In an effort to revitalize tourism from Japan to Macau, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is set to embark on its first major roadshow of the year in Tokyo. This three-day event, slated to kick off on Friday, brings together all six Macau concessionaires and key players from the travel industry. It marks a significant initiative aimed at reversing the decline in Japanese visitors to Macau, a trend observed since 2019.
Contextualizing the Decline
Macau, known for its vibrant tourism industry, experienced a notable drop in Japanese visitors over the past few years. In 2019, the SAR welcomed nearly 300,000 Japanese tourists, making Japan its third largest international source market. However, by 2023, this figure dwindled to a mere 75,155 visitors, causing Japan to slip to the eighth position among Macau’s international source markets. This decline prompted the MGTO to devise strategic interventions to reignite interest in Macau among Japanese travelers.
Strategic Roadshow in Tokyo
Tokyo, being a pivotal hub for business and tourism in Japan, has been selected as the venue for Macau’s inaugural roadshow of the year. The event, scheduled to take place at COREDO Muromachi Terrace, is strategically located in a bustling business district near Tokyo Station, attracting approximately 500,000 professionals within a one-kilometer radius. This choice of venue ensures maximum exposure and engagement with key stakeholders in the Japanese tourism industry.
Integrated Approach: “Tourism +”
The roadshow embodies Macau’s innovative approach of blending tourism with other sectors, aptly termed “tourism +”. It provides a platform for Air Macau and the six integrated resort operators to showcase their tourism offerings. These participants will leverage the event to unveil special promotions and packages aimed at enhancing Macau’s appeal as a premier destination for Japanese travelers.
Pre-Roadshow Engagement
Prior to the commencement of the roadshow, the MGTO undertook proactive measures to engage with the local tourism industry in Tokyo. A meeting held on March 6th witnessed the participation of representatives from the six Macau concessionaires, along with over 210 attendees from the Japanese tourism sector. This collaborative dialogue laid the groundwork for fruitful partnerships and collaborations during the roadshow.
Strategic Promotions and Campaigns
In response to the evolving tourism landscape, the MGTO has rolled out targeted promotions and campaigns to entice international visitors, including those from Japan. Special initiatives covering airfare discounts, cross-border transportation, and accommodation have been launched to incentivize travel to Macau. Multi-channel publicity campaigns have been deployed to amplify Macau’s allure across short-, medium-, and long-haul international markets.
Resumption of Flights
As of January, Macau has resumed flight operations to and from Tokyo and Osaka, with one daily flight each. This reinstatement of air connectivity underscores Macau’s commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences for Japanese visitors.
The upcoming roadshow in Tokyo symbolizes Macau’s proactive stance in reviving Japanese tourism post-pandemic. Through strategic collaborations, innovative promotions, and targeted engagements, Macau aims to reposition itself as a top choice for Japanese travelers seeking unique and immersive experiences. As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, Macau remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering sustainable growth and resilience in its tourism sector.