Adapting to health crisis at Japanese hot springs: Understanding visitor travel intention and perceptions of countermeasures

Abstract

Japan's hot spring tourism, vital for rural economies, faced major setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic. While research on travel intentions during health crises exists, there is limited exploration of public perceptions of health risk countermeasures in hot spring tourism. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the countermeasures implemented by hot spring operators in Japan and their perceived effectiveness by the public. A case study in disaster-affected areas reveals the challenges operators faced and how countermeasures influenced travel intentions, with demographic factors playing a key role in perceptions of effectiveness. This study makes several contributions: it is the first to explore public perceptions of health countermeasures in hot spring tourism, advancing the field of adaptive tourism by highlighting the importance of health protocols in rebuilding tourism industries after a crisis. Findings suggest that sanitation measures were viewed as the most effective, and operators can better allocate resources by focusing on these areas. Moreover, clear communication about countermeasures is crucial for boosting visitor confidence and facilitating recovery. Despite its focus on Japan and reliance on self-reported data, this research provides valuable insights for hot spring managers worldwide. The study's findings offer practical guidance on prioritizing countermeasures and developing targeted marketing strategies to different demographic groups, contributing to the revitalization of the sector post-pandemic.