HOKKAIDO, Mar 14 (News On Japan) –
Efforts to deal with overtourism in Otaru, Hokkaido, have taken an unconventional flip, as native youth have adopted a ninja persona to induce vacationers to comply with correct etiquette.
The initiative, led by the Otaru Next 100 Executive Committee, goals to counter viral tourism traits by utilizing eye-catching digital warnings.
The problem gained urgency after an increase in misconduct at in style websites, together with vacationers trespassing on personal property and a deadly railway accident involving a Chinese customer in January 2025. Despite official warnings, many vacationers proceed to disregard native guidelines.
On March 2, committee members dressed as ninjas and created a social media picture that includes a ninja warning vacationers to respect personal property. The marketing campaign rapidly gained traction on-line, with some calling for messages in a number of languages.
The initiative is ready to proceed, with ten deliberate installments aimed toward selling accountable tourism whereas preserving Otaru’s native life and tradition.
Source: 北海道ニュースUHB