Mega events: Why cities are willing to host them, despite the lack of economic benefits

Abstract

This chapter aims to evaluate different aspects of Sport Mega-Events impacts, “legacies”, through a case study of Hakuba village in Japan which hosted the Nagano Olympic Games in 1998. As tangible legacies, jumping facility and cross-country stadia were completed, but they have attracted users and events less than local people’s initial expectations and have placed financial burdens on the municipality. Although transportation network was improved, it has increased day-trippers who spend less money. When it comes to intangible legacies, tourism industries in Hakuba have become more welcoming to foreign tourists and developed a collaborative relationship with village office to make the destination more enjoyable for them. Besides, the increased volunteerism and improved consciousness of environmental protection have been bequeathed among local people.