KUMAMOTO—Kumamoto Prefecture experienced the highest growth rate of foreign tourism of any prefecture in Japan, helped by popular statues of characters from “One Piece,” the iconic manga and anime series.
In fiscal 2023, the prefecture experienced a notable 2.14-fold increase in international visitors compared to four years earlier, according to Navitime Japan Co., a navigation app operator.
This was followed by Fukuoka Prefecture, with a 2.06-fold increase, and Yamagata Prefecture, with a 2-fold increase.
Nine municipalities in Kumamoto Prefecture each feature one of nine bronze statues of “One Piece” characters.
These cities and towns showed the highest growth rate of foreign visitors in the region.
Uto topped the list with a 7.33-fold increase, followed by Mashiki with a 6.75-fold increase, Takamori with a 4.25-fold increase, Minami-Aso with a 3.74-fold increase and Mifune with a 3.6-fold increase.
The statues were initially erected as part of an effort to boost local tourism after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquakes.
Navitime Japan suggests that the Straw Hat Pirate statues have played a role in drawing visitors to different parts of the prefecture.
The analysis was conducted using GPS data obtained from the company’s navigation service for inbound tourists.
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