TIC Certification Program
In an attempt to further enhance the experience of all those traveling to Japan, JNTO and the Japan Tourism Agency began a TIC (Tourist Information Center) Certification Program in 2012 and have since approved over 1,500 qualified tourist information centers throughout Japan. Tourist information providers are divided into three categories based on function. The program also includes a three-year renewal system to promote excellent customer service.
Description of Categories
Here are the major requirements to qualify for each category.
| Services and Facilities | 3 | 2 | 1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage Area | |||
| All over Japan | ● | ||
| Neighboring prefectures | ● | ||
| Within the city / prefecture | ● | ||
| Language | |||
| Service is available in English and 2 other languages, with full-time staff | ● | ||
| English-speaking staff are on duty full-time | ● | ||
| No full-time staff with foreign language skills on duty. However, service is available with minimal English and other languages may be available | ● | ||
| Days of operation | |||
| Open year-round | ● | ||
| Open more than 240 days/year including either Saturdays or Sundays | ● | ||
| Open more than 240 days/year | ● | ||
| Internet PC and Wi-Fi | |||
| Available on site | ● | ||
- Partner
- Some partner facilities are also available to assist foreign tourists with local information without any commercial or financial purposes. Even with no full-time staff speaking foreign languages fluently, these facilities willingly provide assistance with minimal English.
