Regarding the Oct. 19 letter "Tourists treated differently": If Japan really wants to attract foreign tourists, it needs to acquire an authentic international sense. In my opinion, that means being able to appreciate foreign visitors as they are without relying on information from the media.
Two reasons why Japan seems unfriendly to some foreigners are (1) the perceived language barrier in the minds of Japanese people and (2) stereotypes and prejudices contrived by the media.
It's my guess that most Japanese think that perfect fluency in a foreign language is required to communicate with foreigners. As a result, many Japanese hesitate to talk with them. Moreover, Japanese people tend to focus on the reported negative aspects of nations they don't know very well. This mind-set makes it hard for them to welcome non-Japanese people.
I realized that through volunteer activities of language assistance for foreign travelers -- in which I participate regularly -- that this Japanese mind-set gives the wrong impression. Foreigners don't expect impeccable language ability. They would like to make contact with the real Japan by communicating with local people -- even if the locals have a limited vocabulary in their language.
And if Japanese talk more with foreigners, they may recognize that what they've been given to understand about a specific country through the news media doesn't always match what they feel once they've had a real conversation with a foreign visitor.
Although big campaigns by the newly established tourism agency will be necessary, small steps like volunteer activities by the general public are essential for growing an authentic international sense among Japanese people.
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