Japan Off-the-Beaten Path - Discovering Japan’s Hidden Gems with JNTO and Clark Influence

It’s no secret that Clark Influence has a passion for all things travel and tourism. In 2023, Anorak, Clark’s specialized branch dedicated to the tourism industry, teamed up with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) to take three influencers from all corners of Canada on a bespoke trip to explore Japan, beyond the tourist circuit and experience the rich and vibrant culture that the lesser-known regions that Japan has to offer. 

JNTO and Clark Influence were thrilled with the results of this campaign, garnering 1.9M impressions with 1.37M unique viewers from 153 pieces of content in total.

Clark Influence is so proud to have worked hand-in-hand with JNTO to create a detailed itinerary for each influencer, tailor-made for each of them. From booking flights to boats to experiences, we carefully crafted 3 distinct itineraries, each showcasing a different aspect of the wonders Japan has to offer, focusing our trips on the cultural, outdoor and gastronomic offerings of this vast and vibrant country. 

Tiffany Lai (@lai_tiffany), with her passion for cultural exploration, embarked on a captivating journey through the heart of the Kansai region. This immersive experience took her to some of Japan's most iconic destinations, including Osaka, Koyasan, Wakayama, Shingu, Kumano, Kobe, and Arima. Tiffany shared her experience of spending the night in a traditional Buddhist Temple in Koyasan with us, showcasing the opportunities for other travel lovers to find their inner zen while exploring this sacred and tranquil haven.

Tiffany's lens captured the essence of Kansai's rich heritage, offering viewers a glimpse into the traditions, history, and local life that make Kansai an enchanting destination. Check out her YouTube vlog detailing all of the amazing stops she made along the way here.

Scott (@scottcbakken), accompanied by his wife and children, embarked on a thrilling outdoor adventure that spanned the picturesque landscapes of Western Japan. Needless to say, there was much excitement for Scott’s children when they departed from Edmonton to explore the wonders of Okayama, Himeji, Miyajima Island, Naoshima, Onomichi, Hiroshima, and Setonaikai National Park, having never taken such a long journey together as a family before.

The Bakken’s journey showcased the family-friendly side of Japan, emphasizing outdoor activities, and scenic beauty, with the highlight of their trip being the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road. Scott’s content from the trip gained well over 400,000 impressions. To find out more about the Bakken family’s trip of a lifetime, check out Scott’s blog on “10 Unforgettable Experiences in Japan”.

Last but not least, Katie Cung (@katiecung), an influencer with a passion for food, took her audience on a mouthwatering journey through Japan's culinary landscape. Katie and her partner travelled from Montreal and began their trip in Tokyo, visiting Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Toyama, Fukui, and Kyoto, capturing the essence of each region's unique flavours along the way.

Some of the culinary highlights included:

• Hida Beef that Katie notes is underrated compared to Kobe and Wagyu beef but it’s SO tender and melts in your mouth!

• Hokkaido oysters at the Tsukiji market 
  

Over 56,000 Canadians reacted to Katie’s culinary experience in Japan. To experience a glimpse into Katie’s action-packed week discovering Japan’s gastronomic delights, check out her vlog which will make all foodies envious!

If like us, you have a passion for travel, check out these other incredible adventures that Clark Influence has helped to organize. Discover other hidden gems and natural beauty in the Azores and Guadeloupe Islands, or explore the culinary delights of Martinique through the lens of Canadian Influencers! If you are looking for help in planning your next campaign to highlight the beauty and culture of your city or country, we’d be more than happy to help. Reach out to Anorak or Clark Influence to find out more.