Japanese outbound travel is experiencing a strong comeback in 2024, with travelers showing an increased desire to explore the world after the pandemic-induced travel restrictions. In 2023, Japanese travelers spent approximately 0.9 trillion Japanese yen on outbound trips, indicating a significant recovery from the low levels seen during the pandemic. While this figure is still lower than pre-COVID-19 levels, it reflects a positive trend, with the travel industry gradually regaining its momentum.
The data from Japan Tourism reveals that Japanese citizens made 2,771,770 visits abroad in 2022, demonstrating a gradual return to international travel. This trend continued into 2024, with an estimated 888,767 visits abroad in April alone. The year-to-date (YTD) period from January to April 2024 saw a total of 3,926,021 visits abroad, further highlighting the increasing interest in international travel among Japanese residents.
Popular destinations for Japanese travelers in April 2024 included South Korea, the US, and Thailand, which are consistently ranked among the top choices for outbound travel. The growing popularity of these destinations is attributed to various factors, including cultural similarities, visa-free access, and attractive tourist offerings.
The upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024 presents a significant opportunity for the Japanese travel industry. With Japan having visa-free access to 196 countries, including France, Japanese travelers have ample options for exploring new destinations and enjoying the global sporting event. This ease of travel, combined with the allure of the Olympics, is expected to further boost outbound travel from Japan.
Key airports in Japan, including Narita, Haneda, and Kansai, are witnessing a surge in international departures. Narita International Airport, located near Tokyo, recorded 265,661 international departures in April 2024, representing a growth of 33.9%. Haneda Airport, renowned for its convenience and proximity to central Tokyo, saw 305,050 international departures, marking a growth of 24.6%. Kansai International Airport, celebrated for its innovative architecture and excellent connectivity, recorded 158,125 international departures in April 2024, with a significant growth of 39.2%.
Major airlines like ANA, JAL, and Peach Aviation are key players in this rebound of outbound travel. ANA, known for its exceptional service and extensive network, is facilitating the journeys of Japanese travelers to popular destinations like South Korea, the US, and Thailand. JAL, renowned for its top-notch customer service and reliability, is also playing a vital role in supporting the growing number of Japanese residents traveling abroad, including those planning trips to the Paris Olympics. Peach Aviation, Japan’s leading low-cost carrier, offers affordable fares, making international travel more accessible for Japanese citizens, contributing to the overall increase in outbound visits observed in 2024.
The resurgence of Japanese outbound travel in 2024 is a positive sign for the travel industry, demonstrating its resilience and adaptability. The increasing number of outbound visits, coupled with the upcoming Paris Olympics, presents an exciting opportunity for travel advisors to craft unforgettable experiences for Japanese travelers, ensuring their journeys are memorable and hassle-free.
