Fujikawaguchiko, a picturesque town known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, recently erected a large black screen in an attempt to manage the overwhelming influx of tourists. The 2.5-meter (8.2-feet) high and 20-meter (66 feet) long black mesh net was installed last Tuesday. However, just a day later, officials discovered a hole in the screen. By the following Tuesday morning, around ten similar holes had been found, all conveniently positioned at eye level and perfectly sized for camera lenses.

Popular Viewing Spots and Tourist Behaviour

One particularly popular viewing spot is outside a Lawson convenience store, where tourists often take photos from a specific angle to create the illusion of Mount Fuji perched atop the store's roof. This area has become notorious for congestion, with visitors blocking narrow sidewalks, stepping into busy roads, and trespassing on neighboring properties to capture the perfect shot. Despite efforts to control the crowd, the situation remains challenging for local authorities and residents.

Financial and Social Impact

The town invested 1.3 million yen ($8,285) in the black screen and additional fences along the sidewalk. Officials report that the screen has somewhat alleviated congestion. However, the rapid rise in tourism, fueled by social media fame, has led to mixed feelings among locals. Michie Motomochi, a local cafe owner, expressed concerns over tourist behaviour, citing littering, jaywalking, and trespassing as major issues. Nevertheless, she acknowledges that 80% of her customers are foreign visitors, whose numbers surged post-pandemic.

The Historical Context of Tourism in Fujikawaguchiko

Fujikawaguchiko has long been a hub for tourists seeking breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. The town's development has been closely tied to tourism, with local businesses heavily reliant on visitors. The recent spike in tourism, particularly from foreign visitors, can be traced back to a viral photo on social media showing Mount Fuji seemingly sitting atop a local convenience store. This image turned the quiet town into a bustling hotspot, attracting crowds that sometimes arrive as early as 4-5 a.m.

Global Tourism Challenges: A Comparative Perspective

The issue of over-tourism is not unique to Fujikawaguchiko. European cities like Venice have also struggled with managing tourist crowds. Venice recently introduced a pilot program charging day-trippers a 5-euro ($5.35) entry fee to discourage peak-time visits and improve the quality of life for residents. Similarly, Kyoto's famous geisha district has restricted access to some private alleys to curb tourist intrusion. These measures highlight a growing global trend of cities grappling with the balance between welcoming tourists and preserving local life.

Local Opinions and Potential Solutions

Local opinions on the effectiveness of the black screen are divided. Anthony Hok, a tourist from France, criticised the screen as an overreaction and suggested using road barriers for safety instead. In contrast, Helen Pull from the U.K. sympathised with local concerns, noting the overwhelming surge in tourism since the pandemic restrictions were lifted.

Yoshihiko Ogawa, a local rice shop owner, described the worsening overcrowding and expressed uncertainty about the future. Despite the challenges, the tourism boom has significantly benefited local businesses, complicating the decision-making process for effective solutions.

The Future of Tourism in Fujikawaguchiko

Japan's tourism industry has rebounded robustly post-pandemic, with over 25 million visitors last year and projections suggesting nearly 32 million this year. This influx, while economically beneficial, has exacerbated issues in popular tourist destinations. The government is keen on attracting even more tourists, further intensifying the need for sustainable tourism practices.

In Fujikawaguchiko, the black screen remains a contentious solution. While it has temporarily eased congestion, the search for a more effective and less intrusive method continues. The town's experience underscores the broader challenges faced by tourist hotspots worldwide in balancing economic benefits with the quality of life for residents.