Development and Prospect of Language Policy in Japanese Inbound Tourism Policy: Awareness of Progress in Multilingualism

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  • 日本のインバウンド観光施策における言語政策の展開と展望―多言語化の進展を意識化する―
  • ニホン ノ インバウンド カンコウ シサク ニ オケル ゲンゴ セイサク ノ テンカイ ト テンボウ : タゲンゴカ ノ シンテン オ イシキカ スル

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<p>The current increase in the number of foreign tourists to Japan is the result of former Prime Minister Koizumi’s declaration on tourism in 2003. Since then, there has been considerable focus on the promotion of tourism in Japan and improvement of facilities for foreign tourists. One government policy related to this is the promotion of a multilingualism in tourism-related facilities including railway stations and museums. Under this policy, English is given priority as the preferred language of communication with international tourists, while other languages are sometimes provided in addition for their convenience, which reflecting a hierarchical view of language. Policies regarding the utilization of foreign human resources and automatic speech translation devices are also relevant in this context. Another issue is the expected increase in interactions between foreigners and the Japanese due to foreigners staying in Japan longer and their increased participation in Japan’s workforce. While multilingual education is important in light of these developments, this topic has received inadequate attention and has not been considered in relation to Japan’s tourism policy.We propose that the further development of Japan’s tourism industry requires a proper language policy which goes beyond mere translation and incorporates consideration of language rights.</p>

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