Ghost of Yotei Boosts Tourism in Hokkaido, Japan

Towns near Mount Yotei in Hokkaido are looking to capitalize on the popularity of Sucker Punch’s PlayStation 5 exclusive Ghost of Yotei to attract more visitors to the area outside ski season.

Towns near Mount Yotei in Hokkaido are looking to capitalize on the popularity of Ghost of Yotei to draw more tourists during the off-peak season. Collaborations with local artisans for official merchandise and guided tours of in-game settings are among the strategies being developed.

Set in 17th century Japan, Ghost of Yotei follows Atsu, a warrior seeking vengeance on her family's killers. The game, inspired by Sucker Punch's research in Hokkaido, showcases the beauty of Mount Yotei and its surroundings, receiving praise from locals. Now, Niseko region towns aim to attract fans of the game to explore the area.

The towns hope Ghost of Yotei will bring in visitors year-round, beyond the ski season, showcasing the region's diverse landscapes throughout the year. With over 3.3 million copies sold, discussions on tourism strategies related to the game have begun, involving seven towns and tourism associations in the area.

Niseko has partnered with a Tokyo company for Ghost of Yotei merchandise and plans to organize tours of game locations. Local businesses are also participating, with sustainable products inspired by the game already available. Following the success of Ghost of Tsushima in boosting tourism to Tsushima Island, similar benefits are expected for Hokkaido.