Published on
October 22, 2025
In a groundbreaking initiative, Japan is transforming its tourism infrastructure by creating dual-purpose tourism sites that can serve as both tourist destinations and emergency shelters in times of disaster. This innovative approach not only promotes tourism but also enhances the country’s disaster resilience, particularly in areas vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons.
A New Era for Japan’s Tourism: Disaster-Ready Destinations
Japan’s new initiative aims to redefine how the country views its tourist attractions. By reimagining tourism infrastructure, these sites will no longer just be places to visit for entertainment or culture—they will be vital community resources during emergencies. This forward-thinking plan targets areas with high tourist footfall and natural disaster risks, ensuring that tourists and locals alike are well-protected in times of need.
Strategic Planning: Where Tourism Meets Emergency Response
The locations chosen for these dual-purpose sites are carefully selected, keeping in mind the dual role of these structures. Situated in disaster-prone regions, the sites are designed with disaster management in mind, equipped with reinforced buildings, easy-to-follow evacuation routes, and accessibility features.
These sites will transform from lively tourist hubs to well-prepared emergency shelters, offering shelter, food, and emergency supplies when disaster strikes. It’s an ambitious plan that blends Japan’s commitment to tourism growth with its dedication to disaster preparedness.
Collaboration for Resilience: Government and Local Partnerships
Creating these disaster-ready tourism destinations requires strong collaboration between Japan’s national tourism authorities and local governments. Through the partnership with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and disaster management agencies, Japan is ensuring that these sites meet both the expectations of visitors and the strict requirements for disaster response readiness.
By tapping into local knowledge, the sites are being tailored to the unique needs of the regions they serve. Local authorities provide input on the best locations and ensure that the infrastructure is designed to meet both tourist demands and disaster recovery needs.
Training for the Unexpected: Preparing Staff for All Scenarios
To ensure the smooth transition from a tourist attraction to an emergency shelter, staff at these locations undergo thorough disaster preparedness training. Employees are taught how to manage emergency situations, assist evacuees, and handle crucial tasks such as distributing supplies and maintaining communication networks.
Public education also plays a significant role. Japan’s tourism and local governments are rolling out awareness campaigns to inform tourists and local communities about the importance of these sites and how to use them effectively during an emergency.
Monitoring Progress: Ongoing Evaluation to Enhance Effectiveness
Japan is not just implementing this dual-purpose site strategy and walking away. The government and local authorities are committed to continuous monitoring and evaluation to assess how these sites perform in both tourism and emergency roles. Feedback is gathered from both residents and visitors to fine-tune the system and ensure these locations remain a reliable resource for the community.
By constantly evaluating the performance and effectiveness of these multi-functional spaces, Japan ensures that its tourism and disaster preparedness plans evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of its people and visitors.
Japan’s Resilient Future: A Model for the World
Japan’s innovative approach to combining tourism with disaster preparedness sets a global standard for how countries can create spaces that serve multiple functions. These dual-purpose sites not only contribute to the growth of tourism in the country but also ensure that Japan remains a safe and resilient destination for all.
As more countries face the realities of climate change and natural disasters, Japan’s model serves as an inspiring example of how to integrate emergency preparedness into everyday infrastructure, making it both a tourist attraction and a vital community resource.
