In recent years, “pilgrimages to sacred places” to visit places where anime and manga have been set have been attracting attention as a new form of tourism. This article will explain the “pilgrimage to sacred places” phenomenon and anime tourism based on the sources provided.
Economic Effects of “Holy Land Pilgrimage”
According to the source, the town of Oarai, Ibaraki Prefecture, where Girls und Panzer is set, has successfully revitalized itself through pilgrimages to holy places. In addition to visiting places that appear in the film, the local government and private sector have cooperated in a variety of efforts, including the operation of wrapped vehicles, collaborative projects at lodging facilities, and the use of related products as tax returns for hometown tax payments. As a result, railroad companies that had been in the red for many years have returned to profitability, contributing greatly to the revitalization of the local economy.
What Holy Land Pilgrimages Bring
In addition to economic benefits, pilgrimages to sacred places bring a variety of other benefits.
A Deeper Understanding of the Work
By actually visiting the places where the anime took place, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the work's worldview.
Interaction with Local Residents
Pilgrimages to sacred places can lead to interaction with local residents. Communicating the charms of the local community through animation can lead to a deeper attachment to the community.
Contribution to Regional Revitalization
The increase in the number of tourists who make pilgrimages to sacred places can lead to the use of local restaurants and lodging facilities and the purchase of local products, thereby contributing to the revitalization of the local economy.
Challenges and Solutions Associated with Pilgrimages to Sacred Sites
On the other hand, problems associated with pilgrimages to sacred places have been pointed out.
Invasion of Privacy
If the place where the work is set is a private residence or private property, unauthorized photography or visits by fans may lead to an invasion of privacy.
Noise and Litter Problems
The increase in the number of fans visiting sacred sites may cause noise and litter problems.
Decrease in Tourists After the End of the Boom
After the boom in pilgrimages to sacred sites has passed, the number of tourists may decrease.
Copyright Issues
Selling products or holding events that use anime characters or worldviews requires permission from the copyright holders.
In order to solve these problems, it is important for fans, local governments, and companies to cooperate in conducting pilgrimages to sacred sites, observing rules and manners. For example, the source provides an example of the Oarai-cho Chamber of Commerce and Industry holding a “Gal Pan Consultation Meeting” to provide consultation on copyright issues.
The Future of Anime Sanctuaries
Anime sanctuaries have the potential to contribute to regional revitalization by communicating the appeal of their works. It is expected that fans, local governments, and companies will continue to cooperate to promote anime tourism in a sustainable manner.
Supplement
* The source states that anime production companies are concentrated in the northwestern part of Tokyo's 23 wards, and that some towns, such as Shibuya, are less likely to become sacred places.
* Some of the information about pilgrimages to anime holy sites is based on my own experience and knowledge.