We’ve all heard of the Go to Travel campaign, which provides discounts of up to 50 percent on domestic trips to encourage people to visit Japan’s hotels, shops and tourist attractions – while also giving the country’s overworked residents a much needed vacation. The campaign has stirred up plenty of controversy, particularly in Tokyo, which is currently excluded from the promotion due to its high number of Covid-19 coronavirus cases.
Let’s hope Tokyoites have better luck with the government’s new initiative. Get ready for the Go to Eat campaign, a similar nationwide promotion designed to benefit local restaurants. Run by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), the campaign will provide vouchers offering up to 25 percent off food and drinks at registered restaurants. There will also be a new reward points system for online reservations, which provides gift certificates worth up to ¥1,000 per person. To keep things safe, businesses will have to take thorough preventative measures against infection in order to participate.
MAFF is accepting applications from businesses looking to participate in the campaign until August 7, after postponing the application process due to the increasing number of coronavirus cases in Japan. Details are still being confirmed, including whether or not the campaign will apply to takeout, delivery or just in-house dining. The Japan Times reports that the government hopes to launch the campaign as early as end-August.
We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available.
Heading out to eat? Remember to read our guide on how to go out safely in Tokyo.
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