Can influencers boost Japan’s tourism through the Gulf Cooperation Council?

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) in Dubai recently orchestrated a pioneering influencer campaign, specifically targeting audiences from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This initiative marked the first-ever campaign focused on GCC influencers, aiming to spark interest in Japan as a travel destination among the Gulf region’s populace. The campaign’s success could herald a new era of tourism ties between Japan and the GCC.

Six influencers from the GCC embarked on an immersive journey through Japan, traversing two carefully curated routes. The “Golden Route,” ideal for families experiencing Japan for the first time, showcased the country’s quintessential sights, spanning Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Kyoto, and Osaka. Meanwhile, the “Kansai Route” offered a deeper dive into Japan’s natural beauty and local community interactions for more seasoned travelers, covering Mie, Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Participants on the Golden Route were treated to private tours of Tokyo’s famed Senso-ji Temple and a captivating Shamisen performance, showcasing Japan’s rich blend of traditional and contemporary cultural facets. Their accommodations, such as Hotel Mitsui Kyoto, epitomized this fusion of the old and new, enhancing their understanding of Japan’s diverse tourism appeal, especially its culinary delights. These experiences allowed them to delve into the essence of Japanese culture and spirituality.

The Kansai Route influencers enjoyed a different facet of Japan’s allure. They stayed at COVA KAKUDA, a luxury villa in a repurposed pearl cultivation facility, offering breathtaking views of Ago Bay. Their journey included unique experiences like dining with Ama divers in a seaside hut and a private tour by a monk at the serene Hasedera Temple. This route emphasized Japan’s spiritual depth and facilitated meaningful connections with the local communities. Influencers noted cultural parallels between Japanese and Arab customs, such as respect for guests and elders and the importance of etiquette, further enriching their travel experience.

Both groups shared their distinct Japanese experiences through social media, capturing the essence of Japan’s tourism attractions. Their posts highlighted Japan’s multifaceted tourism scene, from its spiritual traditions to its natural landscapes, potentially igniting interest among the GCC audience. This innovative influencer campaign by JNTO Dubai could significantly influence tourism flows from the GCC to Japan, offering new perspectives and deepening cultural understanding between these regions.

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