Shohei Ohtani, a two-time American League MVP and highly popular athlete in Japan, has recently joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, a move that has further increased his star status. The potential for Ohtani to boost tourism from Japan to the United States is significant, as Japanese baseball fans are eager to see him play in person for his new team. JTB, Japan’s largest travel agency, has seen strong demand for travel packages to watch Ohtani play for the Dodgers, showcasing the impact his move has had on tourism.
LA Tourism officials also recognize the significance of Ohtani’s presence in Los Angeles, as his debut with the Dodgers has been highlighted as part of the city’s tourism promotions. Ohtani has already proven to increase tourism in the Los Angeles area during his time with the Angels, attracting Japanese visitors to Anaheim and raising name recognition for the city in Japan. This increase in tourism highlights Ohtani’s influence on sports tourism and the potential for athletes to positively impact travel trends.
The rise of sports tourism has been evident in recent years, with many fans making travel plans based on where their favorite teams are playing. Ohtani’s impact on tourism is particularly noteworthy, as Bloomberg reported a significant increase in MLB.tv subscriptions in Japan since his debut in MLB. Japanese fans are eager to attend Ohtani’s games, not only in Los Angeles but also in other locations such as Oakland, where they believe obtaining tickets would be easier.
One potential issue that could affect Ohtani’s popularity and impact on tourism is the gambling scandal involving him and his former interpreter. The allegations of a gambling debt and theft have raised concerns about Ohtani’s reputation and potential suspension from MLB. However, JTB’s Branding and PR Manager remains optimistic about the situation, stating that Japanese fans are still proud of Ohtani’s accomplishments and are considering traveling to the U.S. to watch him play, despite the controversy.
Overall, Ohtani’s move to the Dodgers has had a significant impact on tourism, with both Japanese fans and LA officials recognizing the potential for increased visitor numbers due to his presence. The rise in sports tourism, fueled by Ohtani’s popularity and success, demonstrates the power of athletes to drive travel trends and boost local economies. It remains to be seen how the gambling scandal will affect Ohtani’s reputation and tourism impact, but for now, the excitement surrounding his career and achievements continues to attract fans from around the world.
