Design Thinking Approach for Inbound Tourism Planning

A Trial・Planning a Sightseeing Tour of Tokyo Metropolitan Area for Chinese University Students: A Case Study

Abstract

Abstract: Despite the widespread recognition of design thinking in Japan, its practical application in inbound tourism planning remains limited. This study attempted to use design thinking to develop a personalized sightseeing tour of the Tokyo metropolitan area for Chinese university students. However, the results were unsatisfactory due to challenges such as poor workshop facilitation, mismatched themes and methodologies, and difficulties for participants. This research highlights the obstacles encountered when implementing design thinking in practice and provides recommendations for improving its application in creating tailor-made tour programs for international student groups.