Ctrip links up with Japanese insurer

Online travel operator Ctrip has signed an agreement with Japan's largest private insurance provider Tokio Marine Nichido on Tuesday to provide disaster response and earthquake prevention guides to Chinese tourists in Japan.

Utilizing the insurance provider's real-time links with Japanese emergency services and its mature disaster response mechanisms, Ctrip will work with the company to provide disaster updates and support for tourists during their stay in Japan.

The collaboration also includes the promotion of destinations in Japan, and facilitating further cooperative relationships with local businesses.

As part of Ctrip' global SOS service network, the collaboration will play an important role in improving user safety on a global scale, the Shanghai-based online travel operator said.

"This collaboration will explore opportunities for diversification of product choices, as well as the provision of services and information to ensure safety of travelers," said Wang Wei, Ctrip's vice president.

The two companies will also establish an information-sharing mechanism to ensure the safety of tourists.