#Japan #Shizuoka #Japanese Tourism #Ropeway Stamp #Scenic Rides

Japan is set to launch a unique promotional initiative aimed at enhancing the experience of visiting scenic spots via ropeways and lifts. Starting July 16, 2023, Yomiuri Travel Publishing, a subsidiary of Yomiuri Travel led by President Hideki Iwakami, in collaboration with the Chuubu Ropeway Transportation Association, will introduce the ‘Ropeway Stamp’ program. This initiative not only promotes the usage of ropeways and lifts but also allows visitors to collect commemorative stamps and enjoy beautiful perspectives of Japan’s renowned landscapes.

The ‘Ropeway Stamp’ features original designs from various operators, available in both paper and digital formats. Visitors can commemorate their rides by collecting these stamps, which can be affixed in a special Ropeway Stamp Book, sold at numerous ropeway service stations. For those who prefer a modern twist, the digital version exists as an NFT (non-fungible token) and can be acquired by scanning a QR code found on promotional posters at the locations. This innovative approach allows travelers to keep a unique digital record of their travels.

So, what exactly is a ‘Ropeway’? It is a mode of transport that utilizes cables suspended in the air to carry cabin-like vehicles, distinguishing it from more traditional rail systems like trains or cable cars. The first phase of the Ropeway Stamp initiative will focus on service providers in the central region of Japan, including Shizuoka, Gifu, and Mie, where both the stamps and the dedicated stamp books will be available for purchase. The program is also backed by the Japan Ropeway Transportation Association, chaired by Shigeyuki Toge, with plans to expand participation nationwide over time.

Since July 2020, Yomiuri Travel Publishing has been active in promoting travel through their ‘Tetsuincho’, often referred to as the ‘stamp book version of train travel’. They have encouraged railway usage and regional revitalization through this initiative. This spring, they launched the ‘Japanese Whisky Passport’ to introduce the allure of Japanese whisky, highlighting unique tours that celebrate Japan’s rich distilling heritage. The Ropeway Stamp initiative is a continuation of these efforts, making it accessible for tourists to explore some of the country's most picturesque areas via ropeways and lifts.

Details of the Initiative

• - Phase One/Ropeway Operators (Sales Begin July 16, 2023)

- Shimoda Ropeway
- Nihondaira Ropeway
- Kanzanji Ropeway
- Omuro Mountain Lift
- Komuroyama Ridge Walk 'MISORA' (Shizuoka)
- Gifu Kinkansen Ropeway
- Shin-Hotaka Ropeway (Gifu)
- Gozaisho Ropeway (Mie)
- Izumigataka Ski Resort (Miyagi)

• - Phase Two/Ropeway Operators (Sales Planned for Early August 2023)

- Sapporo Moiwa Mountain Ropeway (Hokkaido)
- Okurayama Jump Stadium Lift (Hokkaido)
- Hakkoda Ropeway (Aomori)
- Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort (Nagano)
- Takasu Snow Park (Gifu)
- Rainbow Line Summit Park (Fukui)
- Osorakan Snow Park/Ecology Campground (Hiroshima)

Details of the Ropeway Stamp

• - Dimensions: 100mm x 100mm
• - Availability: Sold at ropeway service stations
• - Pricing: Starting at 300 yen (tax included) for paper, 550 yen (tax included) for digital format.

About the Ropeway Stamp Book

• - Dimensions: 128mm x 115mm, accordion style, 48 pages
• - Availability: Sold at ropeway service stations and also through Yomiuri Travel Publishing’s Yahoo Shopping store.
• - Pricing: 2,200 yen (tax included).

Tourists and nature lovers alike can now engage in a fun and interactive travel experience, combining the thrill of riding Japan’s stunning landscape-enhancing ropeways with the joy of collecting unique stamps. The Ropeway Stamp initiative promises to enrich your travel experience while promoting Japan's natural beauty and unique cultural offerings. For more information, visit the official website of the digital stamp book here.