THE JITTI JOURNAL

Volume 13 Issue 4

July 2026

Welcome

The World Cup 2026 final happens this weekend, with Spain and Argentina hoping to become the victor. Over the last few weeks, we've cheered on teams from around the globe and bore witness to the dedication, talent, and perseverance of athletes in their chosen craft- soccer.

Beyond the sport, however, is also the human connection. Athletes shaking hands with other athletes, fans embracing other fans, and people mixing with other people from all over the world. When the World Cup ends and people return to their home countries, we hope these feelings of camaraderie spread with them.

Best of luck to Spain and Argentina!

Introducing New JITTI USA Leadership

We are pleased to announce the following appointments among JITTI leadership, which both occurred this month. We look forward to you meeting President Sasaki and Mr. Yamashita, and appreciate your continued support of JITTI.

Ryo Sasaki

President, JITTI USA

July 2026~

President Sasaki also serves the following positions at JTTRI:

President for International Affairs

President, ASEAN-India Regional Office

Member of Board of Directors

Yosuke Yamashita

Senior Representative/Senior Research Fellow, JITTI USA

July 2026~

Read Mr. Yamashita's Self-Introduction

In This Issue

Feature Article:

Balancing Tourism Growth and Community Well-being: Japan’s Approach to Sustainable Tourism

by Haruhiko Koyama

Japan began advancing sustainable tourism before the pandemic, and record-breaking visitor growth has made destination management more important. This article looks at how Japan is using its latest tourism plan and related initiatives to manage growth while supporting local communities and maintaining residents’ support for tourism in the long run.

Cultural Article:

Tsukimi- Moon Viewing

by Kotaro Yamamoto

In Japan, there is a tradition called “Tsukimi” in which people gaze at the mid-autumn moon. Often called the "Harvest Moon" in English, this full moon appears in the sky around the time rice is ready for reaping in Japan. With rice's importance as a staple in the Japanese diet, Tsukimi events offer a chance to celebrate and pray for a bountiful harvest. Learn about Tsukimi traditions, including its decorations, common celebratory foods, and how you might participate in the future.

Read the Feature Article

Read the Cultural Article

Narita airport operator to start land expropriation process for new runway

Japan's maglev project moving again after Shizuoka green light

4 Japan-Linked Vessels Still Remain in Persian Gulf

Over 70% of accommodations in Japan say they are understaffed amid tourism influx

Read full article overviews on the JITTI LinkedIn Page, and follow along each week to our Articles of Note on X

New Published Research

JITTI USA analysts produce reports on timely US-Japan transportation and tourism issues. These reports are now published in English on our website! Why not check them out?

Our most recent reports:

U.S. Trends in AAM Policy and Related Developments ~Advanced Air Mobility Comprehensive Plan 2025 ~

The Rise, Bankruptcy, and Cessation of Spirit Airlines

Read the Reports

Final Thoughts

Thank you for reading the JITTI Journal.

Until the next issue, whatever your mode, travel safely!

The JITTI USA Team

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The JITTI Journal is a bimonthly publication of the Japan International Transport and Tourism Institute, USA (JITTI USA), in which JITTI USA shares information on transport and tourism developments in Japan and elsewhere, as well as recent JITTI USA programs. As a supplement to our regular events, we hope that the Journal likewise serves as a resource for the transport and tourism communities.

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