Evaluation of Destination Management as Integrated Tourism Policy

Abstract

A basic law for tourism development in Japan has been enforced in 2007, and strengthening tourism administration as an integrated policy has been recommended at the level of local government. This integrated administration progresses along three lines: (1) with other administrative posts, (2) between different administrative subjects such as countries and prefectures, (3) with private sector undertakings like industry and resident groups. At present, the evaluation of tourism destination management is less prevalent as compared to that of enterprises, which are evaluated in many ways. However, it is crucial to evaluate whether the tourism policy is appropriately implemented for not only tourism entrepreneurs but also residents. Moreover, it is useful to compile an index for the stakeholder beyond the border, containing information such as that regarding the central government, holder of the municipal bond or land, and financial institutions that have invested in the region. However, it is necessary to combine the techniques of tourism statistics and administrative evaluation to maintain such an index.