Japan in a Day: Why South Korean Tourists Are Flocking to TsushimaーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Why It Matters

Tsushima’s tourism boom demonstrates how easy, short‑haul trips can revitalize local economies and deepen Japan‑South Korea relations, offering a template for other border regions.

Key Takeaways

• Tsushima Island draws 260k South Korean day‑trip tourists annually.
• One‑hour ferry from Busan makes island a convenient weekend getaway.
• Young Korean travelers prefer independent bike tours over traditional group trips.
• Local sushi and rental businesses report 50% surge in Korean customers.
• Rising tourism revitalizes island’s economy and strengthens Japan‑Korea ties.

Summary

The NHK World segment spotlights Tsushima Island’s surge in South Korean visitors, with over 260,000 arrivals last year—roughly ten times the island’s resident population. Just a 50‑kilometre ferry ride from Busan, the island offers a one‑day, two‑day itinerary of sushi, bike rides, and beach time, appealing especially to Gen Z travelers seeking quick, affordable getaways.

Tourists are shifting from traditional group tours to independent trips, prompting local operators to expand bike rentals and adapt services. A Korean‑run short‑term rental host notes the rise in solo visitors, while a sushi restaurant owner reports a 50% increase in Korean diners and has introduced a Korean‑language menu and loyalty perks.

The island’s entrepreneurs highlight tangible benefits: higher demand for local seafood, increased occupancy of short‑term rentals, and a broader cultural exchange. One owner remarks that the influx of polite, young tourists helps revitalize the community and fosters goodwill across the Japan‑Korea border.

Analysts see Tsushima as a micro‑cosm of post‑pandemic tourism trends—short, cross‑border trips that boost peripheral economies while easing diplomatic tensions. The model could inspire other nearby regions to leverage proximity and niche experiences to attract foreign visitors.

Original Description

It's no secret that foreign visitors are flocking to Japan in record numbers. But one small island is seeing a big boost thanks to South Korean visitors. NHK World's Kim Chan-ju tells us more.

More stories on Asia: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/tags/58/　

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