Tourism Tochigi farm sojourns popular with foreign tourists

About 150 foreign guests stayed at the hotel for six months. "Foreigners prefer to stay in the countryside in a relaxed way. We want to prepare programs for them to enjoy making umeshu (Japanese plum wine), miso and other experiences in the future," Sasaki said. Ohtawara Tourism works with about 180 farmers, mainly in the city, and tries to attract foreign tourists, as well as elementary and junior high school students, and group tourists to rural villages by offering them farm stays and experiences, among other activities. The development of farmhouse-style hotels is part of its activities. Ohtawara Tourism and local farmers have worked together to develop such hotels, and there are currently six such facilities. In the past fiscal year, 7,865 people participated in farm-stay programs in which the organization was involved, a record high since it began operations in 2012. Of those, 1,234 were foreigners. While Sasaki and her husband speak English, other facilities whose staff are not fluent in foreign languages are said to be able to accommodate foreign guests with the help of translation apps. Programs that offer authentic farming experiences and interactions with local farmers in a rich natural environment are popular, according to Ohtawara Tourism. Daisuke Fujii, the organization's president, said, "Foreigners are willing to visit rural villages, even if they are less accessible, as long as they promote their attractions." The Ohtawara city government is promoting tourism with a focus on agriculture.

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