The Japanese government recently unveiled its latest initiative to revitalize the domestic tourism industry, with the launch of the Mirasapo Plus website (https://mirasapo-plus.go.jp). Developed by the Japan Tourism Agency, the website aims to encourage local residents to explore different regions of Japan and support local businesses in the process.
Mirasapo Plus offers a wide range of features and incentives to attract users. Through the website, residents can participate in various campaigns and receive discounts or vouchers for tourist activities, accommodation, transportation, and dining. The platform also provides valuable information about lesser-known destinations and events, allowing users to discover hidden gems within their own country.
To further entice residents, the government plans to organize promotional events and collaborate with local businesses and municipalities. The ultimate goal of the initiative is to stimulate economic growth in regions heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic by boosting domestic tourism.
Despite being a new entrant in the market, Mirasapo Plus faces competition from existing websites that cater to domestic tourists. One of its main rivals is Japan Travel (https://en.japantravel.com), a comprehensive platform that offers information on popular tourist attractions, local experiences, and travel itineraries. It allows users to plan their trips, book accommodations, and explore a wide range of curated content.
Another competitor is Jalan (https://www.jalan.net/en/japan_hotels_ryokan/), a well-established online booking platform that specializes in accommodations, including traditional ryokans and hotels throughout Japan. Jalan offers not only domestic but also international travelers the convenience of planning and booking their stays.
Tabelog (https://tabelog.com/en/) is yet another competitor, focusing on providing users with detailed information about a variety of dining establishments across Japan. With an extensive review system and a multitude of restaurant options, Tabelog is a go-to platform for food enthusiasts seeking memorable culinary experiences.
As the competition heats up in the domestic tourism sector, it will be interesting to see how Mirasapo Plus establishes its unique value proposition and strengthens its position in the market. The introduction of this new initiative shows the Japanese government’s dedication to supporting local businesses and reigniting the country’s tourism industry.
Link to the website: mirasapo-plus.go.jp
