Japan Welcomes Record Number of Tourists in August, Fueled by Chinese Travelers
Tokyo, September 18, 2023 – Japan saw asurge in tourism in August, with the number of foreign visitors reaching a record high for the month, driven by a rebound in Chinese travelers. According to the JapanNational Tourism Organization (JNTO), 2.933 million foreign visitors arrived in Japan in August, a 36% increase compared to the sameperiod last year. This figure also surpasses the pre-pandemic levels of August 2019 by 16.4%.
The resurgence in tourism is attributed to a combination of factors, including the weakening Japanese yen, which makestravel to Japan more affordable for foreign visitors. The increase in flight connections between Japan and China, particularly since July, has also played a significant role in boosting Chinese tourism.
Chinese tourists accounted for the largest share of visitors in August,with 745,800 arrivals, marking a doubling of numbers compared to the same period last year. This makes China the top source of tourists for two consecutive months.
Other notable increases in visitor numbers came from South Korea (612,100, up 7.6%), Taiwan(564,300, up 42.4%), and Hong Kong (246,600, up 19.6%).
While the overall number of foreign visitors has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, the number of Japanese travelers leaving the country in August was 1.437 million, a 19.7% increase compared to the previous year but still 31.9% lower than August 2019.
This significant increase in tourism is a welcome sign for the Japanese economy, which heavily relies on tourism revenue. The resurgence of Chinese tourists, in particular, isa positive development, as they are known for their high spending habits.
However, the tourism sector still faces challenges, including the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to address concerns about the environmental impact of mass tourism.
The JNTO expects the positive trend in tourism to continue in the coming months, particularly with the upcoming autumn season and the 2025 World Expo in Osaka. The organization is working to promote Japan as a safe and attractive destination for international travelers, with a focus on sustainable tourism practices.
The resurgence of tourism in Japan is a testament to the country’s resilience and its enduring appealas a travel destination. As the world continues to recover from the pandemic, Japan is poised to capitalize on the growing demand for international travel, offering visitors a unique blend of tradition, modernity, and natural beauty.
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