#Japan #Ueda #Utsukushigahara #Sky Drive #Pantip

Introduction

O.H., a marketing company based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has partnered with the Shinshu Ueda Tourism Association to introduce a new travel initiative targeting Thai tourists. This promotion, dubbed “Sky Drive,” aims to showcase the breathtaking Utsukushigahara plateau, located at an altitude of 2,000 meters in Nagano Prefecture. Kicking off in September 2025, this initiative highlights Utsukushigahara as a must-visit destination, particularly accessible via rental cars, making it ideal for Thai tourists whose travel preferences lean towards driving.

Background of the Initiative

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization's survey, approximately 13.6% of Thai visitors to Japan opt for rental cars as their means of travel, significantly higher than the national average of around 7%. This trend indicates a rising interest in experiencing regional nature and culture, particularly for repeat visitors. Utsukushigahara, while offering sweeping views of the Japanese Alps, has been previously underserved in terms of transportation, limiting access for foreign tourists. To counter this issue, O.H. has identified Utsukushigahara as the perfect destination for Thai travelers who favor road trips, leveraging their enthusiasm for rental cars.

Promotion Outline

Branding with Memorable Nicknames

Recognizing that the name “Utsukushigahara” can be challenging for Thai speakers, O.H. has rebranded it as the “Sky Museum” (พิพิธภัณฑ์ศิลปะลอยฟ้า) to symbolize the outdoor sculptures and scenic beauty of the area. The driving experience along the plateau is dubbed the “Sky Drive” (ขับรถบนเส้นทางลอยฟ้า), emphasizing the exhilarating adventure of cruising on high-altitude roads.

Utilizing Pantip.com for Local Promotion

O.H. is taking advantage of Pantip.com, Thailand's largest review site, to disseminate promotional content about Utsukushigahara. With over 6.2 million page views daily, Pantip.com serves as a trusted medium for potential travelers, making it an ideal platform for boosting regional awareness. Articles published on the site have piqued interest, with many Thai users expressing desires to visit after viewing the content.

Collaboration with Thai Influencers

In addition to online promotion, O.H. collaborated with Thai influencers and local tourism planners for a hands-on experience visit to Utsukushigahara. They will share insights through various content, including a podcast discussing the latest trends in rental car usage among Thai travelers. This will be available for registration on O.H.’s official site, providing ongoing insights into the Thai market.

Responses to the Promotion

The engagement on Pantip.com has been promising, with numerous comments from users who were unaware of Utsukushigahara's beauty, eager to add it to their travel plans. One user even shared their previous experience visiting Ueda, expressing surprise and admiration upon discovering the area. Such positive feedback has not only increased recognition for Utsukushigahara but also heightened interest in the broader Nagano region.

Future Prospects

O.H. plans to expand the recognition of a new “Golden Route,” connecting Ueda City, Utsukushigahara, and Matsumoto City. By continuing to utilize Pantip.com for promotional activities nationwide, O.H. aims to aid local governments and tourism businesses in their outreach efforts to the Thai market. Future initiatives will involve branded campaigns in collaboration with local media and influencers to promote multi-channel engagement for regional attractions, fostering increased visitor interest and prolonging stays.

Conclusion

Tourist operators and local governments interested in expanding into the Thai market can reach out to O.H. for support and consultation on successful engagement strategies. Together, we can capitalize on the growing interest in Japan among Thai tourists, ensuring that jewels like Utsukushigahara receive the recognition they deserve.

Contact Information

O.H. Company
Location: 1-19-19 Ebisu, Shibuya, Tokyo
Website: www.ooh.co.jp
Shinshu Ueda Tourism Association
Location: 2-8-4 Oote, Ueda City, Nagano
Website: ueda-kanko.or.jp
Travel Consulting Aini
Location: Ueda City, Nagano
Website: aini-travel.com
For inquiries, contact Pimpila Iradee at Tel: 03-6276-5080 or Email: [email protected]