Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has designated three new model districts as part of its "Infrastructure Tourism Promotion Project." These districts selected for social experimentation include: the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel in Saitama Prefecture, Busta Shinjuku in Tokyo, and Nukui Dam in Hiroshima Prefecture. Minister Tetsuo Saito announced this on April 9th, stating, "We will work with local communities to establish tourist hospitality systems, including tour planning and inbound tourism, as well as promotion efforts both domestically and internationally."

The total number of model districts now amounts to thirteen. The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, the world's largest underground floodway, will explore further development of tourism connected to regional tours while considering inbound tourism. Busta Shinjuku will focus on tourism related to facility operations and other aspects, as well as attracting visitors from rural areas through express bus services. Nukui Dam, boasting the tallest height in western Japan, becomes the first model district in the Chugoku region. With an eye toward the future opening of river spaces, initiatives aim to revitalize dam tours and surrounding activities, including lake excursions. (2024/04/10)