Seminal Study

A Study on the Creation of Touring Environments from the Viewpoint of International Road Tourism

In Hokkaido, the number of overseas tourists that drive rented cars has increased dramatically in recent years, and this tendency is expected to continue in the future. Realization of an attractive driving environment for overseas tourists will lead to higher international competitiveness of Hokkaido’s tourism industry and contribute to the promotion of regional tourism. Some tourism-oriented countries are active in promoting road tourism for overseas tourists.

Therefore, from the viewpoint of promoting road tourism for overseas tourists in Hokkaido and the rest of Japan, a study on the creation of universal and attractive touring environments is to be conducted to realize internationally competitive self-drive tourism.

Since there are many aged drivers in rural areas of Hokkaido due to insufficient public transport, this study will also be important for senior citizens faced with similar barriers.

 

No. of cars rented by overseas tourists around New Chitose Airport Source: Chitose Airport Rent-a-car Association, Sapporo Rent-a-car Association	Percentage of overseas tourists who were “very satisfied” about each item, out of those who were “very satisfied” about driving