serving Kojima, which was well-known and loved during its world training voyages, including frequent visits to the U.S. With Itsukushima expected to follow in its predecessor’s footsteps, visiting the U.S. as part of its future training missions, it is hoped that the ship will continue to symbolize the strong Japan-U.S. maritime partnership. New Training Vessel _Itsukushima_ Image provided by: Japan Coast Guard The ship was built under Japan’s broader strategy to strengthen maritime capabilities, particularly in response to growing demands for security operations around the Senkaku Islands. Japan Coast Guard operations in these waters have increased in recent years, necessitating an expansion of training programs. The Academy has also increased student intake, with new programs aimed at university graduates, further stretching the capacity of the aging Kojima, and creating the need for a more advanced and spacious training vessel. Itsukushima, at 134 meters long and 5500 tons, is almost double the size of its predecessor Kojima, which had a gross tonnage of around 3000 tons. When comparing their gross tonnages, Itsukushima offers significantly more capacity, allowing for the training of more students and advanced equipment. This increase in size and capacity ensures that the new vessel can meet the growing demands of the Japan Coast Guard’s expanding training programs. Interior view of Itsukushima's bridge Image provided by: Japan Coast Guard A distinctive feature of Itsukushima is its dual-layer bridge system. The upper bridge is used for operational navigation, while the lower bridge is dedicated to student training. Both bridges are equipped with the same navigation instruments, allowing students to practice maneuvering a ship in real-time without interrupting the ship’s regular operations. This design significantly enhances practical training modules, enabling students to gain hands-on experience while the ship remains fully functional for official duties. Trainees undertaking their first onboard training aboard Itsukushima Image provided by: Japan Coast Guard Additionally, Itsukushima is equipped with classrooms and multipurpose rooms for student use, which are essential for conducting international exchanges and hosting receptions when the vessel visits various ports. The ship is also designed to serve in emergency response missions during natural disasters, featuring enhanced seaworthiness and long-range operational capabilities. With state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, the vessel provides realistic and practical training experiences that prepare students for real-world missions. The ship’s name, Itsukushima, derives from the famous island in Hiroshima Prefecture, home to the renowned Itsukushima Shrine, symbolizing Japan’s deep maritime traditions. Beyond its vital training missions, Itsukushima will be showcased at several ports in Japan and foreign countries to further strengthen Japan’s ties with its international allies. As Itsukushima embarks on its voyages, including planned visits to the U.S., it is poised to become a new symbol of Japan-U.S. cooperation. The Japan Coast Guard hopes for continued support and encouragement as it trains the next generation of officers. Along with another training vessel currently under construction, Itsukushima will enable the Japan Coast Guard Academy to offer enhanced training to a larger number of students, preparing them for the increasing challenges of securing Japan’s territorial waters and ensuring maritime security. The former training vessel, Kojima, entrusted its mission to Itsukushima. Image provided by: Japan Coast Guard

JITTI USA interviews photographer Keisuke Hirai, whose recent photo exhibition in Washington D.C. features the residents of Ishinomaki and their continued ability to smile after the Great East Japan Earthquake. カメラマン平井慶祐氏が伝える幸せの形 〜被災者がファインダーに笑顔を向ける日〜 インタビュアー　小松　　大祐 前書き 日本は災害大国としても知られている。 2024年1月1日という新しい一年の始まりは、マグニチュード7.6という大地震が能登半島を襲い、200名を超える死者や多くの負傷者を出したほか、震源の中心である石川県では、全壊、半壊、一部損壊を含め40,000棟を超える家屋が被害を受け、現在も多くの方々が余震の恐怖に怯えながら、不慣れで不自由な避難生活を余儀なくされている。また、本稿を読んでいただいている米国の皆様に多大なご支援をいただいた2011年3月11日の東日本大震災から、今年で13年が経とうとしている。東日本大震災による地震・津波の被災地域においては、現在までに交通インフラである鉄道、港湾、道路については全て復旧しており、今後、日本政府や自治体においては、ハード面の整備から、被災者の心のケアやコミュニティの形成といったソフト面への対策にも重点を置いて復興を進めていくとしている。そんな折、米国笹川平和財団が東日本大震災で大きな被害を受けた宮城県石巻市在住 の「平井慶祐」によ る「Recapturing Happiness」と題した写真展を在アメリカ合衆国日本国大使館文化広報センター（1150 18th Street, N.W., Suite100, Washington, DC, 20036） にて3月13日（東部日時）まで開催中だ。平井氏は、石巻市とは縁のない香川県の出身であるが、震災後、ボランティアとして石巻市に入り、以来12年に亘って同地にて生活を営んでいる写真家である。この写真展は、平井氏が住む石巻の方々が被災後に掴んだ幸せにフォーカスを当てたもので、凄惨な被災写真や美しく生まれ変わった復興後の街並みではなく、石巻市に住む一人一人の笑顔を切り取った写真が並ぶ。今般、インタビュアーを務めた私は、石巻市から100キロほど北に位置する宮城県気仙沼市の出身であり、東日本大震災の一被害家族として、震災後の復旧や復興に海上保安官として携わった立場から、平井氏と対談する機会を得ることができた。本稿では、平井氏のボランティアとしての経験や写真に写る笑顔を通して皆様に伝えたい人と人との繋がりについてご紹介したい。 右から平井さん、小松.研究員 対 話 小松 　早速ですが、アメリカのワシントンD.C.で今回の写真展を開催するに至った想いを教えていただけますか？ 平井さん 　最初のきっかけはというと、 2021年に最初に石巻でこの写真展を開催した際に、藤崎元駐米日本国大使が奥様と一緒に見にきてくださった際に、当時はコロナ禍でしたので、アメリカのどこかで、というよりも、オンラインでも発信してはどうかというお話が出たことかと思います。この話は結局立ち消えになってしまいましたが、石巻にボランティアとして「助ける側」の立場として来たのに、石 巻で多くの人と接しているうちに、石巻の方から、人と人のつながりの大切さというものを学ぶことが多く、いつの間にか「教えられる立場」に変わっていきました。共に悪戦苦闘しながらも「一緒にご近所さんとして生きていく」ことが楽しくて、現在まで12年に亘って石巻に住んでいるわけですが、このような感覚を遠くの人にも知って欲しいと気持ちが写真を撮っているうちに大きくなって、今回の開催に至りました。ただ、どのようにしたら伝わるのか、伝え方という意味で試行錯誤いたしました。 小松 　伝え方ということですが、東日本大震災の写真や映像は、被害の甚大さを伝えるようなものが多いのかなと思います。ところが、今回の写真展のテーマである「Recapturing Happiness」、幸福を取り戻すという視点で撮られた写真は、そういった見る人にとっては怖いと感じるよう な写真ではなくて、どれも素敵な笑顔をした人の写真ばかりで大変驚きました。なぜ、このような写真を撮ろうと思ったのか、また、どのようにしてこのような写真を撮ることができたのか教えてください。 平井さん 　当初、被災地と呼ばれる石巻に行こうと思ったモチベーションは、怖いもの見たさというのもあったし、1000年に一度と呼ばれた災害から、生き残った被災地の人が、どのように生きていくのかというドキュメンタリーを間近で見たい、めっちゃへこんだ後に、人って、街って、どうやって復活していくんだろうっていうことへの関心が根源的にあったんだと思います。そこにきっと学びがあるはずで、そこを写真に収め、見てくれた被災地以外の人たちのパワーをお金やボランティア活動として被災地に集めたいという気持ちがあったのかと思います。当時は、被災者の顔を写してはいけないというような風潮があったのも事実です。ただ、私はボランティア活動を通して、石巻の方と仲良くなって、そしてちゃんと写真を撮ることに納得してもらって写真を撮り続けて来ました。報道機関の方々は震災の被害状況を伝えるという役割を担ってくれていたので、私は人にフォーカスを当てた写真を撮ることができたのかもしれません。結局のところ、その人が置かれた場所や立場で、やれることを一生懸命にやるということが大切だと思います。今回の展示は震災から10年経ったあと、11年目に「いつ？」「どこで？」「誰と撮りたい？」と問いかけながら、特別な記念写真を残そうと1年間かけて撮影させて貰いました。ニュース性の無い、ごく普通の日々の中の方が、幸福ってなんだろう？ということに気付けるような気がしたからです。 出典: 平井慶祐 小松 　そのようにして撮り溜めた写真を、ワシントンD.C.で展示することの狙いを教えてください。 平井さん 　写真の中に、アメリカだったり、ヨーロッパだったり、アジア、中東の人であっても伝わるものがあるんじゃないか、確信はないけれど、写っている人たちの想いに触れて、見た人が感じた印象や感想を受け取ることができたら、私自身も文化や地域、抱えている問題の違いというものが学べるのではないか、それでなるほどね、って共通理解が生まれるのでは無いかと思ったわけです。これは笑い話なのですが、東日本大震災からちょうど１年というタイミングで、ピースボートに乗船させてもらい、寄港した多くの国で震災の写真を展示させてもらいました。サウジアラビアでは入港はできなかったのですが、船の方にサウジアラビアの方々が料理を持って来てくれて、パーティを開いてくれました。その時に開催した写真展で、女川のおばあちゃんがほっかむりをして瓦礫を片付けている写真を見たサウジアラビアの方が、日本にもムスリムの方がいるんだね、ムスリムの同胞が心配だわ、という話がありました。そのおばあちゃんはムスリムではないのですが、こんな受け止め方が面白いな、こんなに違うんだ、あるいは写真から共通項を見つけたり、寄り添いたくなるような気持ち、こんな小さな勘違いすら会話のキッカケになって、サウジアラビアの人と仲良くなれるきっかけになるじゃないかなと感じました。 小松 　今回のワシントンD.C.での写真展でも、写真を通してアメリカの人たちと仲良くなる、写真から石巻や日本の人との共通項を見つけてもらうという狙いがあるということでしょうか。 平井さん 　それはすごくあると思います。それは石巻の人からすると、別の世界だと思っていたワシントンD.C.の人が、写真や写真のバックストーリーから、同じような経験や気持ちを抱いてくれるとしたら、石巻の人にとっても、ワシントンD.C.の人にとっても、人と人とが繋がり合うきっかけを与えてくれるんじゃないかなって思います。そして、この写真展を開催していただいた感想や私が見聞きしたことを石巻で一緒に写真集を作ってくれた仲間や写真に写っている方に伝えたら、会っていなくても、ワシントンD.C.の人を身近に感じてくれんじゃないか、私の写真がワシントンD.C.で飾られたのよ！っていう話を聞いた人が、それなんのこと？って聞けば、さらに人と人とのつながりが生まれるんじゃないかなって。 出典: 平井慶祐 小松　 今回のワシントンD.C.での開催を一つのマイルストーンとして捉えた時、今後、アメリカの別の地域や他の国で同様の写真展を開催したいというモチベーションは得られましたか。 平井さん 　今回の展示に当たり、写真のバックグラウンドの英訳や、どう見せたらいいかということを一緒に考えてくれた方がいて、実際に見てくれた方の感想を聞いても、この形であれば、他の言語や他の地域でも展示として成立するのではないかと今回の展示で改めて思いました。 小松 　今回展示されている写真からも、平井さんが石巻の方から学んだという「人と人との繋がり」というもの感じました。日本では新年早々、能登半島地震が発生しましたが、この人と人の繋がりが災害時において、どのように活かされるのか教えてください。 平井さん　 災害支援の際によく言われることですが、支援のミスマッチをある程度解消できるのではないかと思います。もちろん、行政の方も過去の災害事例の検証から、本当に被災者が必要とする支援物資について整理されていると思いますが、地方に行けば行くほど、行政に対する遠慮から、自分が必要としているものを伝えないという傾向があって、これが支援のミスマッチの原因の一つになっているのかなと思います。ですが、現地に入ったボランティアであれば、現地の方のお手伝いをしているうちに、必要としているものに気づいたり、もっと気軽に聞き出すことができるのではないでしょうか。また、被災した人同士でも、人と人とのつながりがあれば、お互いに足りていない物資を融通し合って、発災直後の急場を凌ぐことができるかもしれません。例えばですが、「私は米は持っているけどお米を炊く水がない。」という方が、「私は水は持っているけど、食べるお米がない。」という方と繋がれば、その日、温かいご飯が食べられるわけです。私は、人と人との繋がりが希薄だと言われている首都圏で、災害が起きた時、このような助け合いができるだろうか、また、隣にどんな人が住んでいるのか分からないような団地で、隣の部屋に住んでいる老人が箪笥の下敷きになっていても、誰も気づいてあげられないという状況が生まれてしまうのではないか、ということを懸念しています。 小松 　なるほど。行政が拾い上げ辛い情報の収集や、目が届きにくいような場所への支援などに活かされるということですね。確かに東日本大震災の時は、被災地の人から本当に必要な支援物資の情報を得ることに苦労したのを覚えています。地方の方は本当に困っていても、なかなか行政に対して必要とするものを遠慮して伝えられなかったり、耐えようとする方が多いように感じました。その点、ボランティアとして日々、被災地の方と顔の見える関係を構築されていれば、そういった情報が得やすくなるというのは非常に納得できます。情報という観点では、伝え方も大切かと思います。能登半島沖地震では、NHKのアナウンサーによる鬼気迫る非難の呼びかけがありましたが、行政側としても、命を守る情報をしっかりと届けられるように、より簡単な言葉で危険が迫っていることをお伝えしたり、視覚的にも工夫するようになりました。例えばですが、気象庁では数字や、紫や赤など色を使って、危険を大きさを伝えるようになりました。また、津波警報に関しては、これまでのテレビやラジオ、携帯電話、サイレンといった方法に加えて、「津波フラッグ」という赤と白の市松模様の旗を海岸にいるライフセーバーの方が降ったり、遠くからも目立つ背の高い建物に掲げることで、聴覚に障害をお持ちの方や、波音や風で音が聞き取りにくい遊泳中の方、電源が喪失してテレビ等で情報が伝えられない場合のアナログな伝達手段として用いるようになりました。 平井さん 　災害警報が分かりやすい言葉や視覚的な情報と組み合わさることで、より効果的な非難が促されると思います。「津波フラッグ」については知りませんでしたが、コミュニティの中で影響力の強い方が、人と人との繋がりを通して周知していくことで、行政の取り組みが現地の人にも広がりやすくなると思います。 出典: 国士交通省 気象庁 小松 　人と人との繋がりの大切さですね。ボランティア活動等を通して得られたご経験や知見から、災害への備えとして、一人一人ができることは何でしょうか？ 平井さん 　実際に災害が起きたことを想定することが大切なのではないでしょうか。災害への備えから防災セットを購入している方は増えて来ていると思いますが、その防災セットを買っても実際に使ってみたという人は少ないように感じます。これと同じように、災害時の避難ルートは知っていても、実際に歩いてみたという人も少ないのではないでしょうか。防災セットを開けて、それを使ってみれば、万一の時に使い方が分からずに困るということもなくなりますし、避難ルートを歩いてみれば、息が上がってしまったり、避難時に詰まってしまう坂道ということに気づくかもしれません。小学校等での避難訓練も校庭に出て点呼をして終わりではなく、避難ルートを通って高台まで避難するところまでやらないと、いざという時に、先生も子供も戸惑ってしまうと思います。 小松 　「経験は最良の教師である」という諺そのものですね。能登半島地震から1月が経ちました。現地では現在も不自由な生活をされている方が多くいらっしゃいますが、現在、平井さんが懸念していることは何でしょうか。 平井さん 　今一番懸念していることは、災害関連死ですね。対応が追いつかない側面はもちろんありますが、冷えたお弁当ばかり食べていては栄養面の偏りから、体調を崩したり、既往症が悪化するなど、避難生活が長期化することによって生じる健康被害を懸念しています。これを防ぐためには、炊き出しなどによる具沢山のお汁など、温かい食べ物が継続的に提供される環境が大切だと思います。 小松 　石川県は、災害関連死を防ぎ、当面の落ち着いた生活環境を確保するために、被災地以外の避難所へ移るよう二次避難を進めていますが、なかなか進んでいないとの報道もあります。 平井さん 　東日本大震災の時もそうでしたが、行政が場所だけ提供しても人は動かないんですよね。一旦、気持的に冷静になる時間も必要でしょうし、住み慣れた土地を離れて隣近所の知り合いもいない場所にいくのは不安だという気持ちも理解できます。またもう一度、元の場所に帰れるという前提がなければなかなか二次避難しようという気持ちにはなりにくいと思います。日本人の国民性もあると思いますが、まだ周りにも二次避難している人が少ないのも影響していると思います。ここでも、コミュニティ単位で避難するであるとか、影響力のある人が移動したり、ご近所さん同士で地道に声をかけることによって、事態が変わることもあるかもしれません。 小松 　改めて人と人との繋がりの大切さというものがわかりました。最後に、写真展に来られた方にお伝えしたいことを教えてください。 平井さん 　写真だけでは、こうした災害は、どこか遠くの知らない人の話と受け止められるかもしれないというのは、ある程度仕方ないかなとは思っているんですが、じっくりエピソードも読んでもらって、自分と置き換えてみて欲しいな。これらのエピソードは、全くニュース性のあるものではないのですが、何か自分にも当てはまるな、一緒だなって感覚を持っていただければ、それが一番だなと思います。だって被災者も普通の人間ですから。そして、その中から自分にとっての「幸福のかけら」として受け取って、小さなアクションを起こしてもらえたら嬉しいと思います。例えば疎遠になっている両親に電話をしてみるとか、普段言えないような感謝の気持ちとかを伝えるとか、結構身近で簡単にすぐできることってあると思うんですよね。そこからまた幸福を感じていただけたら嬉しいです。 あ とがき 東日本大震災から13年が経とうとしている。毎年3月11日が来るたびに、東日本大震災で家族や大切な人を失った人、仕事を失った人、故郷から離れた土地で寂しく暮らす人、こうした人たちが悲しい顔で悲しい災害のことについて話している様子がテレビに映る。被災した人たちは、いつまで悲しい人たちでいなければいけないのだろうか。被災した人たちも、友人と楽しい時間を過ごしたり、新しい家族を作ったり、日々の何気ない幸せをテレビで話しても良いはずである。私自身、日本で働いているときもDCに来てからも、会話の最中に故郷の話に及んだ際には、必ずと言っていいほど「震災は大変でしたね。」と声をかけられる。その度に震災直後の悲惨な状況を鎮痛な面持ちで説明してきた。今回の平井氏の写真展に足を運び、そうした顔をする必要がないということに気づき、救われた思いがした。 そして、平井氏の写真や言葉から感じた、「人と人との繋がり」は、災害への備えとして強靭な交通インフラを整備する上での重要な意味を持っていることにも気づいた。私は、国土交通大臣室勤務時に出席した地方道路の開通式典で、工事を担当した者が、道路は「ヒト、モノ、そして命を繋ぐ道」であると話していたことを覚えている。大きな幹線道路が少ない石川県で発生した能登半島地震では、まさに救助活動や支援物資の輸送、救急搬送が妨げられ、地方の交通インフラの脆弱性が浮き彫りになった。そして、東日本大震災の教訓は活かされているものの、被災地のニーズとのミスマッチも生じている。このミスマッチを解消する鍵は人と人との繋がり、交流である。交 流は交通インフラが整って、人と人が会うことによって生まれる。交通インフラの強靭化は、スムーズな救援・復旧・支援活動が可能にするだけでなく、そこに住む人がいち早く幸せを掴み直すためにも重要な政策であると思いを強くした。 BIO: Keisuke Hirai ひらい けいすけ 平井慶祐 写真家/映像制作 1979年 香川県まんのう町生まれ 宮城県石巻市渡波在住 「人生とまるごと関わる」スタイルで人間の写真を撮らせてもらい続けるフリーの写真家。カナダ遊学中に好きな子の一言で写真教室に通い始め現在 に至る。負けず嫌いで無類のジジババッ子。心と心の距離が限りなくゼロに近い 「人間の写真」 を人間として撮らせてもらい続けたい。カンボジア、ネ パール、内モンゴル、南アフリカ、どこに行っても人間と人間の関係が撮影よりも優先してしまう持ち前のおせっかいな性格で、地雷撤 去、植林活動、 地域活性化、国際支援や国際交流といった活動に首を突っ込む。「コミュニケーションツールとしての写真」を掲げ、撮影、展示、イベント企画、写真ワー クショップ等を全国で開催。3.11に東日本大震災が起こり、4月から災害ボランティアNPOの記録広報係として被災地で活動。その後石巻に移住し、 避難所で出会った海苔漁師との出会いがキッカケで現在は船酔いしない船上カメラマンとして水産業の撮影、動画制作などを行っている。 書　籍 2007年 1st写真集『太陽みたいな笑顔の写真をいっぱい撮って太陽みたいな笑顔をもっともっと』出版 (日本自費出版文化賞グラフィックス部門入選) 2010年 2nd写真集「YELL TO YOU エール TO キミ~エールを贈る写真集~』出版 写真展 2009年 『-Captur ed Spirits of Cambodia-』開催。(@カンボジア王立プノンペン大学内) 2011年 被災地の写真展『LIFE is still wonderful WORLD is still beautiful.』ニューヨーク) 2017年 『つづく展』石巻に根っこの生えた写真家たちの写真展を石ノ森萬画館にて開催 『つづく展2』石巻に根っこの生えた写真家たちの写真展 Reborn-Art Festival　Collaboration Project を石巻市市内3カ所で開催。 (荻浜小学校展示、仙石線トレインミュージアム、絆の駅NEWSEE) また、石巻日日新聞にて号外写真集を製作 2021年 写真展『10年の幸福写真』を石巻市指定文化財旧観慶丸商店にて開催

The two-day GAD Americas conference was held in Miami, Florida from June 1st to 2nd, 2023. The event was hosted by Aviation Week Network, a New York-based global think tank and information dissemination company in the aerospace, defense and aviation industries. Business leaders from aviation authorities, airport operators, banks and funds were invited to attend. In this paper, I will select and report on the event programs that I found to be particularly useful, with a focus on the sessions portion of the event. < Back Civil Aviation July 2024 GAD Americas 2023 Participation Report By Tetsuhiro Hagiwara The two-day GAD Americas conference was held in Miami, Florida from June 1st to 2nd, 2023. The event was hosted by Aviation Week Network, a New York-based global think tank and information dissemination company in the aerospace, defense and aviation industries. Business leaders from aviation authorities, airport operators, banks and funds were invited to attend. In this paper, I will select and report on the event programs that I found to be particularly useful, with a focus on the sessions portion of the event. Download the Report

JITTI Journal January 2024 Back to All JITTI Journals January 2024 Feature Article Japan's Strategic Countermeasures against the Pirates of the Seas By Daisuke Komatsu Towards the end of 2023 and the beginning of 2024, a series of piracy incidents, including the capture of cargo ships and tankers, occurred in the waters around the Gulf of Aden, near Yemen and Somalia. Additionally, there has been an increase in pirate attacks in Southeast Asian waters in recent years, posing significant threats to the safety of nearby vessels and raising major concerns for economic security. In light of this background, this journal article aims to elucidate Japan's counter-piracy measures. Tracing back the history of piracy in Japan, references to pirates can be found as early as the latter half of the 5th century in the "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan). Notably, during the late 15th century and the Sengoku period (Warring States period), pirate groups known as the "Murakami KAIZOKU,” a group functioning both as pirates and a naval force, were frequently active in the Seto Inland Sea. In more contemporary times, incidents such as the 1999 attack on the Arlanda Rainbow, which was en route from Indonesia to Japan, and the 2005 attack on the Japanese-flagged ocean-going tugboat Idaten in the northwestern part of the Strait of Malacca, have occurred. Globally, piracy has been a longstanding maritime security threat throughout history, evident from occurrences in the Roman Empire era, the Vikings in the 8th century, privateers during the Age of Discovery, the Barbary pirates in North Africa, and pirates in the Caribbean and Indian Oceans. Revisiting the definition of piracy, according to Article 101 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, piracy consists of: (a) Any illegal acts of violence, detention, or depredation for private ends by the crew or passengers of a private ship or aircraft against: (i) Another ship or aircraft, or persons or property on board in the high seas; (ii) A ship, aircraft, persons or property in a place outside the jurisdiction of any state. (b) Voluntary participation in the operation of a ship or aircraft with knowledge that it is a pirate ship or aircraft. (c) Incitement or intentional facilitation of acts defined in subparagraph (a) or (b). Article 105 of the same convention outlines that any state may seize a pirate ship or aircraft, or a ship taken by piracy and under the control of pirates, and arrest the persons and seize the property on board in the high seas or any other place outside the jurisdiction of any state. The courts of the state which carried out the seizure may decide upon the penalties to be imposed, and, with due regard to the rights of bona fide third parties, may determine the action to be taken with respect to the ship, aircraft, or property. In essence, piracy is robbery conducted on the high seas and is considered a universal enemy against which any state may act. Pirate acts occurring within territorial waters of coastal states, as opposed to the high seas, are defined as armed robbery at sea. Considering the above, an overview of Japan's counter-piracy measures is provided. As an island nation with low food and energy self-sufficiency rates, Japan relies heavily on maritime transport routes for 99.5% of its imported resources essential for maintaining economic activities and social life. Thus, protecting merchant vessels from piracy is a lifeline for the country. Created by the author using freely available resources. Direct enforcement in pirate-infested waters like the Malacca and Singapore Straits was not feasible for Japan due to territorial limitations. Consequently, the Japan Coast Guard led the adoption of the "Asian Anti-Piracy Challenges 2000" at this conference, proposing measures such as mutual visits of patrol ships, joint training exercises, continuous expert meetings, and conducting seminars on maritime crime control. Initiatives also included accepting students for maritime crime seminars at the Japan Coast Guard Academy and JICA, dispatching long-term JICA experts, and supporting capacity building through joint training with coastal countries. These efforts led to a significant reduction in piracy incidents in Southeast Asia after 2004. However, piracy in Somalia, particularly around the Gulf of Aden, surged post-2007. A notable incident in February 2007 involved the hijacking of the MV Rozen, a cargo ship chartered by the World Food Programme for humanitarian aid to Somalia, leading to the abduction of 12 crew members. This incident underscored the international community's need to collaborate in combating piracy in the region. Created by the author using data sourced from the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reports. In contrast to the pirates in Southeast Asia, those operating in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia are characterized by their heavy armament, organized operations, and operations in a broad maritime area far from land. Notably, they often kidnap entire crews and ships, demanding ransoms, rather than just looting goods or cargoes. Since 1991, Somalia has been in a state of anarchy, lacking a functional government capable of combating piracy, differentiating it from the situation in Southeast Asia. With the passing of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions in 2008, the CTF151 (Combat Task Force) fleet, predominantly comprising EU and NATO member states, was dispatched to protect ships in these waters, leading to an increase in the forceful suppression of pirates. The United States also joined the efforts with its Navy and Coast Guard as part of the combined maritime task force. Recognizing that about 10% of the vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden annually are Japan-related, and to fulfill its role as a responsible nation in the United Nations, Japan acknowledged the importance of counter-piracy measures in the region. The Japan Coast Guard, tasked with protecting lives and property from piracy and maintaining security, faced challenges in collaborating with CTF151 and exercising jurisdiction over maritime crimes in international waters. However, dispatching the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) was considered. Under the Self-Defense Forces Law Article 82, JMSDF's maritime security operations are primarily limited to protecting Japanese lives or property, presenting challenges in guarding non-Japanese vessels like those protected by CTF151. To address these challenges, Japan legislated the Anti-Piracy Measures Law in June 2009. This law enabled the Japan Coast Guard to exercise jurisdiction over piracy, considered a crime in international waters, and allowed JMSDF escort vessels to guard foreign-flagged ships in coordination with CTF151. A significant feature of this law is that it defined piracy as a crime within Japan's legal system for the first time, allowing for the protection of not just Japanese vessels but also foreign ships. The law also permitted preventive actions against piracy, such as firing warning shots when pirates approached civilian vessels. This legislation marked a milestone in asserting jurisdiction in international waters, a domain typically governed by the principle of flag state jurisdiction. JMSDF has since been conducting escort operations and surveillance activities, regardless of the ships' nationality, based on their requests in the Gulf of Aden, with significant collaboration from the Japan Coast Guard. Coast Guard officers, deployed on JMSDF ships, play a crucial role in enforcing the Anti-Piracy Measures Law. This joint operation ensures effective law enforcement and escort operations. From 2013, Japan has participated in CTF151, further intensifying its anti-piracy measures. These efforts have significantly reduced piracy incidents around Somalia. Japan continues to support the enhancement of maritime security capabilities in Somalia and neighboring countries and aims for the fundamental resolution of the piracy issue, contributing to the reconstruction and stabilization of Somalia. Moreover, some analysts suggest that the piracy incidents mentioned earlier might be linked to 2023 Israel-Hamas War, , underscoring the necessity for continued international cooperation and efforts to address the root causes of piracy for ensuring maritime security in the region.

JITTI Journal Cultural Article November 2024 Back to All JITTI Journals November 2024 Cultural Article Christmas in Japan By Suzannah Nevas When I lived in Japan over a decade ago, I recall my State-side parents being surprised to learn that Christmas was celebrated in Japan. “But Christmas is a Christian Holiday,” my mom said. “Aren’t most Japanese people Shinto or Buddhist?” It’s true, according to Pew Research data from 2010, only 1.6% of Japanese people identify as Christian. But for the most part, Christmas is celebrated as a secular holiday in Japan. In fact, I told my mom to think of it as switching between American Christmas and American New Year’s. In the U.S., and many countries in the West, Christmas is a family holiday with religious origins and customs. In contrast, New Year’s Eve is not so much a family affair- young people will get dressed up and go out with their friends or romantic partners, perhaps anticipating a romantic midnight countdown kiss. In Japan, New Year’s is a holiday when people return to their family homes and visit the local shrine together for the first time in the new year. Christmas, however, is not associated with family or religion, but is instead imbued with connotations and expectations of romance. Christmas Eve in Japan is a bit like Valentine’s Day in the U.S. If you find yourself in Japan this Christmas, here are the key elements for celebrating like the locals: Go on a date- preferable out to a popular urban center. Extra points if your outfits are coordinated or festive themed! Major cities may have European style Christmas markets, and many restaurants will have special menus, or couple set courses for the special day. Go see an Illumination (holiday light display). These get more elaborate and spectacular each year and often feature special photo-op displays. Here is a list of Japan-Guide.com ’s 2024 Illumination locations by city. I personally recommend the Kobe Luminarie which will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this winter, though it technically doesn’t begin until well after Christmas is over. KOBE Luminarie 2007 by 5th Luna (Copyrighted under CC BY-NC 2.0 ) Eat Cake. It isn’t Christmas in Japan without a Christmas Cake! Japanese Christmas cake is usually some version of strawberry shortcake- layers of sponge cake, whipped cream and strawberries. Either rolled or round, these beautiful, picturesque cakes tend to be cute and small compared to an American-sized cake- because they’re often meant for serving just 2! Pretty much anywhere that sells cakes will have these but they tend to sell out quickly. Department store patisseries will display their Christmas cake options weeks in advance so you can pre-order if you know where you’ll be. Tokyu Department Store 2013 Christmas Cake Catalogue (via this site ) Exchange gifts. While the exchanging of presents between koibito (lovers) is a far cry from the piles of wrapped boxes in stockings and under living-room Christmas trees in America, many couples do get each other a gift to open together on Christmas Eve. Don’t fret- there will be LOTS of gift ideas on display at every shop you see. Now don’t despair if you find yourself single in Japan around Christmas time. First of all- plenty of venues offer singles mixers to try and cash in on all the people not already paired off. Furthermore, pretty much everything listed above can be enjoyed just as much with your friends instead of a lover. One Japanese Christmas custom that really doesn’t have anything to do with romance is eating Kentucky-fried chicken! Thanks to an incredibly effective and enduring ad campaign by KFC in the 1970s, a bucket of fried chicken is about as iconic a holiday image in Japan as a Santa hat! In fact- you’ll often find both together! If you make it to Japan this winter, I hope you will enjoy some of these modern Xmas traditions! KFC Christmas Advertisement (via this site ) Sources https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/feature/religious-composition-by-country-2010-2050/ https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2304.html https://www.feel-kobe.jp/kobe_luminarie/eng/ https://www.jrpass.com/blog/do-people-celebrate-christmas-in-japan

The Current Use of Metropolitan Airports during the First Summer Vacation after the COVID Pandemic and the Latest Initiatives at These Airports < Back Dear Friends of JITTI USA, My name is Kazuya Fukuhara. I have been appointed as a Senior Representative of JITTI USA since mid-July this year. I would like to thank you all for your continued understanding and support of JITTI USA's activities. Today, I would like to briefly introduce myself, and I hope this will help you to become familiar with and interested in JITTI USA's activities. Before arriving at JITTI USA, I worked for the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). At the MLIT, I have worked on policy and regulatory development in a wide range of fields, including aviation, housing, roads, and maritime security. I was also seconded to the Tourism Division of Kyoto City Office for three years, where I planned strategies about inbound tourism and over-tourism measures. Most recently, I was assigned to the Japan Coast Guard (JCG), where I was involved in policy compilation for the entire JCG and correspondence with the Diet. As the global security environment becomes increasingly severe, JCG is playing an increasingly important role in the security field. I was deeply involved in the discussions that set the direction for the future of the JCG, including the formulation of the policy for strengthening coast guard capabilities, taking into account the discussions on the National Security Strategy compiled at the end of last year. I myself am interested in international work and have been involved in policy formulation for infrastructure exports and other projects in the international department of MLIT, as well as having had the opportunity to study public policy at the University of Chicago. So, I am very grateful for the opportunity to work at JITTI USA. Although JITTI USA is a small organization, I am responsible for its overall management, as well as planning and coordinating events such as symposiums and conducting research in areas such as aviation. I am learning every day about the differences in overseas transportation systems that arise from background circumstances such as history, culture, geography, and religion in other countries, and I find it very interesting to work in this field. In my personal life, I currently live with my wife and three-year-old son. My wife and I have lived in Chicago before, but this is my son's first time living abroad. Sometimes it pains me to hear my son says that he wants to go back to Japan, but recently he has been saying this less and less, and he seems to be getting used to life here. The parks here have a wide variety of playground equipment, which my son likes very much, and it is becoming a habit for him to visit a new park every weekend. If you see us at the park, please feel free to contact us. Last but not least, I would very much appreciate your continued support for JITTI's activities. I would also be happy to exchange ideas and opinions with you personally and with everyone who reads this journal. Sincerely, Kazuya Fukuhara