Japanese interest in P.E.I. tourism rising

P.E.I. is seeing a boost in tourism interest from Japan in the wake of a new TV show that focuses on the life of the woman who translated Anne of Green Gables into Japanese.

Hanako and Anne, which focuses on the life of Hanako Muraoka, began airing in Japan in March and will be on daily for six months. The publication of Muraoka's translation of Anne of Green Gables began a long-time fascination of the Japanese with Prince Edward Island.

Japanese tourism has, however, been slipping in recent years, but Tourism Minister Rob Henderson told the Legislature Thursday visits to the Tourism PEI website originating from Japan are up 47 per cent compared to this time last year.

"Media and trade inquiries have quadrupled," said Henderson.

"Tour operators are sold out and looking to book more tourists to Prince Edward Island. New markets are emerging, especially in student tours and educational exchange organizations."

Hanako and Anne has an audience of close to 60 million people.

The government of P.E.I. is a$140,000 on marketing activities to coincide with the series.