Poll Finds Japanese See Foreign Tourism A Boom To Economy

Above, Shibuya Crossing. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A recent government poll of Japanese citizens have found that a majority believe that increased tourism will be a boom to the economy. However, some see increases in "culture clashes" as a result of higher numbers of foreign tourists.

According to the Japan Times:

A government opinion poll showed Thursday that 65.4 percent of people expect benefits for the economy from rising numbers of foreign tourists. 

Fifty percent said they thought regional economies would benefit, while 46.3 percent said they expect it will contribute to mutual understanding between Japanese and foreigners. Multiple answers were allowed. 

The Cabinet Office survey was conducted as part of the government’s efforts to make Japan what it calls a “tourism-oriented” nation.

 25.5% of those polled cited a culture clash.

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