The tourist industry needs to hire you. Your ideas are visionary.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

😆 They can have the ideas for free. I just hope things change to improve the experience for all visitors.

@8:50 is the main and only reason. The Japanese Yen

@jlewsf

6 ай бұрын

i agree

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Despite the exchange rate, I'm curious why some visitors still come.

Young Hawaiians with great ideas like you must get involved in local politics. Get the oldies out and take charge. Run for local offices.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Not sure I'm cut out for that, but thanks. 😅

@dawnwalus6587

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaiiyour ideas are on point i remember when i was in Hawaii over 30 years ago the locals were very friendly sad to hear that may no longer be true!

@bw5277

18 күн бұрын

@@dawnwalus6587 Many locals , including myself have moved to mainland due to continued rising costs and low wages. Many new locals have no idea of Aloha Spirit.

Excellent suggestions. I think you should communicate them to the Hawaii Visitors Bureau.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Hopefully they have a plan for 2024.

@alexcarter8807

6 ай бұрын

Does the Hawaii Visitors Bureau still even exist? I thought they have a different name now? My dad worked for them off and on many decades ago. (It's Hawaii Visitors And Convention Bureau now).

I remember my first reverse culture shock from returning to Hawaii after living in Japan was how low class it felt to get change back from a cashier in Hawaii. In Japan the cashiers dressed in clean pressed clothes, neatly combed hair, and new white gloves. They spoke in a pleasant tone, and spread out the brand new bills in their hands like a professional card magician and made this crisp pleasant sounding, ‘pack!’, ‘pack’, ‘pack’ as they counted the bills. They placed the money neatly into a rectangle tray and slowly slid it across the counter to me and smiled and thas if performing and ancient classy tea ceremony. When a grumpy unkempt JCPenney cashier in Hawaii tossed me a bunch of crumpled bills and coins on the counter for my change, I felt so insulted. I wanted to throw the coins back at her but actually she was just being a regular cashier in a department store. It was just my reverse culture shock from experiencing Japan customer service.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I miss the tray at convenient stores. One of the charming things about Japan. 😄

All of these are good ideas. I always enjoy your programs. Thanks for taking the time.

We visited Hawaii from Canada last May for 17 days and lost 35 cents on the dollar. It hurts but it’s still worth it to us. It’s pretty awful for Australians too at 67 cents on the dollar. I think Canadian and Australian number are down also. The hotels have become so expensive, but we love The Queen Kapiolani and will always stay there. We’ve been there for 12 years❤

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I met a couple from Australia at Macy's that told me about the exchange. Pretty rough for them now.

Thanks for another awesome video Chris ☺️! I remember when the state opened back up in 2021, a ran into a guy who was driving Japanese tourists around to all the popular shave ice shops on Oahu. They were always at Ko Olina as well.

Bingo Chris! I am glad that someone finally talked about this sensitive subject, in an honest perspective. We were in Hawaii last summer, and the service was so unfriendly. Kudos to you! Keep up the good work.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Sorry to hear the service wasn't great. Hopefully it improves. And it probably won't cost that much.

You are simply excellent. I vote YOU to officially be installed as King of Hawaii Tourism Development!! In all seriousness, we have visited Honolulu five times in the last five years and have always found the people to be so kind and welcoming. That guy at the airport needs a career change asap.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

lol. King? I'd just be happy if the "kings" take some of these ideas and try to implement them.

@CosmoguyDale

6 ай бұрын

Okay...we'll settle for "Prince". @@HelloFromHawaii 😏

These are all great ideas, Chris. Even if the last one isn't promoted by the State, or HVCB, I could see a local hotel chain like Outrigger doing something like that. If you have any friends in politics, HVCB, or some of the bigger local businesses, you should share your ideas with them. It seems that you don't care who would get the credit for these ideas if the State as a whole could benefit from them. You're a good thinker when it comes to these sorts of topics. It would be a shame if no one took your ideas and ran with them.🤙

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Yeah, I wouldn't really care who gets the credit for the ideas. I just think it would be helpful for visitors so that they would come back.

I think if I was from Japan I’d just go to Okinawa or the Philippines.

@alexcarter8807

6 ай бұрын

There are an utter ton of nice places around Asia to go. Okinawa is awesome and a lot like Hawaii, kind of a blend between Hawaii and Japan. If I could master the language I'd seriously consider retiring there.

@hstowell11

6 ай бұрын

Or Thailand...gorgeous places there for very cheap.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Me too. I've seen the beaches in Okinawa. Very nice.

Great content and topic thank you! We have to be more competitive here as a whole and create an environment where people can grow up here and stay here. That means having skill sets that are competitive. We have to be leaders, not just following trends. I think of Taiwan and what TSMC did for that island. I hope you run for office to change the old guard here 🤙

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

I agree that it's important to create an environment where people can grow up and stay here. Being vested in a community is huge. 🤙

I used to go to Hawaii every year until the pandemic hit the US. As I returned right after the pandemic lockdown is lifted, I felt weird not seeing Japanese tourists. Kind of sad to be honest with you. I hope they return soon. I also think the airports should hire a Japanese speaking liaison to help them with directions. I look forward to return to Hawaii next year.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Great idea about the liason. Hope you enjoy your visit to Hawaii next year.

@pcdude2394

5 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii I always have a great time in Hawaii. Only bad experience I had was when I experienced an earthquake in Maui with no power for 8 hours during my honeymoon. But I was glad I left Oahu on the day before the quake.

The biggest reason Japanese are staying away is the poor yen to dollar exchange. There are a lot of other places they can visit where the yen ratio is not so poor. Not so sure we could get away with offering kama'aina discounts and other advantages to Japanese tourists ONLY. I mean, if I was a tourist, say, from Australia, it would seem unfair.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Good point. Maybe that's something we can offer to other countries after piloting the program with Japan.

You are correct. Just a few years ago, when I was last in Hawai'i, in 2015, O'ahu especially was TEEMING with Japanese tourists! I saw them everywhere in Waikiki. I loved that.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Yeah, they are still coming, but just not as many. Hopefully that changes in 2024.

This is a topic my family and I talk about all the time. Being native Hawaiian, our culture is a brand? Right there, my heart was hurting so bad. There is a lot of hurt, and many locals are just tired of catering to tourists. The yen is the biggest issue for sure. The other points, I hear what you have to say and like others have said, you are at the head of this since you are pure Japanese with some generations of ancestors that came here before you. Also, your wife is from Japan and that helps guide what needs to get better. But to better the Japanese tourists experience, and all other individuals, it will take time. Lots of time and healing. When I saw my niece dance in the Merry Monarch, a Japanese Halau was invited to dance but never placed. I told my mom, what was the point? She shared, to share their love for Hula. If the aloha is there, the rest will follow. I find that it's great to want to experience a culture, just don't sell that culture that is not yours to sell. That goes for anything and everything. Hawai'i is fine the way it is for now because the experience comes in sets of waves. Changing Hawai'i for a particular class (the Japanese because they themselves excell at hospitality) is not the way. Those who sit in office and the tourism board needs to think long and hard on what is good for the residents here. Asking those who are strong in the Native Hawaiian community on what is accurate regarding our past to educate tourists is also a need. We don't need more Lu'aus! Seriously! Gosh no! Those are not accurate either. For 2 days or a week, this is all they will get on the isles of Hawai'i and it's culture. To educate is key, not to sell our culture so you can wear it home and parade it around on your head or body. Great discussion, but just, WOW! My family will be talking about this even more now. 😅 11:22 "Take a hard look at the BRAND of Hawai'i!" I will tell my kids when they come home from school if their culture is a brand today? I will ask, "What are your thoughts about this topic?" This will lead to lots of interesting discussions for sure!!!!!! 😂 To add: The Japanese are also investing more in their own local attractions and keeping their birth rates up. Many Japanese are touring their own country rather then travelling else where. What I love about that, they are looking out for their own people and feeding into their own economy. Hawai'i needs to do just that. We are not grass skirts ready to dance in front of you for your entertainment. I also agree, locals should not be jerks. I went to other countries and loved it. I treat tourists with love and respect, because that is what I want in return. I also tell someone off if they are being rude (tourists and locals). All people can do better. Locals and tourists when it comes to their attitude. 😅 Chris! Speak up next time and tell that worker to be better and talk to the Japanese tourist and help them. You too are a local!!!! We all need to be that change. I get that Japanese people are shy and don't like confrontation. Please promise that from now on you will speak up and say something and help. Your followers look to that too. We all need to do better.🤙🏽

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Mahalo for the comments. Glad to hear that you have discussions on topics like this with your kids. I believe that "Hawaii, the Brand" is different from "Hawaii, the Culture". Both need to be discussed, especially as we move forward in these trying times.

@miNOTprofessional

6 ай бұрын

I agree and I am looking forward to that video. I really hope you partner with an economics professor from UH or a local celebrity or politician to get that discussion from what you just stated. That would be cool to see you walk around local spots and get local input on their thoughts. Don't get me wrong, we enjoy seeing you, but show case more "locals" in your videos. The brand of Hawai'i and the brand of the culture needs to be clearly defined and I know you'll do awesome! Also, one of my favorite content creators is this guy. He show cases his life and culture by incorporating those around him in his community. This is what I strive to see! And him and his wife have cats!!!!!! 🐈‍⬛🐈🤣 youtube.com/@JunsKitchen I spoke to one of my childhood friend's on this and her mom is from Japan. They saw your video and here is what she said, "She said we are mainly a paradise for homeless now. The guy in the video said people enjoy traveling to Japan because the food is good, customer service is great, it's clean, feel safe, etc. Hawaii isn't clean anymore, nor does it feel safe." Telling other states to stop sending their homeless here is the first start. Then figure out a plan to make Hawai'i safer for everybody. All topics and great content for your channel.

@user-sg8kq7ii3y

5 ай бұрын

I'll come right out and say it because I've said it before. Japanese tourists from Japan, are, BY FAR, the most humble and respectful tourists in the WORLD. In general, they have so much love for Hawaii and Hawaiian culture. As you've mentioned, they LOVE hula. They were born and raised to have good behavior and to RESPECT others. Despite the millions of Japanese tourists who come to Hawaii each year, rarely do they cause trouble in Hawaii. Ask any Honolulu police officer, any Waikiki hotel worker, any flight attendant, any ABC Store cashier, or any waiter who works in the visitor industry about the behavior of Japanese tourists, and ALL OF THEM will tell you that they have the utmost respect for other cultures and other people in general. They RARELY will complain even when a complaint is justified. They don't get into drunken bar brawls. They don't litter in Hawaii because littering is non-existent in Japan. And because Japan has tons of shrines and temples, Japanese tourists have deep respect for Native Hawaiian cultural sites. They also OBEY authority. So if a police officer, a lifeguard, or hotel security warns them of something or ask them not to do something, they LISTEN immediately. They FOLLOW RULES, and they are extremely respectful of their surroundings. They will bump and push when they are catching a train in Tokyo, but they are smart enough to know not to do the same when they travel. They are self-aware; they are respectful; and they rarely complain. Japanese tourists is EXACTLY the tourists you want in Hawaii because they will spend money, and they will not disrespect the land, the people, or the culture. But if they don't feel that Hawaii is worth their travel dollars, then they will find other places to go. And that destination will benefit from their presence. And they will never complain to anyone in Hawaii to let them know why they don't want to come here because complaining is not a part of their culture.

@miNOTprofessional

5 ай бұрын

@user-sg8kq7ii3y I am so happy you brought all of that up, and that is what I see. My friends mom, who is from Japan, wants to see Hawai'i become a safer place and become more hospitable. We all do! I went to the post office yesterday, and a Japanese grandmother had so many packages, and no one helped. I ran from my car to open the door and helped her in. I was shocked! She just kept saying thank you, and I bowed and said it's okay. I wanted to help her like it was my own grandmother. She didn't grumble or say, "Wow, no one else helped." She was super nice and grateful. The point needs to be made on the difference of the brand of Hawai'i and the brand of the culture. To me, they go hand in hand. If this can be clearly defined with data and visuals with local input, great! I know there will be a lot of great points.

@miNOTprofessional

5 ай бұрын

@user-sg8kq7ii3y Thank you for bringing this up! 🙏🏽 I know Chris didn't say what you said, but that does need to be said and highlighted. That needs to be a video too!!!!!!

The Holo Card idea is brilliant

I think that 150 yen to the dollar is the largest barrier to visitors from Japan.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Hopefully it gets better soon.

@silversurferhi

6 ай бұрын

Agree most likely the #1 reason

Spot on as usual Chris!👍🏼🤙🏼

Hawaii should focus on other Asian countries like China, Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Malasia...etc. Japan is a stagnant economy. Larger spenders. Hawaii needs to diversify.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

I think we've seen an uptick in Korean visitors, which is great.

@user-84-rg9-8n2

5 ай бұрын

Since most of these countries are already tropical, they are more keen on saving up for trips to temperate destinations, ie. North America and Europe.

Having gone to college on the mainland, you know how funny it sounds to say it's cold cuz the temperature is in the 60s. I always got a good laugh seeing people in Hawaii wearing down vests and knit caps during the winter months. Not even in Wahiawa, which is at elevation, did I ever feel it was that cold, but, then again, I knew (and know) what it's like to experience temps in the single digits and below zero here on the mainland.🥶 Stay warm Hawaii, however you have to do it (and no matter how warm we on the mainland think it is).🍜☕🫖🍵🔥

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

It's been "saimin days" almost every other day. So much rain 😁

@alexcarter8807

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii Ah, the sadness that is mainland saimin. I no can.

@christopherturco197

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii Maybe you can mix it up with some miso or portagee bean soup. Always enjoyed those on wet, windy days in Hawaii.

@makulewahine

5 ай бұрын

I do miss a good bowl of saimin.

@user-sg8kq7ii3y

5 ай бұрын

You will adapt to wherever you currently live. I knew a guy who was born and raised in Alaska, but who lived in Hawaii for several years. Yet he still got cold in Hawaii too when it reached the upper 60's. I lived on the mainland too, in subfreezing and below zero temperatures. I still get cold when I'm in Hawaii when it gets into the upper 60s.

I wish I met you when I flew back to visit family on Oahu back in September. Share my experience after living in Hawaii for 40 years then moving to Illinois. Honestly, I feel like everywhere in Hawaii has become the "no mattah" attitude or "just doing enough" attitude. After moving to the midwest, I feel like there is more Aloha out here than back home. Which is sad. I also brought my friend from the midwest that helped me out when I moved to Illinois and showed her around. It was her first time ever visiting. She got to see the "real" hawaii. Also, the prices for food, OMG. Really, zippac almost 18.00! I agree with your assessment of customer service. Also the state needs to get rid of the "we been doing like this for 30 years, why change now?" attitude. No lie, you see um too. lol Great videos and keep it up, ma braddah.

@hstowell11

6 ай бұрын

Agreed...people on Oahu are struggling with the costs. Especially after this latest bout with inflation. Hard to keep up that friendly Aloha spirit when you are struggling. I've found much friendlier & better service here in Texas since we moved from the island.

@projectc2

6 ай бұрын

@@hstowell11 That’s another thing. Wages don’t match cost of living. I also feel that’s another stress that families live with. I could never buy a house at 700k avg. Not about to pay 5k a month for a house built in the 50s.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Mahalo for sharing. Glad your friend was able to see how things really are. And you're right. There are other places that have the aloha spirit on the mainland. I've visited those places too.

@hstowell11

6 ай бұрын

@projectc2 , absolutely correct...we were fortunate enough that we invested in Oahu real estate over the years & were eventually were able to buy a newer home in Makakilo. Still had a mortgage though. We sold at the right time & were able to pay cash in Texas and still bank about half our profits. It's not Hawaii weather here, but it was still in the 70s and I was wearing shorts today. Some days I do miss those island views though, but not the H1 traffic.

@projectc2

6 ай бұрын

@@hstowell11 Lucky. It’s 23° feels like -5° rn. 😂😂😂

Lots of good points. Honolulu is painted as heaven on earth and it's pretty good, but I wasn't impressed in my visit because my expectation was too high. Gonna try Maui and Big Island next!

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Kauai is also a great choice.

5 years ago my family and I traveled to Japan. When we returned we encountered an individual treating visitors like how you described in your example at the airport. Yes, I told the guy off. I told him exactly what you said. This person is their first impression of Hawaii. Do better because, we don't want our visitors thinking we are all JERKS like you.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Like I mentioned, maybe it wasn't the employee's job to direct passengers, but it looks bad.

@makulewahine

5 ай бұрын

It probably wasn't part of the job but when you are in such a public space there is no excuse for rudeness. Some decent training would help.

@user-sg8kq7ii3y

5 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii "Not my job". That's a common thing I hear in Hawaii and on the continental U.S. as well. When I worked at a Hawaii hospital, it was also, "not my job" to pick up trash I saw on the floor up on the patient floors, in the cafeteria, in the parking lot, and in other areas on hospital grounds, yet I did it. Whenever I hear someone say, "That's not my job." I immediately know they're not a good employee, and definitely not a team player.

@hi808surfdudenew5

5 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii If you have a job that may make you interact with visitors, it is your job to represent this state in a positive way.

I was in Japan 5-6 weeks ago. Rooms, food, transportation, shopping so much cheaper than Hawaii. I think you have some very good ideas, but will be hard to not only lure Japanese tourists back, but from mainland as well. I'm not sure what new Hawaii Airbnb situation will be but staying at resorts on the beach in Hawaii not in my budget. I've probably been to 4 major islands 25 or more times in last 10 years. I will be mixing it up a little due to Hawaii travel rising costs. I love Hawaii...hope they can figure out some solutions.

I agree with you that we have to treat tourists better, especially at the airport. A few years ago, when we came back from Asia, our first encounter was a person yelling at people directing them to the customs and immigration lines. It was a terrible first impression of Hawaii. After visiting Japan a few times in the past year, I always ask myself, “why would Japanese people want to come to Hawaii?” The food is not as good as Japan, the prices are high for what you get, the crime and homeless situation make you feel unsafe and a lot of people are rude and uncaring. You are so astute in your observations. Too bad our politicians and leaders don’t have your brains and your vision. I don’t think tourism will ever come back to the levels in the past. Hawaii has changed and not for the better.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I've often wondered why they come here too. I think for the shopping and the marketing that they do to sell the Hawaii image. But with the yen being where it is, I don't think that marketing is as effective.

Thank you for sharing you observation of different groups of tourist that come there to paradise. Yes, sense the height of the medical pandemic we had, a lot of different tourists groups are slowly getting back to traveling. Even Europe in general is not back yet to full America travel. While other places are getting back to record highs. Well, even though the pandemic is not as high as just a couple of years ago, a number of people are still dying from it and more people have those post pandemic problems and they are going to the hospitals and clinics still. Secondly, people in general have to feel comfortable wanting to travel. Some people are affected by International political problems so, they want to stay close to home to feel safe. Then there are people who are now taking care if their parents and recently sick childreen. Furthermore, many people used their money mors for at home needs. So, there are a number of concerns that many travels. I myself have mot been back to Hawaii in general because of many things. I took care of my Mother before she went to heaven. AND now, I have some medical items hitting me. Some it is a lot of different things that affect different groups of people to travel there to paradise.😊 And by the way, you made laugh talking about it is cool/cold there with it be 60 degrees!!😊 Here in Chicago it be 50 degrees for our Christmas and no snow!!!😊😊 Last was about 47 degree and I stop by the Subway Sandwich Shop to pick up some cheese broccoli soup.😊😊

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

I'm not sure what other factors are keeping Japanese visitors from coming besides the exchange rate and economic situation in Japan. Hopefully they can research why numbers are still so low.

@LMays-cu2hp

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii Yeah, I hope you will hear why or how the lack of travel to Hawaii from Japan. It hope that tourist well come there to paradise to enjoy tge native Hawaiians and the culture along with the great food there!!!!!☺

@LMays-cu2hp

6 ай бұрын

Also, right now tonight it is 27 degrees outside with no snow. So, the 60 degrees there is something to wish for here!! ☺

It's definitely a stretch, and I know it has been closed for years, but maybe fix the ocean water pool/Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial. That would be an amazing attraction!

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I was wondering what they would do with that. It would be an interesting attraction.

Those free tourist guides you see everywhere tourists go -- some have both English and Japanese editions, and it's interesting to compare what's advertised. I remember seeing shooting galleries in Japanese, but not English editions. There are quite a few businesses that cater only to Japanese nationals, that are nearly invisible to locals.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Yeah, I used to look through those to see what is being advertised to the Japanese visitors. Very different.

Isn't part of the problem the current exchange rate? I know my friend in Japan says she can't come over because the exchange rate is awful for her.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

The exchange rate isn't great for them. Good for us going there, though.

Great share!

Currency exchange rate is the dampener.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

It surely doesn't help things. I just hope Hawaii will be ready when the rates get better.

I live in Japan for a few months each year. At present the US dollar is super strong. It's just too expensive for my family to visit the US right now. That being said, A lot of new homes being built in Japan. The interest rate is low. A lot of beautiful new families too.. Our home is surrounded by new homes.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Glad to hear that the rates are low so people in Japan can build. Would love to see how much $500,000 could get you.

Very good point about CUSTOMER SERVICE. That makes all the Difference in the world. Hawaii needs to promote Hawaii in Japan. Hawaii needs to work on PUBLIC RELATIONS. Hawaii lost one of the best events they ever had. Which, was the NFL PRO BOWL. Hawaii didn't promote it. They were caught a sleep at the wheel.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

It's too bad we don't have the Pro Bowl anymore. I remember going to one as a kid. We had a great time since we don't have any pro teams.

I live in an East Coast state, but when I visit Hawaii, I don't expect any differential treatment ! I don't want anyone "kissing my butt", or catering to my every whim ! One of my favorite (life) expressions is - "when in Rome, you do as the Romans" ! Meaning, instead of Hawaiiaan's raising raising their standards - the people from Japan, should try lowering theirs ??! smh. Good video though !

Hawaii is too expensive these days for most people anywhere. My wife & I sold our house in Makakilo last year and moved to Texas because of my island fever. We aren't even thinking of coming back now because of the costs. My wife is from Japan so we do spend a lot of time there because it's even cheaper than Texas. No need to go to Hawaii when we can go to the beaches here & in Japan. In Texas we can drive for 70 miles down a beach. Hawaii, as beautiful as it is, will continue to price itself out of the market.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Mahalo for sharing. Hope there are good Japanese grocery stores in Texas. Although I heard the BBQ is amazing in Texas. 😆

@hstowell11

6 ай бұрын

@HelloFromHawaii , definitely the right place for brisket. There are some great Japanese & Asian markets in the Austin area, but we are spending about half the time in Japan anyway so we load up our suitcases when over there... 😆 🤣 😂

@user-sg8kq7ii3y

5 ай бұрын

Texas beaches are not even close to being as nice as Hawaii beaches, though.

@hstowell11

5 ай бұрын

@@user-sg8kq7ii3y , I don't disagree. The scenery & setting aren't even close, but driving for miles in the sand along with surf fishing pretty much all alone is awesome. Not only that, but actually catching fish & seeing lots of sea turtles. Both places have their own advantages.

@user-sg8kq7ii3y

5 ай бұрын

@@hstowell11 Very true!🤙

Unfortunately many locals are disgruntled since the Pandemic we haven't recovered. We are more apt to share the aloha spirit with other locals. Yes I agree we have to step it up. Yes lots of friends visiting Japan numerous times since they reopened.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

The flights are fairly cheap and the shopping and food are just too good 😆

My entire career is customer service and I hate when there is next to zero customer service where ever I go to spend my money. It makes me more frugal….

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Me too. I've also seen great customer service, though. Stands out so much and makes me excited about the brand.

I am a Chinese American living in Shanghai. I've always wanted to visit Hawaii, but I cannot describe how hard it is to figure out the flights.

The trolly/bus is system horrendous. They pack you in the bus like a can or sardine, charge you $5 per person (website says $2), then make you wait 30 minutes (atleast from Alamoana). Two things I HATE is 1) bait and switch and 2) wasting time. I don't mind spending money (we spend about $3k/day on the BI and Oahu at Hualalai, Rosewood, Ritz, etc) as long as it's up front and the quality is there. The trolly seriously gave me PTSD.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I'm surprised the bus system from the airport isn't better. The transportation options in Japan are amazing.

@Omikoshi78

5 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaiithe transport from airports can be painful but it’s also relatively easy to arrange for a limo pickup which is what we ended up doing. The public transport after we arrive to get around the island is pretty terrible. On the big island we don’t mind driving around. On Oahu we’re stuck with Uber / taxis.

#Grateful 🙏 love you guys, thank you, #mahalo

Last time I visited Oahu, I definitely noticed a decline in Japanese tourists and more Korean tourists instead.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I've also noticed more Korean tourists. Maybe they stand out more because of less Japanese tourists?

I like some of your suggestions on how to increase Japan tourism. Maybe the Hawaii Tourism Authority should open up a special email address to submit for suggestions on how to improve tourism in Hawaii(?). I just got back from a trip to the mainland & one thing I always noticed is that why don't the airlines play a required short video that everyone must watch on how to respect the Hawaii culture while visiting the islands?. Japan tourists are very important to Hawaii, but so are all the others. Hawaii needs tourism, because without it half of Hawaii would lose their jobs & the other half would have to pay more taxes to make up for the lost revenue. We all need an open discussion about this entire subject.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I think Hawaiian plays a video, but it's not required by other airlines. Maybe create a requirement or at least highly encourage others to play videos before arriving in Hawaii?

Having to wear my hoodie today in Pearl City

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

It's a cold and wet day. Didn't need fan last night. 😆

As someone living in LA I thought food in Hawaii to be hella expensive. I could only imagine someone from Japan buying meals. I wanted to try more japanese food when I went but everything was near $30 pre tip that me and my friends opted out

@user-84-rg9-8n2

5 ай бұрын

In Southeast Asia and Latin America, they have all kinds of fabulous street foods. On the cheap!

We watch travel programs about Hawaii here in Japan, and when we see the prices of meals, at the present exchange rate, ouch! And the tipping on top, which we don't have here. Air fares are up and prices in Japan too, so we're having to be thrifty even here. My daughter and I want to visit again but we're putting it off for now, unfortunately.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

It's probably best to hold off on visiting since the cost is so high. Maybe when the rate goes down to the 120s it will be a good time.

Too expensive for them to visit the US with the value of the yen. Was just there for the marathon and the numbers of Japanese participants was way down from the pre-pandemic 2019 numbers.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Yeah, I know the numbers were down. Still, I was surprised that many Japanese visitors made the trip.

Hi from California .

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

Hello from Hawaii 🤙

@andymartinez9446

6 ай бұрын

I was stationed at K-Bay from 77- 80 than from 84 - 86 came back as a civilian in 2019 only to see a different place. Thank you for your channel and keeping the public informed with your content. The song that I remember is " Honolulu City Lights" which will forever be in my heart Aloha Brother.

This is just my opinion ... but I see a growing (and very vocal) part of our local population that is very increasingly and rapidly becoming very anti-tourist, whether tourists are from Japan or any other place, domestic or foreign and have heard the very widespread "talk" on social media, namely FB, and displaying for all to read and see the negative feelings toward the tourist, for whatever reason, and there are reasons for every group, and these whispered negative talk is not very whispered either but very loud and clear .. . and tourists read this kine crap too, besides actually feeling this in real life encounters ... I don't have any answers but I think this is a very valid and serious problem, which is actually nearly impossible to overcome ... not trying to point fingers, but in order for Hawaii to really and truly keep on being a valued destination, all must be on the same team ... good luck to Hawaii ... 🤙🤙🙏🙏

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Mahalo for sharing. It's sad that prospective visitors read that stuff. Those who harbor negative feelings about tourism have a right to express those feelings, but I hope they also understand the effect their words might have. And I also hope that more balanced voices can be shared online as well.

They are in Guam

Bruh, We need You to be in charge of Hawai'i Tourism. Like as in, the State executive office.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

lol. Too much pressure 😅

@SunnyIlha

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii Haha, ... You would be absolutely perfect, hands down without a single smidgen of doubt, though.

@user-84-rg9-8n2

5 ай бұрын

@@SunnyIlha These days, _everything_ is social media.

You have to consider the age group of the repeat visitors. What are they doing now in Japan? How is the economy in Japan affecting them and the travel potential of the younger generation of travelers? Your ideas about advancing tourism in Hawaii are solid but what's going on in Japan? It's " a two way street", situation.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Mahalo for the comment. I'm not sure how the younger generation of travelers are doing in the tough Japanese economy. I'd think now would be a time to try to bring back some of those older travelers who can take time off and who have extra money.

location in front of Aliʻiōlani Hale across from ʻIolani Palace. Someday do one from Kawaiahaʻo Church nearby

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

The church is a great location. They have Christmas decorations up now.

I’m for his Japanese / Hawaiian tourism upgrade project. We need more tools 🧰

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

🤙

Smart Smart #Grateful

I live in Japan but am about to leave. The solutions you provide are to other problems that really don't affect the numbers. Carrying out immigration checks in Japan which was floated by the Hawaii state government won't affect the numbers in the slightest, Japanese are used to waiting in queues, some queue up at restaurants for 1 to 2 hours because it appeared on tv or is cheap. It's simply the exchange rate and inflation, losing 30% to 50% of value of your currency, then having to fork out even more for US and then the even more expensive Hawaii prices is simply unattenable. Especially on the lower wages that dominate Japan.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Interesting point about the Japanese being used to standing in lines. Agree. Hopefully we'll be ready to receive more visitors from Japan when the yen balances out.

You forgot a major thing that needs improvement at HNL airport. The baggage claim area outside is so ugly looking and dark! It need better lighting and murals and decor and maybe Hawaiian music piped in! That is a major eyesore!!

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

I'm just glad we have Wi-Fi 😆

Yes allll the beautiful Japanese weddings that use to be.

COVID expedited the inevitable decline of the Japanese economy. There just aren't enough young people to tax to support the aging population. My friends in Osaka say they can no longer visit Hawaii, and are going to Guam, Philippines and Thailand instead.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I guess it's just cheaper to travel to those places and/or visiting Hawaii just isn't worth it anymore.

What Chinese visitors? There are so many Chinese friends want to go but the Visa and flight difficulty made it exceedingly different.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Hopefully they can figure it out. Hard to book a flight?

What ever happened to getting a Lei in the lobby at the airport ?

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

I think only certain visitors get a lei. Maybe through a travel agency?

More Koreans are coming. I follow a lot Korean actors on insta and they are all visiting Hawaii.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

That's good to know. I'm sure it's getting attention from prospective Korean visitors.

@user-84-rg9-8n2

5 ай бұрын

They must have really been enamored by _Hawaii 5-O._

The Japanese tourist are traveling to Vietnam Korea, Hong Kong and they are not coming to Hawaii. In Hawaii we charge for everything. We charge them to climb Diamond head craters , we charge to go to Hanauma Bay. We even charge the Japanese tourist go see the Hitachi tree in the Moana Gardens Park. Governor Green is so out of touch. The Japanese yen is weak. Hotels are ripping them off with resort fees. They will not be coming to Hawaii anytime soon until the Japanese yen gets stronger. These are the problems. There is no Aloha in Hawaii.

@zoneout0

6 ай бұрын

💯

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Charging those rates are just part of the tourist experience, though. Not everything can be free. Frankly, some of those rates need to be increased, especially for Hanauma Bay. Hopefully the yen gets stronger and Hawaii is ready when more Japanese visitors start coming back.

@user-sg8kq7ii3y

5 ай бұрын

Moanalua Gardens can charge what they want because that is PRIVATE PROPERTY. That is NOT State or City property. They let people visit and use the park, for free, for DECADES and DECADES. So if they want to charge a fee now, then they can do what they want. They don't even have to open the park to anyone if they didn't feel like it.

To bring the good tourists back, Hawaii must, must, *must* get crime under control, get the homeless out of town and Waikiki, basically get the poverty (self-imposed you dumb druggies) and squalor trimmed back a good deal. Japanese tourists are used to being in an actual first-world country. Being in part of the US is naturally going to be shocking. Hawaii has to try to be different from most of the US which, frankly, is a dirty and dangerous place.

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

That's a great suggestion. I'd want to know what tourists think when they see the homeless in Waikiki and Downtown. I'm sure they must be shocked.

@alexcarter8807

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii Especially considering so many of the problem homeless are from the mainland. I've watched a ton of videos and so, so, so many of the homeless who are spreading garbage, career drug abusers, committing crimes, etc are not from Hawaii. Yes, actual Hawaiians are homeless but there's a wonderful video about how some of them formed a camp with rules and order, that might be a bit of an echo of how Hawaiians lived in the old days. The ones out there causing trouble and who are very visible, are like 90% mainlanders.

I get the sense that workers just don’t care and are working just for a paycheck. Poor training and not working with a sense of urgency as well as not taking pride in their job is just the tip of the iceberg. Sigh…

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

Hopefully we can start changing that work culture. Those people are often the ones the visitors interact with the most.

I think the reason the number of Japanese tourists decreased is that Japanese economy has gotten really bad in the recent 2-3 years.

The Yen has tanked against the dollar they can't afford to go to Hawaii

its the yen right now... cant fix that.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

It's getting more balanced.

❤️🎄😎

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

🤙

Drop the prices and costs 😊. Lose nickels, gain dollars.

@HelloFromHawaii

5 ай бұрын

That's the idea.

Doko e ?

Half??!

@HelloFromHawaii

6 ай бұрын

46 percent-ish?

@SunnyIlha

6 ай бұрын

@@HelloFromHawaii I didn't know! You educated me!!

the economy is not as good as it was in 80's. yen losing value to the dollar. food cost to expensive in Waikiki and hotels that doesn't help.

Visitors from Japan??!

My opinion people FROM around the world knows there no Paradise anymore. People are not gravely to each his own

Honolulu Airport Worker: A😡l😡o😡h😡a😡