Japanese Town Takes Drastic Measures to Keep Tourists Away
Fujikawaguchiko, a small town in Japan with a population of just over 30,000, has been hit hard by the scourge of tourists. The town, known for its scenic photo spots that offer the perfect view of Mount Fuji, is sick and tired of being a popular destination for travelers from around the world. So, they have taken drastic measures to keep them away.
On Tuesday, the town began constructing a large black screen on a stretch of sidewalk that blocks the view of the mountain. The move has angered tourists and residents alike, who have called the move “ridiculous” and “short-sighted.”
But the town council is unapologetic. They argue that they have been pushed to this extreme measure after years of dealing with the mass influx of tourists. The town’s mayor, Yasuo Shibata, explained, “We have simply had enough. We cannot take any more. The tourists are ruining our peaceful way of life, and we need to take action.”
The black screen is just the first step in the town’s plan to keep tourists away. Shibata hinted that more measures are on the way, including limiting the number of buses that can enter the town and increasing the price of entry visas for foreigners.
The move has already attracted attention from around the world, with many criticizing the town’s decision. One tourist, who had traveled from Australia to see the mountain, said, “I saved up for a year for this trip. It’s so disappointing to come all this way and not be able to see the mountain.”
But the town council is unapologetic. They argue that they have the right to protect their town and their residents’ way of life. They claim that the tourists are disruptive, leaving litter and taking up space in the already overcrowded town.
The move has also sparked debate online, with many mocking the town’s decision. One Twitter user, going under the handle @mountainlover69, wrote, “Can’t wait to go to Fujikawaguchiko and take pictures of the black screen blocking Mount Fuji. #sarcasm #notreally.”
Another social media user, going by the name @touristguru, said, “I can’t believe the town would go to such lengths. But hey, I guess they don’t need our tourist dollars. #sarcasm #eyeroll.”
The town council is adamant that they are doing the right thing, and have urged tourists to respect their decision. Shibata said, “We understand that tourists want to see the mountain. But we also need to protect our town and our way of life. We are not anti-tourist, we are simply trying to find a balance.”
Only time will tell if the town’s drastic measures will be effective in keeping tourists away. But one thing is for sure, the black screen has already become a symbol of the town’s determination to take back control.
