Watazumi Shrine in Japan Closes Doors to Foreign Tourists: The Ghost of Tsushima Effect
The Watazumi Shrine on Tsushima Island, Japan, has long been a point of interest for international visitors. However, the shrine administration has unexpectedly decided to close its doors to foreign tourists. This decision is attributed to the intense interest the shrine has seen in recent years and, reportedly, inappropriate behavior from some visitors. But how is this related to the game *Ghost of Tsushima*?
The *Ghost of Tsushima* Influence
The Watazumi Shrine gained global recognition following the release of the *Ghost of Tsushima* video game in 2020. The game’s Scarlet Rock Shrine, inspired by Watazumi Shrine, transformed the site into a magnet for gamers and tourists alike. In 2020, when the shrine suffered significant damage after a super typhoon, an international fan-led fundraising campaign raised $180,000 for its restoration.
Popularity Comes at a Price
However, this popularity brought challenges. The shrine administration stated it was increasingly disturbed by instances of “disrespectful behavior.” In a statement on social media, they mentioned experiencing “unforgivable disrespect,” putting significant strain on the management.
Watazumi Shrine previously imposed a ban specifically targeting South Korean tourists. Now, this ban has been extended to all foreign visitors. This decision is largely attributed to the popularity generated by *Ghost of Tsushima*. It is believed that the shrine, having gained immense fame through the game, has become a target due to overwhelming interest.
This situation raises the ongoing question of balancing cultural and religious preservation with tourism. The decision of the Watazumi Shrine continues to spark debate among both tourists and local residents.