A review of tourism impacts and strategies: An introduction to Wakayama Tourism Review Volume 2

Two years on from when tourism was halted global tourism, there is now a glimpse of hope for the sector to kickstart again. While recent studies have shown a deep interest in COVID-19 related research, much of the research have focused on the Western context. This short communication paper presents the emerging studies related to the impacts of the pandemic from different perspectives, with a focus on Japan and the Asia Pacific. Additionally, the research sheds light on the opportunities that emerge during this challenging time by examining tourist behaviors, tourist segments, and strategies for destination management and marketing that would be key to reopen tourism. This short communication paper launches the second volume of Wakayama University's Center for Tourism Research affiliated researchers.