A remarkable surge in tourism has hit Japan's renowned Niseko ski resort, located on the northern island of Hokkaido. This influx of visitors has led to soaring prices for food, accommodations, and services, raising concerns among local residents about the impact on their community.
Key Takeaways
- Niseko ski resort sees record foreign tourist numbers, reaching approximately 740,000 in fiscal 2023.
- Prices for food and lodging have increased significantly, with some accommodations raising rates by over 10%.
- Local residents express concerns about the affordability of services and the strain on their finances.
Record Influx of Tourists
The Niseko area, which includes the towns of Niseko, Kutchan, and Rankoshi, has become a hotspot for international tourists, particularly from Australia and China. The number of foreign tourists staying overnight in these towns reached a staggering 740,000 in the last fiscal year, marking a significant increase from previous years.
Rising Costs and Economic Impact
As the number of visitors has surged, so too have the prices for various services. Local businesses have responded to the increased demand by raising their prices, which has led to a noticeable strain on residents. For instance:
- A private lodging operator in Rankoshi increased nightly rates from 88,000 yen to 99,000 yen, citing the weaker yen as a contributing factor.
- Restaurants have also seen price hikes, with one Australian tourist reporting a 10,000 yen ($66) sushi meal, which she found satisfying despite the cost.
Residents have voiced their concerns about the rising costs. A long-time resident of Kutchan mentioned that he has stopped hosting end-of-year parties due to the high prices at local restaurants, which now cater primarily to tourists.
Challenges for Local Businesses
The tourism boom has not only affected prices but has also created challenges for local businesses, particularly in the service sector. Toshihiro Mori, who runs a home care service in Kutchan, highlighted the difficulties in hiring workers. He noted that the nursing care industry struggles to compete with the wages offered by hotels, where workers can earn around 2,000 yen per hour for relatively simple tasks.
Conclusion
While the tourism boom in Niseko brings economic opportunities, it also poses significant challenges for local residents and businesses. The rising costs of living and services are prompting concerns about the long-term sustainability of this growth. As Niseko continues to attract visitors from around the world, finding a balance between catering to tourists and maintaining affordability for locals will be crucial for the community's future.
Sources
- Tourism boom sends prices soaring at Japan's famed Niseko ski resort, Kyodo News+ | Japan's leading news agency..