The news that all Japan lovers were waiting to hear. Japan finally will be opening its doors to tourists next month. They have let tourists in slowly since covid. But this time it’s finally supposed to go back to the normal days.
It’s great news for tourists and also the Japanese tourism industry. The economy of Japan heavily depended on the tourism industry. It has been pretty stagnant ever since the pandemic. They need the tourists back. For the Japan lovers, it’s their opportunity to come to Japan again. They get to experience what they have been missing out on.
But what about the residents of Japan? Well if you are in one of the bigger cities or the popular tourism destinations, brace yourselves. Things are going to get super crowded. I can speak for Tokyo myself.
I have been in Tokyo for more than 3 months now. I enjoy living here but I don’t enjoy the crowds. I have gotten a seat on the train only once in three months. It varies depending on which train line you take but most of them are busy in the morning. At the other times of the day, it is better. But once the borders are open expect Tokyo to be crowded throughout the day.
I remember visiting Tokyo in 2019. Just before the pandemic started. I came here around fall which is a busy time. I hated the crowd that time. Compared to 2019 the crowds have been smaller. But with the tourism industry being open again, I am pretty sure crowds will be bigger.
I am not saying I want the borders closed. I am happy that people will get to experience Japan. I hope find a way o navigate the crowds.