Quake-hit Japanese city Wajima struggles to boost tourism

Thursday, January 4, 2024

Japan struggling to boost tourism after grappling with the dual challenges of a devastating earthquake and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, faces a setback in Wajima city.

The picturesque seaside town, known for its fisheries, lacquerware, and vibrant markets, had just started to see a recovery in tourism when a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck on New Year’s Day—the strongest in Japan in 13 years.

Hotel chef Makoto Wakabayashi, who anticipated a banner year for Wajima’s tourism, now confronts the aftermath of the quake. The disaster claimed dozens of lives and left the city in disarray, hampering rescue efforts and impeding aid delivery due to buckled roads.

Among the severely damaged structures is the renowned Hotel Koshuen, where Wakabayashi is employed. The seaside hotel, a significant accommodation center in Wajima, suffered extensive damage, particularly on the upper floors, as the quake’s force moved through the building.

“It’s absolutely bad,” laments Wakabayashi, expressing concerns about the potential long-term impact on tourism. The hotel, known for its hot spring baths with ocean views, faces a challenging road to recovery, with estimates suggesting it may take six months to a year for full refurbishment.

Wajima’s recovery is further complicated by a massive fire that erupted during the earthquake, engulfing a major tourist center. The city’s famed “Asaichi” morning market, a historic shopping district with over 200 stalls selling seafood, snacks, and crafts, lies in ruins. The market, a significant draw for domestic visitors, suffered extensive damage just as the crab season was set to commence.

Wakabayashi, currently housed in an evacuation center, reflects on the resilience of Wajima’s residents who lost their homes. The earthquake, coupled with the pandemic’s economic impact, raises concerns about the ability of local businesses, including hotels, to retain their employees during the recovery phase.

As Japan had been making strides in reviving tourism with the easing of infection controls and a weakened yen attracting international visitors, the setback in Wajima underscores the fragility of the industry. The timing of the disaster, as the region was poised for a tourism revival, exacerbates the challenges faced by Wajima and its residents.

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