Japanese tourists have long had a passion for capturing selfies, a trend that stretches back decades.
Tourism Australia has tapped into this cultural phenomenon by launching the ‘GIGA Selfie,’ a groundbreaking initiative that offers tourists an unparalleled way to capture their travels in Australia.
For decades, Japanese tourists have embraced the concept of taking selfies, a practice they arguably initiated with homemade selfie devices over 20 years ago.
Currently, the trend of ‘kissing selfies’ captivates Japanese teenagers, reflecting their ongoing fascination with innovative selfie practices.
Tourism Australia has ingeniously capitalised on this selfie craze by introducing the ‘GIGA Selfie.’
This initiative is designed specifically for Japanese tourists, allowing them to create extensive ‘destination selfies’ through the GIGA app and strategically placed cameras.
Tourists are required to download the GIGA app and stand at designated spots in various iconic Australian locations.
Upon using the app to activate the camera, an up-close image is taken, which then pans out to reveal the expansive beauty of the destination.
The resulting photo or video is then sent directly to the tourist’s email, offering a lasting memento of their visit.
Japanese visitors are integral to Australian tourism, ranking among the top in terms of inbound arrivals and spending as of 2014.
With forecasts predicting a 15-20% increase in the Japanese tourist market in 2016, initiatives like GIGA Selfie are expected to further stimulate this growth.
The GIGA Selfie initiative is part of Tourism Australia’s ‘There’s Nothing Like Australia’ campaign.
Collaboration with partner airlines, travel agencies, and state tourism offices plays a crucial role in promoting this innovative experience.
To enhance the appeal of the GIGA Selfie, high-profile media personalities such as Ren Ishikawa feature in promotional materials.
Renowned in Japan, Ishikawa’s involvement is likely to attract a broader Japanese audience to Australia.
Tourism Australia aims to expand the GIGA Selfie experience to more destinations, potentially including other markets beyond Japan.
Tourism Australia’s GIGA Selfie is an inventive initiative, seeking to merge cultural trends with technological innovation.
As Japanese tourists explore Australia’s iconic landscapes, the GIGA Selfie offers them a unique way to record and remember their travels.