Insights: 2010
The articles of 2010 from JTB Tourism Research & Consulting Co..
How does the Expansion of International Operation at Haneda Airport Influence the Regional Travel Market?
Tokyo-Haneda Airport had mainly served domestic flights and a limited number of international charter flights since the opening of Narita International Airport in 1983. In October 2010, Haneda resumed international scheduled flight operation thanks to the expanded capacity with an additional runway and the new international terminal. It is, needless to say, good news for international travelers who live in the country's Metropolitan area. How, then, does the expansion of international operation at Haneda influence the traveling behavior and attitude of those who live in the local regions of Japan?
Who will be a driving force for consumer spending on the recovery track of economy?
At long last, the Japanese economy is taking a favorable turn. In terms of consumer sentiment, however, there is still a prevailing mood of cutting cost of living commodities including foods. What is the future course of consumption on the recovery track of business condition and stock prices? Having experienced a number of economic recessions, consumers have become more likely to save money in order to overcome the harsh economic conditions such as declining income and uncertain employment. They are saving money not because of the helplessness. Consumers cast keen eyes on whether the quality of product or service has a good value for money and select only what they find worth for the price. Today, the elders and the wealthy people are leading personal consumption. Following them are working women, who are expected to grow in number. Supporting women who have a job may lead to growing consumption and economic recovery.
M-shaped curve in family travel
It is well known that the labor force rate for women in their 20s and 30s is lower than that of other age groups because they tend to quit their jobs for marriage and childbirth. The labor force rate graph by age shows an M-shape. Similarly, the ratio of female participation in leisure activities and travel in their 30s and 40s is also low. What is the reason for that?
Yoko HayanoChief Consultant
Special report The Japanese quit hold of their passports: Four million Japanese people have not applied for renewal of passport for five years
This article covers the declining number of Japanese passport holders and the flagging overseas tourism.
No particular reason but feeling like saving money －A vague anxiety about future and a sense of social stagnation may affect consumer sentiment: It may affect Japanese travel and buying behavior.
There is little sign of recovery from the current slugging consumption on the horizon. According to the Current Survey of Commerce compiled by Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the sales of large scale retailers has fallen for 19 months in a row and particularly the sales of department stores has continued to tumble by more than 10% on a year-on year basis over the last 6 months. How does the current economic downturn have an impact on consumer behavior including travel?
Yoko HayanoChief Consultant
Currency Exchange during Overseas Travel
During the holyday season, a number of travelers line up at the currency exchange counter. How do Japanese travelers get local currency when going abroad? And how much money do they exchange?