In 2026, the gaming industry continues to see great excitement with the successive releases of major titles such as Resident Evil Requiem, Pokémon Pokopia, and PRAGMATA.
As attention gathers around Japanese game titles, interest in Japan naturally rises, and inbound tourism triggered by games will likely increase.
The Committee for the Promotion of Orderly Inbound Tourism, operated by the non-profit organization Research Institute for Public Policy, implemented the Nara Prefecture Project on Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Chinese influencers Fu Yumeng (付玉蒙) (Weibo) and Midori (reednote) participated to cover the attractions of Nara Prefecture.
Chinese Influencers Cover Nara's History and Local Culture
Tourism to Japan continues to expand, and opportunities to see inbound tourists in cities have increased.
While it is pleasing to see more people enjoying Japan's unique charms, news of friction between tourists and residents due to a lack of understanding is often heard.
In response to such situations, the non-profit organization Research Institute for Public Policy established the Committee for the Promotion of Orderly Inbound Tourism in 2025.
Up until now, they have worked with influencers in Chichibu, Nasu, and Yamanashi to promote the attractions and etiquette of those regions overseas.
This time, as the fourth installment, they implemented the Nara Prefecture Project from Friday, April 17, to Saturday, April 18, 2026, to communicate the charms, culture, and etiquette of Nara Prefecture through Chinese social media.
With Fumihiro Sato, an expert in the inbound tourism field, joining as an advisor, Chinese influencers Fu Yumeng (Weibo) and Midori (reednote) conducted reporting activities in Nara City and Yamatokoriyama City, which are rich in historical tourism resources.
Day 1: Encountering Nature, History, and Food Culture in Nara City
First, the reporting began at Nara Park and Mount Wakakusa.
While deepening their understanding of coexistence with deer and tourism etiquette, they promoted the charm where nature and history intertwine.
Afterward, they moved to the Naramachi area to experience traditional streetscapes and food culture.
In addition to observing a demonstration at Nakatanidou, famous for its high-speed mochi pounding, they visited Fukuden and Awa Naramachi Branch, where they enjoyed kaiseki cuisine using locally grown Yamato vegetables and other ingredients, relishing dishes that can only be tasted here.
Day 2: Experiencing Community Culture in Yamatokoriyama City
On the second day, they moved to Yamatokoriyama City to experience a historical atmosphere distinct from Nara City.
They toured the historical sites of Koriyama Castle, the largest fortification in Yamato, built in 1580, and covered its history and origins.
Afterward, they experienced the charm of tourism content utilizing local resources, including:
- Atmospheric Japanese cuisine at Unagi Daimon
- Fureai Kobo Watagen, which revived Yamatokoriyama's authentic indigo dyeing
- Kingyo Café ~Yanakiraya Hidamari~, which carries on the enduring goldfish culture
Toward a Positive Future for Both Visitors and Hosts
PR TIMES
The influencers who encountered the history and culture in Nara City and Yamatokoriyama City shared their thoughts, with comments such as, "In addition to the depth of Nara's historical streetscapes and temple and shrine culture, I truly felt the lifestyle culture rooted in the region and the warmth of the people." and "I recognized the importance of understanding the unique cultural background of Japan, such as coexistence with deer and etiquette at temples and shrines." Furthermore, they showed high motivation regarding their communications, stating, "In the future, I want to promote Nara's charm overseas through social media while also helping to promote the understanding of culture and manners, contributing to an increase in travelers who are considerate of the local community."
The Committee for the Promotion of Orderly Inbound Tourism stated that they will continue to implement measures that advance regional understanding and smooth cultural exchange for foreign visitors to resolve issues in inbound tourism.
