TSMC's Kumamoto presence boosts Taiwan travel, local businesses see more Taiwanese tourists

Japanese actress Mariko Okubo's YouTube visit to Kumamoto to gauge the effects of TSMC's semiconductor plant has revealed a surprising surge in local connections with Taiwan.

Okubo's street interviews showed that many Kumamoto residents now travel to Taiwan three to four times a year. They cited the increased convenience of travel and praised Taiwan's food, fruits, and ice cream. Beyond tourism, local businesses have also noticed a significant increase in Taiwanese visitors.

A bar employee mentioned frequently serving Taiwanese customers, noting that despite language barriers, communication often happens through simple English and gestures. She described Taiwanese people as generally friendly and always smiling, leaving a positive impression.

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This year, I go to Taiwan at least 3 or 4 times.

Another interviewee, a performer, observed that more Taiwanese tourists are visiting Kumamoto, describing them as enthusiastic. They expressed a hope for more Taiwanese friends to visit the region.

The video has sparked positive reactions from Taiwanese netizens, who commented on the growing number of people visiting Kumamoto and the strengthening ties between Taiwan and Japan, partly attributed to TSMC's presence. Many expressed a desire for continued friendship between the two nations.

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Taiwanese people are generally very friendly and always have smiles on their faces.