Skip to Content

The online magazine HIGHLIGHTING JAPAN

OCTOBER 2023

THE ALLURE OF CULTURAL TOURISM IN JAPAN'S REGIONS

The cover of October 2023

INDEX

  • In Japan, the government is working to promote "Cultural Tourism" in regions centered on hub facilities, like art galleries, museums and other base facilities for cultural tourism. In this month's issue of Highlighting Japan, we feature some exemplary initiatives recognized by the government. These include traditional Buddhist temples with valuable cultural properties, a museum dedicated to the Japanese sword, and a contemporary art museum, each important in promoting cultural tourism in their respective regions.

FEATURES

  • Interview with Yoshiyuki Oshita, Professor at Doshisha University's Faculty of Economics

  • Introduction to the cultural tourism of Otaru City, Hokkaido, centered around the Otaru Art Base, which consists of five historic buildings showcasing glass art and ukiyo-e prints, among other things

  • Introduction to cultural tourism in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, centered around the Towada Art Center

  • Introduction to cultural tourism unique to the snowy region of Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture

  • Introduction to the various esoteric Buddhist temples and cultural experiences in Koya-san, Wakayama Prefecture, widely known as a sacred place of Buddhism worldwide

  • Introduction to the Bizen Osafune Sword Museum in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, which conveys the history and craftsmanship of Japanese swords

  • Introduction to cultural tourism in Tokushima Prefecture, providing experience of the Three Great Awa Cultures of Awa Odori, Awa Indigo, and Awa Ningyo Joruri

  • Introduction to cultural tourism in Oita Prefecture, centered around the Oita Prefectural Art Museum, which houses many bamboo craftworks

Also