Fukuoka City has announced its plans to increase visitors to the city from the 2010 figure of 3.58 million to 20 million by 2022. Of this, 2.5 million are hoped to be visitors from overseas. Fukuoka is aiming to be the ‘worlds most hospitable city’ and will work on attracting visitors for events for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) by increasing the annual event number from 221 in 2011 to 250. Fukuoka City aims to make ¥250,000,000,000 income from tourism and international conferences by 2022. With the impending launch of KLM’s nonstop flight from Fukuoka to Holland (Apr. 2013), the city plans to put more energy into attracting European tourists. The number of cruise ships docking at Hakata Port is also projected to increase to around 250 per year, over the next 10 years. Another drawcard for tourists is the filming and airing of the 2014 NHK drama “Gunshi Kanbei”, which focuses around historical figure “Kuroda Kanbei”, the founder of Fukuoka. Tours connected to Kuroda Kanbei and Fukuoka’s history will begin around the time of the drama’s release, and Fukuoka City has plans for various other sightseeing tours.
Fukuoka City is asking for comments and ideas from residents. You can pick up the required form at any ward office or on the website. Comments are due by Jan 21. For further information, please call Fukuoka City’s Tourism Bureau on 092-711-4353. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun Jan 8. Official HP: http://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/keizai/kankou-s/shisei/fukuokakankousyuukyakusenryaku2013.html.
