The government plans to submit the bill to the Diet during the legislative session with the aim of putting it in force in April 2006. Officials hope it will help the transport ministry's "Visit Japan Campaign," which is designed to double the number of tourists from abroad to 10 million by 2010, according to the sources.

The bill, which would revise the law regarding attracting foreign visitors, includes a plan by the national government to offer subsidies to local governments that come up with promotional programs for foreign travelers.

The transport minister would designate the public transport services that must post signs and other guiding messages in foreign languages, including English, Chinese and Korean.

The Land, Infrastructure and Transport Ministry is eyeing train stations, airports, ports, passenger trains and aircraft as places where such signs should be posted, as well as having tickets and boarding passes carry information in foreign languages.

Regarding the regional guides, prefectural governments would oversee the licensing of people versed in local history, culture and tourist spots.

The Japan Times Weekly: Feb. 5, 2005
(C) All rights reserved