A government opinion poll showed Thursday that 65.4 percent of people expect benefits for the economy from rising numbers of foreign tourists.

Fifty percent said they thought regional economies would benefit, while 46.3 percent said they expect it will contribute to mutual understanding between Japanese and foreigners. Multiple answers were allowed.

The Cabinet Office survey was conducted as part of the government’s efforts to make Japan what it calls a “tourism-oriented” nation.

Survey participants were asked what they believe will be the effect of having higher numbers of visitors from abroad.

Forty-two percent said they expect no negative impact, but 29.5 percent expressed fears for security, 25.5 cited a culture clash, and 20.0 percent pointed to difficulties communicating with foreigners.

An official of the Cabinet Office said Japanese people as a whole harbor no adverse feelings toward foreigners even though the numbers of visitors have been increasing rapidly.

People were also asked for opinions on how to boost tourist numbers from now on. Just over half of respondents, or 51.7 percent, said there should be more foreign-language information at airports and train stations. A further 45.8 percent said there should be more campaigns overseas to promote Japan’s attractions, and 36.3 percent called for an increase in the number of foreigner-friendly accommodation facilities.

The survey was conducted on 3,000 adults between Aug. 20 and 30, with 58.6 percent giving valid answers.