TOKYO (TVBS News) — As Japan experiences a shift in travel trends, domestic destinations are becoming increasingly popular among the Japanese, a change driven by economic factors and a rebound in the country's tourism sector.
The Japan National Tourism Organization reported that outbound travel in March saw a significant decrease, with only 1.22 million Japanese traveling abroad, marking a 36.8% drop from March 2019.
This decline is attributed to a weaker yen, high airfares, and slow wage growth, prompting many to explore the beauty of their own country instead.
Domestic Travel on the Rise
During Golden Week, a period filled with national holidays, local travelers are showing a strong preference for destinations within Japan, such as Kochi, Atami, Okinawa, and Hokkaido.
This surge in domestic travel interest is further evidenced by a record 3.1 million tourists visiting Japan in March, indicating a significant rebound in the country's tourism sector.
The shift towards local exploration is reshaping the focus of major airlines, with Japan Airlines and ANA increasingly catering to inbound travelers and regions with higher demand.
Airlines Adjust to New Trends
Acknowledging the current travel preferences, Japan Airlines and ANA are adjusting their strategies to better serve the changing market. They anticipate that the recovery in outbound travel may not occur until next year at the earliest, highlighting the lasting impact of economic factors on travel decisions.
