November 27th, 2018, Tokyo — Today, Bear Luxe Japan (BLJ), a network of international luxury travel designers and suppliers operating in Japan, launched an innovative digital portal to seamlessly connect their members at a one-stop window for marketing materials, inquiries, reservations and payments. Founded in partnership with The Ryokan Collection and by a team of luxury travel experts, BLJ has partnered with some of the largest names in Japanese luxury travel to ensure buyers have access to a comprehensive raft of services spanning transportation, accommodation, custom experiences and destination management companies. In addition, Kyoto City Tourism Association has signed on as a partner as part of their initiative to develop more luxury tourism in Japan's former capital. The portal is the first of its kind in Japan, despite the fact that the number of overseas visitors is expected to eclipse 30 million this year, tripling the number from just five years ago. Not only are more people coming to Japan, they are spending more too. The Japan National Tourism Organization reports per capital spending has quadrupled since 2012. With luxury travel a rapidly expanding segment of this tourism boom, buyers have nonetheless mentioned the difficulty communicating with independent Japanese contractors. Meanwhile, suppliers have struggled to reach the international travel trade market due to limited access and the absence of a standard payment and commission system. BLJ provides a smooth solution for both sides. BLJ supplier membership is by invitation only to ensure a high level of service and quality. A dedicated editorial team with experience in luxury travel marketing crafts English marketing and sales materials for each supplier, including photos, and organizes them into an easy-to-navigate, standardized format. Buyers are then able to pursue a collection of curated products, contact the providers and make payments through the portal. Buyers receive a guaranteed minimum commission through an integrated commission processing service. BLJ co-founder and COO Hiroyuki Miyatake said, "Because Japan is a unique market with a lot of independent brands, buyers have often told me that finding and contacting qualified suppliers has been an issue. With the increased interest in Japan as a destination, there is certainly a need for a trusted network and reliable platform." In addition to smoothing the way for luxury travel buyers and sellers, Miyatake hopes the service can provide a way for Japan's traditional craftspeople and artisans to reach new markets and support their struggling industries. "Through this business, I hope to build an ecosystem that will contribute to local traditions, cultures and industries," he said. "Lifestyles in Japan have been changing, and demand for traditional arts and crafts among the younger generation has stagnated, but there is demand among overseas visitors to see and experience that side of Japan, if they can find a way to access it. That's what I hope Bear Luxe Japan will provide." For inquriies contact Bear Luxe Corporation EGG JAPAN 9F Shin-Marunouchi Building, 1-5-1Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6509 TELFAX 03-6339-5061 EMAIL info@bearluxejapan.com About Bear Luxe Japan Bear Luxe Japan is a network of the country's leading luxury travel suppliers dedicated to providing bespoke travel experiences with a human touch. Our industry-first digital portal seamlessly connects buyers and sellers at a one-stop window for marketing materials, negotiations, reservations and payments. Our goal is to contribute to the creation of meaningful luxury travel experiences that support the further development of Japanese culture and tradition and sustain local industries.