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On September 21, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the 23rd meeting of the Tourism Strategy Promotion Council at the Prime Minister’s Office.
 
At the meeting, a discussion was held on measures to improve the arrangements for foreign tourists during times of disasters, and measures to dispel harmful rumors or misinformation that are circulating as a result of the disasters that occurred in September 2018 (Typhoon No. 21,^* Hokkaido Eastern Iburi Earthquake), among other matters.
 
Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said,
 
“Tourism is a trigger of regional revitalization. Foreign tourists seek scenery and experiences that are unique to each area, which offers great opportunities for all regions.
 
Meanwhile, the recent series of natural disasters that struck Japan has had a significant impact, resulting in a large number of cancelled reservations at sightseeing destinations, for example. Having visited the sites affected by the disasters, I strongly feel that we must help these regions recover at the earliest possible date.
 
To begin with, in the recent disasters, foreign tourists did not have sufficient access to information. Based on the views expressed by the experts, we will take every possible measure to ensure that foreign tourists can travel throughout Japan with peace of mind even in the event of a disaster.  
 
Secondly, we will take seriously the views presented by the experts today and the voices from the affected areas, and take resolute steps to dispel the harmful rumors or misinformation related to tourism. Using all means at our disposal, including traditional media and social media, we will effectively spread the message to the world that it is safe to visit Japan. In addition, we will swiftly introduce discounts on accommodation in all areas of Hokkaido where the harmful rumors and misinformation have caused great damage.
 
I ask that all ministers exert every effort to implement measures towards our goal of welcoming 40 million foreign tourists to Japan per year by 2020.”
 
^*Typhoon Jebi