July 19, 2023
In a compelling session held on July 11, 2023, Mr. Eijiro Yamakita, the esteemed President and CEO of JTB Co., Ltd., graced the Teikyo Faculty of Economics with his profound wisdom. The event, held at the Hachioji Campus of Teikyo University, delved into the realms of life design and foundational exercises within the Department of Tourism Management of Economics.
With a career steeped in the tourism industry, Mr. Yamakita, a luminary figure, expounded upon the critical significance of nurturing the domestic tourism sector. He artfully wove in the historical narrative of JTB Co., Ltd., underscoring its evolution and its present-day operational framework. The discourse traversed a wide spectrum, encompassing Japan's inbound policies rooted in the Basic Law for Promotion of Tourism Nation, metamorphoses within the tourism sector, and the cutting-edge trends shaping its trajectory.
Mr. Yamakita assumed the mantle of President and CEO during the challenging era of the COVID-19 pandemic, often regarded as the industry's "most arduous three years." His stewardship during this period of unprecedented turmoil showcases a resilience that inspires.
Following the lecture, an engaging question-and-answer session unfolded, wherein inquisitive students sought insights on various facets of the industry. Queries ranged from the requisite mindset for aspiring tourism professionals to strategies for enticing individuals to explore rural areas, and culminated in the intriguing inquiry of Mr. Yamakita's personal recommendations for must-visit tourist destinations.
This distinguished event not only deepened students' understanding of the tourism landscape but also offered invaluable perspectives on fortitude and adaptability in the face of economic challenges. Mr. Yamakita's visit stands as a testament to Teikyo University's commitment to fostering insightful dialogues and shaping future leaders in the world of economics and tourism.