By: Alex
"There are more monkeys than people," "Arashiyama, the bamboo forest, no one around," "Now, you can see Arashiyama as it used to be." For those looking to leisurely explore Kyoto and experience this historic cultural city, some suggest that now is the best time to visit.
▲A tourism organization has launched a new promotional campaign in hopes of attracting visitors. (Photo by Kyoto Shimbun)
Kyoto, once overcrowded and swamped with tourists, has seen a sharp decline in visitors from China, the West, and even domestic travelers due to the impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic. This has made it extremely difficult for businesses that rely on tourism. Some shop owners are even worried that upcoming cherry blossom season and the Tokyo Olympics will further prolong the downturn. The "Sagano-Arashiyama Hotel Association," formed by shop owners from five commercial streets in the Arashiyama area, has decided to launch a new promotional campaign to draw tourists back—but it has sparked controversy among Japanese netizens.
▲Arashiyama Monkey Park: more monkeys than people.
▲Bamboo Grove Path: no one around.
Although shops have now fully implemented basic preventive measures such as handwashing stations, mouthwash, and disinfectant alcohol, the new campaign has so far only attracted a small number of Japanese netizens. Even those tempted to visit remain hesitant, saying, "I want to go, but I’m afraid to take the shinkansen (bullet train)."
▲Togetsukyo Bridge
▲Hozugawa River Cruise
Among the feedback, skepticism unsurprisingly dominates: "The infection trail is still being investigated—don’t cause trouble for the country," "At the very least, shop owners should wear masks," and "I think it would be better to say: we know you want to visit Kyoto, but please avoid crowded areas for now, and come back after the pandemic is over."
One netizen put it bluntly: "Just like during a volcanic eruption, some care more about their wallets than customer safety." Others feel the campaign "will actually drive even fewer tourists away."
▲Hanamikoji Street, once packed with tourists, is now quiet and deserted. (Photo by saizou7365 @Twitter)
Source:Kyoto Shimbun