TOURISM AND JAPANESE POP CULTURE EVENTS:

INTERCULTURAL IMPACTS AND SYNERGIES.

Abstract

Authenticity and the quality of content are becoming progressively more distinguishing characteristics for affirming destinations. Globalization has promoted cultural exchange, and Japanese pop culture is an example. Due to its diverse elements that captivate different audiences, it has spread worldwide, causing fan movements, and influencing various events. This article examines the relationship between tourism, events, and Japanese pop culture, assessing the tourism potential of this trend and its effects on the destination and source. Through direct and participant observations at some of the most prominent events on this subject, questionnaires to participants from different nationalities, and interviews with Japanese pop culture event organizers, researchers in this field, enthusiastic participants, and other stakeholders, the optimal understanding of the relationship between this trend and events and tourism, still few explored, was achieved. It is disclosed that these events contribute significantly to the promotion of content tourism, the fostering of strong international relations, and the connection of cultures. The success of events conducted beyond one's home region is notably influenced by a multitude of continuous impacts and opportunities. These include the dynamic and social atmosphere of the events, which facilitates travel both within and between countries.