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TIC Certification Program

To improve the quality of services for overseas visitors, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and the Japan Tourism Agency started the 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 classified into 3 categories based on the services and facilities that are available. The certification is valid for 3 years.

  • All Category 1 - 3 Tourist Information Centers display this symbol.

Description of Categories

Here are the major requirements to qualify for each category.

Services and Facilities 3 2 1
Coverage Area
All Japan
Includes neighboring prefectures
Within the area where the information center is located
Language
Full-time English (and 2 or more additional langauges) speaking staff available.
Full-time English speaking staff or video interpretation available.
No full-time foreign language staff on duty. Minimal English services available using translation apps, etc
Days of operation
Open year-round
Open regularly including weekends, especially for local peak tourism season.
Open at least during local peak tourism season.
Wi-Fi
Available on site
Certified Partner Facility
Partner facilities can be certified if they are able to provide impartial information about the local area to overseas travelers, even if that is not their core business.

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages