Japan Travel Update - Q2 2025
Is it April already?!
Yup, time sure flies, doesn’t i?!
And speaking of flying, that’s what a record number of travelers are doing to Japan this year.
As we step into the second quarter of 2025, Japan's travel scene continues to evolve, offering both exciting opportunities and new challenges for visitors.
Here's a rundown of the latest developments shaping the experience of traveling to Japan.
Cherry Blossom Season: A Timeless Spectacle & Japan Travel Classic
The allure of Japan's cherry blossoms, or sakura, remains unparalleled.
Hanami, the cherished tradition of flower viewing, has seen locals and tourists alike gathering under the blooming canopies for picnics and celebrations.
Notable spots such as Yoshino Mountain in Nara Prefecture; Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture (near Kobe, Osaka & Kyoto); all around Kyoto itself; and Tokyo sakura icons such as the Meguro River and Ueno Park have been particularly popular.
Given the high demand during this season, securing accommodations and transportation in advance is essential. If you’re reading this and planning for cherry blossom season 2026, best to plan and book early!.
Expo 2025 Osaka: Countdown to Innovation
Anticipation builds as Osaka prepares to host Expo 2025 from April 13 to October 13.
The event promises a showcase of innovation, culture and sustainability through its Signature and Global Pavilions. These pavilions will highlight cutting-edge technology and environmental solutions, aligning with the Expo's theme of "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."
Visitors are told to look forward to immersive experiences that reflect Japan's commitment to shaping a better, more connected world.
Though to be honest, this is a bit of a wild card – at least at the time of this article’s publication. We don’t know much about Expo. There hasn’t been a ton of buzz locally about it, and since the gates aren’t open yet, we’re relying largely on blueprints, artist renditions and organizer marketing.
Still, it’s kinda exciting, having a world expo in our backyard (being based in Kobe, next to Osaka). We plan to go, for sure. And we’ll be happy to bring you updates in this space.
Japan’s Tourism Surge: Record-Breaking Numbers
Japan's tourism industry continues to thrive, with January 2025 marking a record 3.7 million international visitors. That’s a 40.6% increase compared to the same month in 2024.
This surge is attributed to factors such as Japan’s renowned winter sports offerings and cultural attractions. Notably, travelers from China, South Korea and the United States have contributed significantly to these numbers.
The trend underscores Japan's enduring appeal and the effectiveness of its tourism initiatives.
There’s a lot of upside for both Japanese people and visitors in this boom. But there are also a few ongoing challenges.
Crowds are getting bigger – at least in Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka (aka the “Golden Route”) as well as places like Hiroshima, Sapporo, Fukuoka & Kanazawa – and hotel prices & availability reflect that.
But get out beyond these popular spots, off the beaten path if you will, and Japan is an amazing place to visit pretty much anywhere, anytime.
It’s our continued pleasure and honor to be able to help clients from all corners of the world to experience this timeless and exciting travel destination of Japan.
Cruise Industry in Japan: Riding the Wave
The cruise sector in Japan is experiencing a remarkable revival.
In 2024, Japan welcomed 36.8 million tourists, including a notable increase in cruise passengers. The Japan National Tourism Organization aims to accommodate 2.5 million international cruisers and over 2,000 visiting ships in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic figures.
Major cruise lines are expanding their operations in Japanese waters, offering travelers unique perspectives of the nation's coastal beauty and port cities.
For us here in Kobe, we can see the ships sailing in and out pretty much on the daily. And more & more these days we get to talk to some cruise passengers on the street, as well as among our clientele.
Air Travel Updates: Enhancing Routes to Japan
In a significant shift, ride-sharing services are set to debut in Osaka starting April 2025.
This initiative aims to address the anticipated shortage of taxi drivers during Expo 2025 and, if successful, could lead to broader adoption across other Japanese cities.
Meanwhile, Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) have been introducing new international routes to improve connectivity. JAL's new routes include Tokyo Narita to Chicago, while ANA has launched flights from Tokyo Haneda to Milan, Stockholm & Istanbul.
Both companies are also beefing up operations on their low-cost carrier subsidiaries. JAL group in particular is stepping up their game in the US with ZIPAIR Tokyo, flying affordable nonstops from San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Jose, Houston and Honolulu – as well as other global destinations such as Vancouver, Singapore, Manila and more. ANA’s AirJapan flies to Singapore, Bangkok & Seoul, with eyes on more destinations in the near future.
These developments promise to make Japan travel more widely available to global travelers.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel
As Japan's popularity as a travel destination grows, there's an increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism.
Travelers are encouraged to explore lesser-known regions, support local businesses and minimize their environmental footprint. With the yen stabilizing (at the moment) and new tax regulations in place, planning and budgeting for trips are essential. Nonetheless, Japan continues to offer enriching experiences for all who visit.
If you’re keen on being part of the solution when traveling to Japan, we’d be happy to discuss ways in which you can contribute to a positive, sustainable, long-term future for Japan tourism.
Or if you have any questions in general, or would like to hone your Japan travel itinerary, why not schedule a free consultation with Japan Travel Pros?! Use the calendar tool below to find a day & time that works for you.