■ From “Tourist” to “Resident”

Over the past few years, the profile of foreigners visiting Japan has been gradually shifting. Previously, the mainstream consisted of “short-term tourists” walking the streets with cameras in hand. Recently, however, there is a noticeable movement of people who want to “live long-term” or “have a base” here. The traditional inbound tourism (spending by foreign visitors for sightseeing) has run its course, and we are now entering the next stage: the expansion of “Japan as a lifestyle.” 💬