NHK has learned that the operator of Narita Airport near Tokyo is to set up a company tasked with boosting tourism in the surrounding areas. The move comes as the airport handles a growing number of foreign travelers.

Narita International Airport Corporation says over 16 million non-Japanese travelers on international flights passed through the airport last year. That is the third-largest figure ever, helped by the easing of the pandemic travel restrictions and the weaker yen.

The Tourism Agency says the average number of nights spent by foreign travelers at accommodations in each Japanese prefecture came to more than 10 in July through September.

But the agency says the number for Chiba Prefecture, which hosts Narita Airport, was just 0.7.

The operator is concerned that tourists are mostly just passing through the areas surrounding the airport. Officials are aiming to attract them to stay.

The new firm is due to be launched later this month. It plans to promote tours including accommodation and develop products featuring local ingredients.

Narita International Airport Corporation says it wants to take advantage of the large number of foreign travelers that use the airport. Officials hope the airport will serve as a stimulus for local tourism.