We recognise that in order to bring international tourists to Japan, it is also necessary to ensure that products and services offered by local businesses reflect their needs and requirements.
Japan Worldwide offers a consultancy service to local governments, resorts, hotels and restaurants to help ensure that such requirements can be met.
Local government consultancy services
Japan Worldwide works in close partnership with local governments, in particular the Yuzawa-machi and MinamiUonuma-shi local governments local to our Head Office.
As an example case study, in March 2006 Japan Worldwide was requested to a recommendation paper for a local town, highlighting areas where the town centre could improve signs and guidance for international visitors.
Whilst sign translation was a significant element to this project, of greater importance were consultancy and advisory aspects. For example, in our opinion the lack of visible street names in the town centre made for difficulties in navigation. Our recommendation was to highlight the streets that should be considered vital for navigation by foot, and to offer advice on design aspects.
This is a small example of the value that Japan Worldwide can offer to local governments, as part of the national campaign to increase inbound visitor numbers.
Japan Worldwide also undertakes translation work for the public sector. Our company undertook a project with the Yuzawa Tourism Association to provide an English language website for Yuzawa town. This project involved not only translation work, but also advice on suitable content for the website.
Local business consultancy services
Japan Worldwide offers consultancy and translation services to a wide range of local businesses - some examples can be seen below
Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort
Japan Worldwide helped this resort with various translation work for different areas of their business.
As an example, one of the problems with ski resorts is the issue of sizing for rental shops. Japan uses a centimetre measuring system for shoe sizes, whereas various western countries maintain their individual sizing methods.
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Hotel Sporea Yuzawa
Japan Worldwide advised Hotel Sporea Yuzawa in various areas, such as providing front office information, terms and conditions in hotel rooms, and information regarding the Japanese style of bathing in 'onsen' spas.
In this way, both customers and staff are helped to make guests' stay as convenient as possible
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Restaurant menu translation
Japan Worldwide has translated menus for various restaurants in Yuzawa town center, and further afield.
Restaurants place a distinctive sticker on their front door or window, so that western tourists are aware that they can order meals in English.
Via WeLoveSnow.com, Japan Worldwide also promotes these restaurants to its customers.
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