Japan's Travel Industry Prepares to Reopen Borders to Tourists

A typical itinerary takes in Tokyo and the cultural sights of the former capital of Kyoto.

Many are adding to the famous art installations on Naoshima Island, in Japan's Inland Sea, the world-famous ski slopes of Niseko in Hokkaido, and, of course, some of the nation's "onsen" hot springs.

'Cooped up for two years'

"These people have been cooped up for more than two years, which they are not used to, and they have used that time to plan where they want to go and what they want to do," Mano said.

Another incentive to make Japan their first destination is the weak yen, which is making vacations cheaper than in previous years, she added.

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The industry accepts, however, that there are going to be some bumps in the road before Japan's travel sector gets completely back to normal.

The government's pilot tourism plan was launched in late May for small groups of closely monitored travelers from a handful of nations.

It hit a bump on Monday when it was confirmed that one member of a group of four travelers from Thailand had tested positive for the virus and had been placed in an isolation unit in Oita Prefecture, in southwest Japan.

"It's going to take a little time," agreed Kei Tamura.

"I think this summer is too soon to expect large numbers of travelers to return, but I believe, and I hope, that by this time next year, we will once again be fully booked."