Online tours gaining popularity in Japan

Online travel is experiencing a boom in Japan with some tour products allowing participants to view countryside scenery, interact with locals, and enjoy local specialties.

Travel companies are trying to meet growing needs from consumers refraining from long-distance trips with online tours, generally starting at less than $28.

Hankyu Travel International Co.'s online tour featuring sightseeing spots in Chiba Prefecture, including Kameiwa Cave in the city of Kimitsu, and Mount Nokogiri, where people can enjoy a panoramic view of the Boso Peninsula, is gaining popularity.

JTB Corp., a leadingtravel agency, offers an online tour to the remote island of Hachijojima in Tokyo, where participants can cook local dishes with the female manager of a guesthouse.

Meanwhile, Japan Airlines is offering an event where participants could enjoy the scenic views of the island town of Ama, Shimane Prefecture, and interact with locals.

There are also tour products designed to support local businesses struggling with a decrease in the number of tourists due to the coronavirus crisis.