TOKYO : The volatile stock market and a strong yen may be hurting Japanese companies which are largely export-driven, but there are some businesses trying to take advantage of the strong Japanese currency.

Travel agencies in Japan are out to attract travellers taking advantage of the strong yen.

"We are setting the direction to recommend South Korea's Seoul... It's been well received," said Natsuki Maeda, branch manager, Shinjuku head office, H.I.S. Japan.

Since November 10, the travel agency, well-known for its discount packages, has been offering 2 night-3 day airfare and hotel packages for about US$200.

A 3-day trip to Taiwan costs the same price, and all seats were sold out in 30 minutes. Other tours to Asian destinations such as Bangkok and Beijing are also drawing customers.

"There are many places in Asia. It'll be nice to go to different places while it's cheap," said one Japanese. He added that a stronger yen might encourage him to travel more.

According to the Japan National Tourist Organisation, the number of Japanese travelling abroad has fallen this year.

During the January to September period, it fell 6.4 percent compared to the same time last year. This was mainly due to the weak economic situation and hike in fuel surcharge.

Japan's biggest travel agency JTB, which normally sets tours far in advance, is now trying to take advantage of the strong yen.

"There are packages we put together every year. But due to the higher yen, we're encouraging shopping overseas because our customers will feel they have benefited... We're targeting this towards 15 cities," said Megumi Shibuichi, Public Relations Department, JTB Corp.

But how about the currency's impact on foreign tourists?

"Foreign travellers from Korea and the United States have decreased slightly. However, we still have a lot of overseas travellers from Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asian countries coming to Japan," said Akane Matsuo, Sales and Marketing Division, Japanican.

To encourage more foreign tourists, JTB is offering bullet train and hotel packages at more than 50 per cent discount. - CNA /ls