Latest news with #AzaleaFestival
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Yahoo
Japan, amid an unprecedented travel boom, is starting to charge tourists more to visit
There's a meme circulating that the average millennial midlife crisis unfolds like this: Take up running. Make house plants your entire personality. Buy an air fryer. Start planning a trip to Japan. First of all, ouch. But second of all, the accuracy. The allure of Japan has called to travellers (young and old, for the record) for years, but especially since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. The unique mix of cultural traditions and cutting-edge modernity, its emphasis on wellness and aesthetic of comfort, and its natural landscapes and popular attractions are just part of what makes Japan so appealing to many. Last year, Japan was named the best country to visit in the world by the Conde Nast Readers' Choice Awards. And now, bolstered by a weak yen, it's also more affordable, leading to an unprecedented travel boom that saw the country cross the 10-million visitor mark at its fastest-ever pace this year. For many, it's a welcome boost, after tourism to Japan was all but halted for more than two years during the pandemic, as the country put up some of the world's strictest border controls. Visitors stroll through the grounds of Nezu Shrine during the annual Azalea Festival in Tokyo on April 17. (Richard A. Brooks/AFP/Getty Images) But now as Japan grapples with the surge, it has a new problem: overtourism, with crowds affecting everything from some of its most sacred traditions to increasing housing and hotel prices. "I'm happy there are so many visitors to Japan, but I'm agonizing every day," Yoshiki Kojima, who owns an IT company, told the Japan Times in January about his struggles to find affordable hotel rooms for his employees when they travel to Tokyo. "I've already given up," Natsuki Sato, a mother who realized she could not afford to buy a home because she lives near a popular ski resort where tourism has driven up property prices, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on April 12. And now, to help cope, some of Japan's most popular tourism destinations are reportedly rolling out a two-tier pricing system on everything from restaurants to theme visits on the rise Arrivals of foreign visitors for business and leisure reached 3.5 million last month, bringing the total through the first quarter to 10.54 million, data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) showed. Last year, Japan reached 10 million visitors in April. For the whole of 2025, tourist arrivals are on pace to eclipse last year's all-time level of 36.87 million. The nation's famed cherry blossom season helped boost demand in March, which saw record arrivals for any single month among travellers from the United States and Canada, the JNTO said. And Canada was among the top 20 countries whose residents have visited Japan recently, with 44,500 visits from Canadians recorded in February alone, up 31 per cent from last February. Over 550,000 Canadian tourists visited last year, up 37 per cent from the year before. Right now, $1 Cdn gets you about 103 yen — or in other words, a bowl of ramen can cost about $5, and a standard hotel room about $200 a night. The weakness of the yen against the Canadian dollar is a big draw right now, says Aaron Petrowitsch, 32, a Calgarian who travelled to Tokyo and Kyoto for his honeymoon in February. "A lot of people don't want to travel to the States right now, and fair enough," Petrowitsch told CBC News. "But looking at other places where your money goes a long way, Japan is definitely one of those places." He and his wife Sarah had originally planned a trip to Japan in 2020, which they had to cancel due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. When they rebooked for their honeymoon, Petrowitsch says he was pleasantly surprised that the trip would be more affordable than it would have been five years ago. "It's getting more and more popular, that's for sure," Petrowitsch said, adding that about two weeks after he got back to Calgary, a colleague of his travelled to Japan with his girlfriend, and he knows at least one other colleague planning a trip. Aaron Petrowitsch, left, and Sarah Petrowitsch, of Calgary, are seen here visiting Mount Fuji in Japan in February 2025. Japan recorded 44,500 visits from Canadians in February alone. (Aaron Petrowitsch) Overtourism But as more tourists flock to Japan, many of them inspired by social media, what's called overtourism has become a hot topic. "The issue is not so much with too many people going to Japan, but with too many people going to the same places while they're there," James Mundy of Inside Japan explained on the Responsible Travel website. "What tourists and local communities want to do is not sometimes harmonized," Kenji Hamamoto of the Japan Tourism Agency told Travel Voice, a Japanese travel news site, in January. This picture taken on July 3, 2023 shows tourists posing for photographs with former sumo wrestlers at the Yokozuna Tonkatsu Dosukoi Tanaka restaurant in Tokyo. (Yuichi Yamakazi/AFP/Getty Images) Some regions and attractions have taken extra measures. The historic geisha district of Gion in Kyoto, for instance, has banned tourists from some of its alleyways and private streets in an attempt to control those who have reportedly tried to force geisha and maiko to pose for photos or touched their kimonos. Tourists flocking Kamakura for a photo op have become so problematic that the town had to add security guards to keep people away from its famed railway crossing. And in Fujikawaguchiko, so many people have blocked roads or trespassed to get an Instagram-famous photo of the Lawson Convenience Shop by Mount Fuji that authorities had to put up a barrier to block the view. (They eventually, quietly, took it back down, CNN reports.) Meanwhile, a 400-year-old temple in Kyoto has been plagued by litter and unauthorized photo shoots. And Mount Fuji has become so overcrowded and littered by tourists that some have called it "trash mountain." A worker installs a barrier to block the sight of Japan's Mount Fuji emerging from behind a convenience store to deter badly behaved tourists, in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi prefecture in May 2024. (Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty Images) Two-tier pricing? To manage overtourism, some tourist hotspots are increasing their prices. Starting in July, anyone who climbs Mount Fuji will have to pay 4,000 yen, or about $39 Cdn, for a permit — double the price of last year's so-called "tourist tax." Starting next year, Himeji Castle in western Japan will charge tourists more than double its normal rate. A new nature-themed park called Junglia Okinawa is charging 8,000 yen for a one-day pass for tourists, versus 6,300 yen for citizens. It's been reported that some restaurants are charging a tourist tax, such as an all-you-can-eat seafood restaurant in Tokyo that offers a discount for residents of Japan. And in 2023, officials rolled out a 100-yen tourist tax to visitors at Miyajima, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine, to anyone entering "by boat." Petrowitsch, from Calgary, says he didn't really notice a two-tier system on his visit, and when there was a lower price for Japanese locals, it was "minimal." He also says it likely won't deter him from visiting again, unless the price difference becomes drastic. "We had such a great time." Foreign and domestic visitors crowd the street at the popular tourist area of Tsukiji fish market as the country marks the 'Golden Week' holidays in central Tokyo on April 30, 2024. (Richard A. Brooks/AFP/Getty Images)
Forbes
17-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Building A Multi-Million Dollar Business While Traveling The World
Scaling businesses requires dedication and skill, but it doesn't necessarily require being restricted to a single location. Global mobility, along with several other practices, can be one key to success in growing a brand. Here's how one might build a multi-million dollar business while traveling the world. Visitors stroll through the grounds of Nezu Shrine during the annual Azalea Festival in Tokyo on ... More April 17, 2025. (Photo by Richard A. Brooks / AFP) (Photo by RICHARD A. BROOKS/AFP via Getty Images) Digital platforms make reaching potential customers worldwide from an entrepreneur's home base easier, even on a relatively small budget. Eventually, traveling to conferences, client meetings, and potential markets becomes pivotal to growth and developing a well-rounded business strategy. Entrepreneurs who can visit various spots around the globe can attain a competitive edge in several ways. Whether the destination is nearby or on the other side of the world, the benefits can include: In addition to gaining a new perspective from the conversations and activities, each trip can be exciting and help reinforce a winning mindset. Specifically, Parm Kals, CEO of Espy Agency, credits location independence with his ability to collaborate with high-profile individuals, musicians, and international companies seeking well-crafted and personalized digital marketing campaigns. For instance, he uses his viral marketing expertise in the global music industry. This sector is projecting an 11.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2030. With over a decade of experience in social media and music marketing, he has helped expand their customer base and create trends for businesses in multiple industries without geographic limitations. His journeys around the globe refine his vision and campaign strategies by engaging with business leaders and comprehending consumer needs firsthand in numerous markets. Resilience and adaptability are two indispensable traits for entrepreneurial success in today's fast-paced environment. Market trends and customer expectations continuously change. Drawing on his experience, Parm Kals suggests embracing setbacks as opportunities to grow and remaining committed to the vision when faced with obstacles. Moreover, it's vital to anticipate change instead of reacting to it to stay ahead of the curve. 'Entrepreneurship is about vision, resilience, and relentless pursuit,' says Kals. 'I built Espy Agency not just to follow trends but to shape the future of marketing.' Parm Kals, CEO of Espy Agency Commit to pushing boundaries that can inspire others to think bigger, act boldly, and aim higher. Inspirational, forward-thinking messaging helps people realize there is no limit to what can be achieved. This success can also help connect and elevate brands more effectively on a global scale. Inexperienced leaders and brand-new startups may flirt with burnout due to pursuing too much at once. Sustainable growth should be the core focus. This goal takes time, and learning how to balance ambition and patience is essential. Picking the right team and careful planning also make achieving this goal easier and becoming resilient. Staying flexible is also important to remember. Kals has learned the importance of prioritizing long-term goals over short-term wins. While the latter can seem critical to achieving initial success, unsustainable rapid expansion can impede refining processes and ensuring that each decision aligns with the company's vision. Acting aggressively during the early stages is still important, as a hesitant or risk-averse mindset can have a greater impact than failure. To achieve goals, it is necessary to periodically step outside your comfort zone, embrace calculated risks, and trust your instincts. Even when facing uncertainty, taking decisive action is an opportunity to learn or adapt. Networking and market research help procure credible insights, enabling informed decisions about handling current administrative tasks and positioning for the future. Social media is indispensable for shoppers and sellers. According to GRIN's 2024 Modern Consumer Survey, 74% of consumers are influenced by content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube when deciding what to purchase or listen to. Millennials and Gen Z households increasingly gravitate toward social media and video product reviews to make informed decisions instead of relying on written content or going directly to a brand's website. The same study indicates that 68% of shoppers have purchased products directly from social media apps. Regarding travel planning, a similar percentage of households chose a particular theme park or vacation destination because of social media recommendations. In most instances, social channels are the primary way customers discover businesses. Therefore, maintaining accounts in multiple digital communities allows us to engage with people from many backgrounds and run personalized, data-driven campaigns that target an audience with specific interests and purchase histories. Social media influence extends beyond shopping decisions. As an additional statistic, viral songs can increase by over 500% within a week of trending on streaming platforms. This engagement helps artists push into the forefront with future releases. Online platforms are a great way to promote items for sale. Social listening also gathers direct feedback and tracks mentions and discussions that traditional marketing practices cannot. Changing trends and customer expectations can require established businesses to innovate to remain competitive or diversify income streams to unlock potential. Successful re-branding can increase average revenue by 10% to 20% within the first year. This strategy can involve the following actions: Depending on the circumstances, your current products may be outdated due to new technology or the evolving needs of existing customers. The market may also be saturated, eliminating your competitive advantage and the ability to earn sustainable profits. Many businesses also adopting AI to automate and improve various administrative and production processes. This emerging technology can make it easier to analyze data, plan campaigns, and pivot sooner. Another possibility is to start a loyalty program that rewards frequent customers and encourages others to engage more with your company. McKinsey states that this initiative can increase satisfaction and engagement by 30% and acquire more shoppers. Implementing several of these actions can increase brand recognition which helps retain long-term customers and attract new prospects. The Edelman Trust Barometer reports that 88% of consumers desire authenticity when comparing brands. They are more likely to support individuals and businesses who stay true to their core mission, even when adjusting to changing market conditions. Shoppers have many choices and winning trust is crucial for long-term success. Identifying with their culture helps establish a relationship. Next, provide quality and value with each interaction to increase the likelihood of repeat customers and referrals within their network. Consistency, transparency, and genuinely caring about customers also help build trust. Several components help any business thrive and better serve its customers. Listening to feedback, understanding their values, and innovating with a multi-year vision is an excellent foundation when trying to build a multi-million dollar business. Digital communication and travel also play a part in forming authentic relationships with a promising future. Related Articles:
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Welcome to Azalea Festival weekend: We've got you covered, Wilmington
Welcome to the weekly Port City Life newsletter brought to you by me, StarNews cultural issues reporter John Staton. The 78th annual N.C. Azalea Festival started on Wednesday with the crowning of Queen LXXVIII Azalea Bethany Joy Lenz, and we've got all of the festival coverage you could ever want right here in the StarNews. We've got events to know about, we've got festival history, and we'll have photos, stories and much, much more every day until the festival wraps on Sunday. For details about this weekend's festival, and other events, read on. It's going to be a warm Azalea Festival weekend, with high temps well above normal. Overcast Friday and Saturday with highs in the low-to-mid 80s. Winds will get a bit gusty on Sunday as a cold front moves in, with a high near 80. Hot stuff: What's the weather forecast for this week's Azalea Festival in Wilmington? Tons going on for the N.C. Azalea Festival this weekend, both official festival events and events hoping to take advantage of the big crowds in town for the fest. For starters, four new plays open on area stages: the musical "Mary Poppins" on Thalian Hall's main stage, bracing drama "God of Carnage" in Thalian's studio theater, English comedy of manners "Blithe Spirit" at University of North Carolina Wilmington, and Moliere's 17th century classic "Tartuffe" at Cape Fear Community College. Plus, Wilmington pop-rock band Kicking Bird debuts its new album Friday night at Satellite, and the massive Alt-Zalea music festival returns to the Brooklyn Arts District for the 10th year on Saturday. Link to full list below. Happenings: 19 things to do for Azalea Festival weekend in Wilmington, including non-festival options Food writer Allison Ballard clues you in on five Wilmington-area bakeries where you can get fresh bread. Plus, a slider chain is looking to come to Wilmington, and we've got news about several planned new locations for Cape Fear Seafood Company. A movie with a Wilmington connection is coming to the Disney+ streaming service. "Not Just a Goof," a documentary about animated Disney film "A Goofy Movie," will hit Disney+ on Monday, April 7. The producer of "Not Just a Goof" is Scott Seibold, a native of Wilmington, and he fell in love with film right here in the Port City. 'Not Just a Goof': Wilmington native lands making-of documentary about a beloved 'Goofy' film on Disney+ A star of red-hot HBO Max drama "The White Lotus" has been in Wilmington making a movie. We've got words and pics. Plus, a Wilmington singer makes it to the brink of elimination on "American Idol," and more development is heading to Carolina Beach Road. Brooke Renshaw: Wilmington singer makes it to the brink of elimination on 'American Idol' For updates to food and entertainment stories, follow us on Facebook at Forward this newsletter to family and friends. They can sign up here. This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: What do in Wilmington for the 2025 NC Azalea Festival
Yahoo
02-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Spring lights to illuminate Battleship NC for the Azalea Festival. Here's when to see it
Battleship North Carolina is ready to get into the N.C. Azalea Festival spirit. The USS North Carolina Battleship Commission, in partnership with the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina, announced that the Battleship will be lit to impress with spring colors to celebrate the festival, according to a news release. Here's what to know. The Battleship's uplighting takes center stage throughout the extended weekend from Thursday, April 3-Sunday, April 6, from 7:30-9 p.m. The best place to enjoy the uplighting is from across the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington. Viewers and photographers on the Riverwalk, as well as the hospitality locations in downtown Wilmington, will have prime locations to enjoy the illuminated Battleship. Look for pops of pink, purple, and yellow to highlight the Battleship's historic silhouette. "As the official sponsors of the Azalea Festival fireworks, we are honored to contribute extra brilliance for the event series," said Dr. Jay Martin, Executive Director, Battleship North Carolina Memorial, in a news release. "Seeing the uplighting in-person is a memorable experience for both locals and visitors, so we are thankful for our outstanding partners with the Azalea Festival." Battleship grounds, parking lot, and SECU Walkway are closed every day at 5 p.m. and will be closed during lighting. Saturday's Boom & Bloom Fireworks Bonanza is a ticketed event. No outside parking will be available, with grounds and walkway closed. Battleship North Carolina is a decommissioned World War II warship, permanently moored as a memorial and state historic site on the Cape Fear River at Wilmington. The Battleship commemorates the heroism of U.S. sailors and soldiers from North Carolina during World War II. Cheryl M. Whitaker covers community news for the StarNews. Reach her at This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Battleship NC in Wilmington to get uplighting for Azalea Festival
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Yahoo
Spring blooms: Where to see tulips, azaleas, cherry blossom trees blooming in Oklahoma
Flowers are blooming across the state in a bright rainbow of colors, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch them in their beauty. From tulips to cherry blossoms, and azaleas to daffodils, spring flowers in Oklahoma are a sight to see. Here are several flower festivals or locations where you can experience the blooms of the season. For its third year, the Myriad Botanical Gardens Tulip Festival is "bigger than ever." From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on March 29 and 30, see the array of tulips blooming and take advantage of the photo ops. There will also be live performances, vendors, food and activities for kids. The largest collection of cherry blossom trees in Oklahoma belongs to Tulsa's Gathering Place park, where the trees are currently in full bloom. If you can't make it to Tulsa before they pass their peak, you can also see cherry blossom trees at Myriad Botanical Gardens and Will Rogers Gardens in Oklahoma City. Throughout the month of April, visit Honor Heights Park in Muskogee, Oklahoma, for the iconic Azalea Festival which draws thousands of spectators each year. During the festival, there is free admission to the Papilion Gardens, found inside the park. Also in eastern Oklahoma, the Tulsa Botanical Garden is hosting its annual flower festival, Tulsa Botanic BLOOMS!, which started March 20 and runs through April 27. More than 170,450 spring flowering bulbs were planted for this year's display, including daffodils, hyacinths and tulips. Check out the BLOOMS tracker at This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC tulip festival, cherry blossoms: Where to spot blooms this spring
