Amidst Japan’s breathtaking landscapes, the country is grappling with overtourism that threatens its natural beauty. In response, Japan is adopting innovative measures to safeguard its environment while bolstering local economies through thoughtful tourism management.
Six of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites are exploring strategies to protect delicate habitats and ecosystems, ensuring they thrive alongside increased visitor activity. Notably, in July 2021, four islands—Amami-Oshima, Tokunoshima, North Okinawa, and Iriomotejima—earned the prestigious designation, prompting heightened conservation efforts. Iriomotejima, in particular, is under increased scrutiny by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, which urges stricter controls to prevent ecological overload.
Since March, Iriomotejima Island, located off Taketomi in Okinawa Prefecture, has been proactively limiting visitor numbers at several sites. Five environmentally sensitive spots now operate under visitor caps—such as Pinaisara Waterfall, which formerly welcomed 350 daily tourists but now restricts entries to 200 per day. Sangara Waterfall caps at 100 daily visitors, while Mount Tedou limits tours to just 30 individuals. “We started smoothly, maintaining visitor numbers below limits even during busy holiday seasons,” shares Harumi Tokuoka, former secretary-general of the Iriomote Foundation. These efforts are part of coordinated plans with Taketomi City, the Ministry of the Environment, and other stakeholders to address emerging challenges and foster sustainable tourism.
The Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains—spanning Aomori and Akita Prefectures—hold Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage designation for natural sites, established in December 1993. Recognizing the environmental pressures post-designation, restrictions were introduced in 1997 to curb mountain trekking. Access to the core zone in Aomori is regulated through predetermined trails with prior notification, while the Akita side largely restricts entry to protect pristine conditions.
Beyond visitor limits, Japan emphasizes guided eco-tours, leveraging expert naturalists to ensure safety and environmental preservation. Guides play a vital role in fostering respect for nature and promoting sustainable economic benefits for local communities.
Yakushima Island’s authorities are contemplating mandatory guided hikes with certified guides or environmental briefings before treks, exemplifying efforts to balance adventure with conservation. Similarly, Indonesia faces analogous challenges. Bali, increasingly crowded and environmentally strained, exhibits signs of mass tourism—including ecological degradation, overcrowded attractions, and rising tourist-related crime—calling for immediate measures to curb overtourism and protect its unique charm.
