Bali Considers Japan's Tourist Management Tactics Amidst Rising Challenges

Bali has recently encountered issues with a minority of tourists displaying disrespectful or even illegal behavior. This longstanding issue has prompted considerations of adopting strategies from other nations such as Japan.

In the wake of the pandemic, Japan has attracted numerous Australian visitors, possibly outshining Bali. Known for its diverse attractions such as cultural sites, ski resorts, and bustling urban areas, Japan offers something for everyone.

One notable example comes from Kyoto’s Gion district, home to the geisha community. The district has faced challenges with tourists intruding into private spaces, taking unauthorized photographs, and generally disrupting the local ambiance. To manage this, the Kyoto government implemented restrictions on access to private areas and introduced fines for those caught photographing geishas without permission. 

Informational signs in both Japanese and English were erected to help maintain privacy while still welcoming visitors to public locations. Bali could potentially adopt similar strategies in areas like Penglipuran Village to manage overtourism.

Bali has also experienced tourists disregarding local customs, especially at religious sites. As a result, several initiatives have been put in place to promote mutual respect and inform tourists about appropriate behavior. One notable measure is the introduction of a tourism tax intended to fund environmental conservation and cultural preservation, although ensuring compliance has proven difficult.

Additionally, Bali has established Tourism Satpol Police Units that patrol popular tourist spots. These units, recognizable in their ranger-style uniforms and accompanied by trained Kintamani dogs, check for tourism tax compliance and educate tourists on local customs.

In a different vein, Bali's Canggu area has become a hotspot for tattoo enthusiasts, with local studios gaining recognition for blending traditional Balinese art with modern tattooing techniques. This evolution in the tattoo industry contributes to Bali's economy and cultural dialogue. Canggu's tattoo artists, skilled in both traditional and modern methods, are pivotal in educating visitors about the cultural importance of specific symbols and designs, which often have significant religious and cultural meanings.

This merging of tradition and modernity in Canggu illustrates Bali's broader strategy to integrate cultural tourism with contemporary arts, highlighting a balanced approach to preserving heritage while embracing new influences. This strategy reflects Bali’s dedication to maintaining high standards in tourism-related industries and fostering responsible tourism practices.