Earthquake disrupts tourism across southwest Japan, even in areas left unscathed
While recovery efforts are gradually moving forward across Kumamoto Prefecture after the region was struck by a strong temblor on July 28, the local t
On July 28, a strong earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in southwestern Japan, causing widespread damage and disruption to the region's tourism industry. Despite being unscathed, areas such as Oita and Miyazaki prefectures are experiencing declines in traveler numbers, even as recovery efforts are underway across Kumamoto. August, usually a peak season, has seen a significant drop in tourist arrivals, with foreign visitors accounting for about one-third of the usual level.
The Aso region, home to one of the world's largest calderas, has seen a 50% decline in visitors compared to typical yearly levels. Unrestored infrastructure, including suspended Shinkansen bullet train services and traffic restrictions on the Kyushu Expressway, have further complicated travel across multiple prefectures. Hotel reservation cancellations have affected about 408,500 person-nights, equivalent to nearly 2.4 days of average daily occupancy in the region, according to a survey.
Some businesses are offering discounted rates to attract customers, but industry experts believe the Kyushu support discount program, set to begin this fall, will not be enough to fully restore the tourism sector.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
