Memorable tourism experiences: An exploratory study of experiences using quantitative text analysis

Abstract

Memorable Tourism Experiences (MTEs) are experiences clearly remembered or recalled after an event has ended. This study aimed to determine the types of sightseeing trips, specific most memorable experiences, and the characteristics of MTEs by the age group of those that conducted the trips. A survey was conducted on 1,200 Japanese individuals to gather information about their most memorable sightseeing trips at different stages of their lives. Using analyses, MTEs were classified into nine groups: such as shared experiences with accompanying family and friends, novel experiences such as a first trip abroad, aesthetic experiences of natural scenery and gastronomy, and mobile experiences of traveling around Hokkaido and Kyushu. Analyses by age group indicated that MTEs also shifted with the life stage. Afterwards, we discussed the experiences with significant others at each life stage and concluded that milestone trips marking life transitions are more likely to be remembered.