TokudAw invited for comment on Fodor’s No List 2025
In Fodor’s No List 2025, TokudAw Inc., was invited for a comment in the internationally renowned travel publication, Fodor. Fodor published an annual list of ‘no-go’ destinations for the year ahead, in what it describes as an effort to highlight ‘destinations where tourism is placing unsustainable pressures on the land and local communities’. In Japan, Kyoto and Tokyo have been selected as destinations beginning to suffer. As quoted from the article:
“Locals, who feel the effects of the country’s notoriety in various aspects of their daily lives, at times appear to be a secondary consideration. Wanping Aw, managing director of tour agency TokudAw Inc., states that Japanese professionals are reportedly facing challenges booking economical hotels in Tokyo. “Tourists are residing in the business hotels usually meant for Japanese locals on business trips, and the hotels are taking the opportunity to hike their prices.” She says that Kyoto must-sees like Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, and Fushimi Inari are so congested that there isn’t enough space to walk comfortably. “Instead of being able to enjoy the spot for what it is, we are overwhelmed by the crowds and by the large number of souvenir and snack stores.” Aw laments that sought-after food markets are prioritizing the needs of tourists and are subsequently losing their local flavor. “Tsukiji Market [in Tokyo], Nishiki Market [in Kyoto], and Omicho Market [in Kanazawa] used to be very reasonably priced so locals could go down to purchase fresh produce. But now they are tourism hotspots so the prices are way up and the food sold also caters to what the tourists like.””
What’s Next for TokudAw?
One of TokudAw’s mission is to contribute to sustainable tourism by supporting local communities. and cultural heritage. As much as understand that most guests would love to visit the famous tourist spots, we often suggest a blend of famous places and a few more not so known places and expriences where tourists have a chance to understand and communicate with the local Japanese.
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To find out more about what efforts in protecting cultural heritages, read more about our Ninja experience at Akiruno City, Tokyo and our Charity Rice Planting Tour at Tomi City, Nagano.
To take a look at some sample itineraries out of the golden route, please visit our suggested itinerary page.
Contact TokudAw
To learn more about how TokudAw can support your accessible journey to Japan, whether for business or leisure, reach out to our team at:
● mail: wanping@tokudaw.com
● Website: www.tokudaw.com
