Research on the design and effectiveness of tours that involve participants as “related populations”

Abstract

The government advocates creating a “related population” people engaging with communities in various ways as society faces population decline. Across Japan, initiatives promote this concept, emphasizing local exchange, but the reality of tours that contribute to the creation of a related population remains unclear. This study explores how local exchange in tours influence participants' awareness and connections. A tour was designed and conducted to examine its effects. The results of a survey of participant observations and interviews with attendees and locals revealed local exchange helped build relationships, encouraging participants to stay engaged with the community.