Wednesday, 7 December 2011

Tourism impacts on the authentic culture

With globalization, many countries are going into modernity and Japan is one of them. This leads to them being more open to pornography which contrasts with the conservative Japanese in the past. That could also cause ethical issues.

Environmental
To attract tourist into the country, Japan has since tear down villages to build infrastructures and buildings that has a theme to it. It has also cause destructions of the ecosystems and wildlife of Japan. Thus, natural resources are depleted.

Socio-cultural
For the Ainu people, it is visible that there is loss of authenticity among them. They are ashamed of their own culture and tribe and refuse to acknowledge that they belong to this indigenous group.

The Ainu museum is built to adapt to tourist demands, this is to show how an Ainu village and its culture and traditions are like.
One of the obvious commodification of Japan tradition is the development of Kimono in different styles. Some has used the idea of kimono to create into short and sexy dresses and that is the complete opposite of what the conservative Japanese had.
The host community could also be irritated due to tourist behavior. Blowing nose in public is socially unaccepted for the Japanese. They also do not show love affection openly. Hence, the more passionate tourist may need to take note of this factor.

However, it causes positive impacts as well. Firstly, tourism could act as a force for peace as it brings people into contact with each other. This could also open up business and love opportunities for travellers. As they exchange conversations, they could share about each other’s cultures and customs which will lead to understanding and reduce prejudice.

Secondly, facilities that are built for tourism can also be beneficial for the locals. They will be able to experience higher level of service rendered.

Thirdly, though natural and cultural sites may be destroyed for tourism purpose, it also raises awareness of the financial value of it thus stimulating pride in their heritage.

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