Research leader:

Yoshihisa INADA, Director of Research & Director of Center for Quantitative Economic Analysis, Asia Pacific Institute of Research (APIR)

 

Research outline:

We analyze the reasons why the 1970 Japan World Expo failed to induce economic growth in the Kansai region. Based on the results of our analysis, we develop a strategy aimed at reversing the prolonged stagnation of the region by taking advantage of the Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai. Specifically, we hold discussions with the economic community and the government in order to devise new tactics for attracting investments and human resources to potential growth industries in the Kansai region.

Research leader:

Yoshihisa INADA, Director of Research & Director of Center for Quantitative Economic Analysis, Asia Pacific Institute of Research (APIR)

 

Research outline:

Facing the evaporation of demand caused by COVID-19, tourism strategies have been forced to make a major shift from an emphasis on inbound tourism to high value-added tourism for both domestic and inbound visitors. In view of this shift, we analyze the current situation of municipalities and DMOs in the Kansai region, and examine issues and directions for solutions. We will also work to quantify the brand power of tourist destinations and create indicators that show the contribution of various environmental factors to the attractiveness of tourist destinations

Research leader:

Yoshihisa INADA, Director of Research & Director of Center for Quantitative Economic Analysis, Asia Pacific Institute of Research (APIR)

 

Research outline:

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a turning point for the inbound tourism industry. As an alternative to mass tourism, we need to develop a strategy that focuses on high added value in order to maximize tourists’ expenditure per capita. In order to prepare for the post-pandemic era, we analyze the current situation of inbound tourism in Kansai and identify its main challenges. In addition, we aim to create a “brand power” index for tourist destinations which will contribute directly to stimulating inbound tourism demand.