Japan witnesses record-breaking year for tourism with 40% visitor growth from India, ET TravelWorld

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi Office has announced a historic milestone: a record 233,000 Indian tourists visited Japan between January and December 2024, marking a remarkable 40 per cent increase compared to 166,394 visitors in 2023. This surge highlights the growing affinity of Indian travelers for Japan’s unique blend of culture, modernity, and natural beauty.

The land of rising sun witnessed approximately 27,206 Indian arrivals, showcasing an impressive 83 per cent year-on-year growth. May 2024, traditionally a popular month for Indian family vacations, saw the highest influx of visitors, with approximately 29,068 arrivals—a 61.6 per cent year-on-year increase. The timing aligns perfectly with the summer holidays in India and the conclusion of Japan’s Golden Week, creating a favorable window for Indian tourists to explore the country.

2024 also saw a significant expansion in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. Indian corporate groups extended their itineraries to regions like Kansai and Hiroshima, which are emerging as alternatives to the traditionally favored Tokyo. This shift underscores the growing interest among Indian businesses and event planners to explore diverse Japanese destinations for corporate events.

Enhanced connectivity and accessibility
The record-breaking growth has been bolstered by improved air connectivity and competitive promotional fares. In 2024, the Bengaluru-Tokyo route expanded to five weekly flights, while the winter 2024-2025 schedule now offers 26 direct flights per week connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to Japan. Furthermore, new codeshare agreements between airlines promise seamless connectivity from multiple Indian cities, making travel to Japan more convenient than ever.

While first-time Indian visitors typically explore the iconic ‘Golden Route’—comprising Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima—the JNTO Delhi Office has been actively promoting other picturesque regions. Hokkaido’s powder snow and vibrant flower fields, Tohoku’s stunning autumn foliage, and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route’s breathtaking ‘Snow Wall’ are among the new attractions being spotlighted. These initiatives aim to showcase Japan’s diverse landscapes and encourage Indian tourists to venture beyond traditional itineraries.

As Japan gears up to host “Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan,” the country is poised to capitalise on this momentum, inviting Indian travelers to experience its unparalleled charm and hospitality.