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© KYODOTokyo added to Go To Travel subsidy program as discount raised to 50%
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theResident
Brilliant. Combine this with some of the discounts on offer and there really are some very decent ''staycations'' to be had.
gaicuckojin
Without the tourist Tokyo is actually bearable
theResident
Tokyo is very bearable without the tourists - but it IS our duty now to offer even more support to the Restaurant and Bar industry so that they can survive. Its very nice being able to walk into restaurants without a reservation right now - but it won't last forever and nor will they without our support.
Ascissor
?
Bugle Boy of Company B
Restaurants come and go - even in a good economy. But, sure - get out and support them! Have fun!
fxgai
We all need to pay for this ridiculous subsidy program.
It’s a disaster.
People are using the subsidy to go to more up-scale places than they otherwise would.
The cheaper places are suffering as a result.
When the subsidies end the cheaper places could be out of business, and fewer people will be frequenting the upscale places.
Hopefully the upscale places thank their lucky stars and don’t count on good business in future, otherwise it’s bad news for them long term too.
Government subsidies are a bad idea. No wonder the big government of japan that also distributed Abenomasks to you is doing this.
jerry
so much for stay home, stay safe.
MarkX
I agree with fxgai, this is not the hotels and restaurants that are offering big discounts, but the government using our tax dollars to pay for this. So if you don't care, or are a gambling person, you can go and enjoy yourself on everybody else's dime, while those who are more careful and prudent, stay home and foot the bill.
Why not just direct subsidies to these places? This virus is still not finished in Japan, and I fear this is just going to increase the spread.
kurisupisu
So, many mixed messages from the government of Japan.And no, Tokyo has never been on my places to visit except for times when it has been unavoidable...
theResident
@fxgai: I totally disagree - The cheaper places are not suffering at all. If anything, people who would normally not be able to eat out frequently now can. Sone of my co-workers who are on a tight budget can afford to take their family on a short domestic trip for the first time in a while. Yes - no dispute we are all going to pay for it through tax anyway so might as well take advantage.
Totally understand if you don't want to take the risk of infection and stay home - That is totally your choice and respected, however, I never supported any form of lockdown other than restricting mass gatherings such as sports events and concerts and still haven't changed my mind.
carpslidy
Understand both sides but personally I think go to is great.
It encourages people to travel who otherwise wouldn't, allows those on a tight budget to travel, and those with a little more cash to enjoy a little more luxury.
Many countries have similar campaigns
dagon
The GoTo campaigns are enriching JTB and Dentsu and are regressive, crony capitalist corporate welfare that would be better spent elsewhere.
fxgai
theResident,
If we consider that a good thing, do we need to subsidize the upscale places a create unnatural temporary demand?
I’d be less concerned with targeted support to provide adequately for those in need, but the thought of rich people going to rich places on my yen grates, and in the long term I don’t think it does us good.
it’s not that, it’s that I don’t see that the benefits of this program justify the costs - and I question if there really are any benefits! There is a reason for the trend away from subsidies in other countries! Japan never hit the message...
what does the government do after it becomes apparent that some have become dependent on these subsidies? What if other industries demand subsidies? Where does it end?
Lets save our taxes for assisting the needy, not distorting the economy!