In brief
Summary of a traveler's experience uncovering the less-touristed places in Japan while navigating the effects of mass tourism.
Recent news from Japan highlights the reflections of a travel writer as he explores the country, balancing the allure of sharing hidden treasures with the responsibility to preserve local cultures from the encroachment of overtourism. In September, I embarked on a solo trip across Japan, from the historic streets of Nagasaki to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. The intensity of late summer's heat was countered by the serene tranquility found in the forested onsens of Mount Aso and the delightful taste of sushi shared with newfound friends in Tokyo. Each day, I walked tirelessly along the cities' pathways, soaking in the sights and sounds under the sun's warm rays.During my stay in Kyoto, I was eager to tick off a long list of famous attractions: the vibrant torii gates at Fushimi Inari and the serene bamboo groves of Arashiyama caught my attention. Yet, unexpectedly, I found myself spending hours at a small, unassuming bar where a mix of interesting locals pointed me towards the city's lesser-known gems. This unmarked haven dramatically altered my experience of Kyoto.As a travel writer, I know I possess the power—and perhaps the obligation—to share discoveries like this charming bar. However, I pondered whether doing so would lead to its inevitable popularity, transforming it from a hidden gem into just another overcrowded tourist spot. Pico Iyer, a respected travel writer with decades of experience living quietly in Kyoto, articulated this dilemma in depth. In an essay for the Travel section, he delved into the complex balance of showcasing the city's treasures while safeguarding it from being overwhelmed by throngs of visitors. The local populace faces a conundrum too—how to embrace the economic benefits that tourists bring while managing the strain their presence causes.Signs instructing tourists to keep clear of residential areas were abundant. Posters on jam-packed buses begged travelers to opt for the train instead, highlighting the tension between tourists and locals. When mingling among visitors at famed sites like Kiyomizu, I couldn't shake the feeling of being just another face in a sea of people rather than an individual traveler immersed in Japanese culture.Ultimately, my travels in Japan served as a reminder of the delicate interplay between exploration and conservation and the weighty responsibility that travel writers carry in these times of mass tourism.
