Major Misconceptions Among Foreign Tourists: Understanding and Preserving Japanese Traditional Crafts

On June 28, 2024, the Japan Tourism Agency released the “Survey on the Environment for Accepting Foreign Tourists in Japan.” The survey revealed a surprisingly optimistic perception of “traditional crafts” among foreign tourists, which was quite an eye-opener for me. It became clear that foreign tourists were not aware of the critical situation surrounding Japan’s traditional crafts. I sincerely hope that foreign tourists will correctly understand this crisis and lend their support to preserving these cultural treasures.

Survey Overview on Sustainable Tourism

The survey was conducted from November 2023 to February 2024 and received 4,012 responses. It focused on issues encountered by foreign tourists during their travels and their interest in sustainable tourism.

In the survey, interest in sustainable tourism was high, with 68% of respondents stating that they chose Japan as a travel destination because they prioritized the ability to practice sustainable tourism. Additionally, reasons for considering Japan suitable for sustainable tourism included “Proper conservation of the natural environment and animal protection” (53%) and “Well-preserved cultural heritage and traditional crafts” (51%). Among Western tourists, “Well-preserved cultural heritage and traditional crafts” was the top response at 59%.

Source: Japan Tourism Agency

Areas for Improvement in Sustainable Tourism

When it comes to areas in which Japan should improve to become a sustainable tourism destination, cleanliness was highly rated, with “Lack of efforts for traveler safety from disasters and infections” being the lowest concern at 5%. However, “Cultural heritage and traditional crafts are not well-preserved” was the second lowest concern at 6%.

Source: Japan Tourism Agency

This indicates that foreign tourists are entirely unaware of the critical situation surrounding “Cultural heritage and traditional crafts” and are overly optimistic about it. As I commented in a previous blog, the market for Japan’s traditional crafts continues to shrink, and their survival is threatened by issues such as a shortage of successors and materials.

Source: Japan Traditional Craft Promotion Association

Correctly Understanding and Preserving Japanese Traditional Crafts

I sincerely hope that foreign tourists will correctly understand the critical situation of traditional crafts and lend their support to their preservation. Particularly with the recent yen depreciation, the purchasing power of foreign tourists has significantly increased, allowing them to make a substantial impact on preserving Japanese traditional crafts.

First, please understand the critical situation of traditional crafts accurately. Then, by purchasing traditional crafts or participating in craft-making experiences at workshops, you can help protect these valuable cultural assets.

Traditional crafts can be purchased at various shops, and many workshops offer craft-making experiences that directly support the craftsmen (artisans). Participating in these experiences not only provides financial support but also allows tourists to take home their handmade traditional crafts as souvenirs.

Our company also offers traditional craft-making experiences such as “Ukiyo-e (Edo woodblock prints)” and “Edo Some Komon.” Please join us for a craft-making experience and help preserve and sustain traditional crafts.

By understanding and addressing these misconceptions, foreign tourists can play a significant role in preserving Japan’s rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts for future generations.