KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s natural beauty as well as its many attractions have the potential to entice and to leave a positive impression on Japanese visitors.

       This was apparent during Kiyoshi Fujita’s first visit to the state, when he lauded its wonders. Fujita is the Japan Travel Bureau (JTB) managing director for Malaysia and Sabah.

       Since his arrival to Sabah on Nov 13, Fujita has toured the Sunday Market, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring, Klias river cruise, and resorts, among others.

       He said Sabah was one of the focus destinations among the Japanese, and many had travelled to the state prior to the pandemic.

       “This is my first trip to Sabah and I’ve already visited a few interesting spots that are sure to be popular with the Japanese.

       “I’m quite impressed, and I’m sure Japanese tourists can’t wait to return to Sabah to experience it again,” Fujita said.

       On Tuesday, Fujita met with Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai to share his thoughts on the state’s prospects of attracting Japanese tourists.

       Meanwhile, Bangkuai believed Sabah and Japan share similar ideas about sustainable tourism and ecotourism.

       He said rural tourism would be a hit among Japanese tourists, where they could experience “shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing” – a concept used in Japan to encourage people to spend time in nature.

       “STB is always working with our partners in Japan to promote Sabah as a destination of choice,” he said.

       “Of course with the reopening of the international border next year, we are looking forward to welcoming our Japanese visitors,” Bangkuai added.

       Earlier on, Fujita also emphasised the importance of having strict standard operating procedures in the tourism industry, noting that the Japanese government is stringent about them.