Balancing Tourism and Safety: otaru’s Proactive Measures During Chinese New Year
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Otaru, a coastal city in Hokkaido, has taken significant steps to manage the anticipated surge of tourists during the Chinese New Year holiday season. In response to concerns over tourist behavior, the city has deployed multilingual security guards around the iconic funamizaka slope, a location made famous by the 1995 Japanese film Love Letter. These measures, including increased police patrols, aim to ensure public safety and local convenience while preserving Otaru’s cinematic charm. To delve deeper into these initiatives, we spoke with Dr.Akiko Tanaka, a tourism management expert and professor at Hokkaido University.
Understanding Otaru’s Challenges
Senior Editor: Dr. Tanaka, what prompted Otaru to take these measures, especially during the Chinese New Year season?
Dr. Akiko tanaka: Otaru has long been a popular destination for tourists, particularly those drawn to its picturesque landscapes featured in films like Love Letter and Cities in Love. However, the Chinese New Year holidays bring an influx of visitors, manny of whom are eager to capture the perfect photo. Unluckily, this has led to incidents of trespassing and road obstructions, causing frustration among local residents.The tragic accident involving a Hong Kong tourist last week further highlighted the need for immediate action. The city’s measures are a proactive response to these challenges, balancing tourism growth with public safety.
Key Initiatives and Their Impact
Senior Editor: Could you elaborate on the specific measures Otaru has implemented?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: Otaru has deployed security guards around Funamizaka slope, equipped with signs in English, Chinese, and Korean to communicate effectively with international tourists. These guards are stationed until the end of March to cover the peak tourist period.Additionally, there’s been an increase in police patrols to deter trespassing and unsafe behavior. The multilingual approach is crucial, as it ensures that visitors understand the rules and the importance of adhering to them. Early reports suggest these measures have already reduced incidents of road obstructions and trespassing.
Lessons from the Tragic Accident
Senior Editor: How has the recent accident influenced Otaru’s approach to tourist safety?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: The accident was a sobering reminder of the risks associated with unsafe tourist behavior. The woman was attempting to take photos on train tracks, an area clearly marked as out of bounds. This incident has spurred not only Otaru but also Hokkaido Railway to consider additional safety measures, such as multilingual announcements on trains. It’s a step toward creating a safer habitat for tourists while preserving the region’s scenic beauty.
Balancing Tourism Growth and Local Convenience
Senior Editor: How can cities like Otaru balance tourism growth with the needs of local residents?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: It’s a delicate balance. On one hand, tourism brings economic benefits and cultural exchange; on the othre, it can strain local infrastructure and disrupt daily life. Otaru’s approach—combining multilingual dialog, increased security, and community engagement—is a model for other cities facing similar challenges. It’s essential to involve local residents in decision-making and ensure that tourism development aligns with their needs and priorities.
The Future of Tourism in Otaru
Senior Editor: What do you foresee for Otaru’s tourism industry in the coming years?
Dr. Akiko Tanaka: Otaru has immense potential as a tourist destination, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. However, sustainable tourism practices will be key to its long-term success. This includes not only safety measures but also initiatives to preserve the environment and promote responsible tourism. By learning from the challenges of the past, Otaru can create a tourism model that benefits both visitors and residents.
Conclusion
Otaru’s proactive measures during the Chinese New Year holiday season highlight the importance of balancing tourism growth with public safety and local convenience. By deploying multilingual security guards, increasing police patrols, and considering additional safety announcements, the city is setting a precedent for responsible tourism. As Dr. Tanaka emphasized, sustainable practices and community involvement will be crucial for otaru’s future as a premier destination in Hokkaido.