Action Plans for Tourist Transport and Local Development
Action plans for Tourist Transport and Local Development were adopted in 1996 with the following objectives. The first objective is to advocate a new travel system featuring close cooperation between local communities and tourism / transport industries. The second objective is to systematically develop and manage transportation facilities that will support the new travel system, thus revitalizing local economies. The action plans pledge to advocate specific new travel systems in line with regional characteristics and provide common visions for future coordination among the national / regional governments, tourism operators, and transportation businesses. The plans were implemented in the Hokuriku and Shikoku regions in FY1996, Central / Southern Hokkaido and Kyushu in FY1997, and the Kanto and Chugoku regions in FY1998.
Family Travel Village, International Exchange Village, and Family Camping Village
(a) Family Travel Villages in recreational tourism areas target the residents of medium-sized cities. These areas are designed to (1) develop facilities family groups can use casually in natural surroundings, and (2) promote local tourism and revitalize local cultures. This category includes camping sites, picnic grounds, and recreational sports facilities. A total of 47 areas have been developed thus far. (b) International Exchange Villages at international exchange bases are bases for attracting foreign visitors within areas promoting foreign tourism. In these areas, facilities are developed to help visitors to enjoy overseas experiences of the local nature, culture, history, and traditional lifestyle. A total of 12 areas have been developed, with another area currently under development. (c) Family Camping Villages at automobile travel bases respond to the trend among city dwellers to seek nature and the increased demand for recreational tourism. These areas are developed with the objectives of (1) securing casual, low-cost auto-camping facilities in natural settings, (2) providing sites for recreational tourism, and (3) revitalizing local communities. A total of seven areas have been completed, with nine others currently under development.
