Latest news with #JapanNationalTourismOrganization
Kyodo News
2 days ago
- Kyodo News
Chinese tourists returning to Japan with new travel style
KYODO NEWS - 1 hour ago - 12:39 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism Chinese tourists are driving a recent surge in inbound travel to Japan, with arrivals now exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels, though their travel habits are shifting noticeably. Previously, Chinese tourism in Japan was defined by large group tours and shopping sprees known as "bakugai." Nowadays, however, more travelers are seeking immersive experiences related to Japanese cuisine, culture and scenery, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. A total of 3.13 million Chinese travelers visited Japan in the first four months of this year, topping the 2.89 million recorded during the same period in 2019. While the number of visitors from China was slow to rebound after the pandemic, arrivals have steadily increased since the Chinese government lifted its ban on group tours to Japan in 2023, reaching 2.42 million that year and 6.98 million in 2024. Growth has continued into 2025, with year-on-year increases of 135.7 percent in January, 57.3 percent in February, 46.2 percent in March and 43.4 percent in April. The shift in travel preferences is partly driven by Chinese travelers in their 30s and 40s, many of whom have visited Japan before, now choosing family trips with their children over group tours. The JNTO is working to better target that market, including opening an account on a popular Chinese social media platform last fall. Meanwhile, visitor numbers from Hong Kong, which are tallied separately from mainland China, increased 30.8 percent in January from the previous year but declined 5 percent in February and 9.9 percent in March. A Japanese manga predicting a major disaster in Japan this July is believed to have discouraged travel. Posts about the manga "The Future I Saw" went viral after some claimed that its artist, Ryo Tatsuki, also predicted the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan, among other events. Nevertheless, April saw a strong rebound, marking a 42.9 percent increase from the previous year. At a press conference earlier this month, Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Naoya Haraikawa dismissed the concerns, saying, "I believe they currently have no real impact." Related coverage: Foreign visitors to Japan in April set monthly record at 3.9 million Japan to give South Koreans fast-track entry in June to mark ties anniv. Japan to launch prescreening of visa-free travelers in FY 2028
Kyodo News
2 days ago
- Business
- Kyodo News
Chinese tourists returning to Japan with new travel style
KYODO NEWS - 5 minutes ago - 12:39 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism Chinese tourists are driving a recent surge in inbound travel to Japan, with arrivals now exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels, though their travel habits are shifting noticeably. Previously, Chinese tourism in Japan was defined by large group tours and shopping sprees known as "bakugai." Nowadays, however, more travelers are seeking immersive experiences related to Japanese cuisine, culture and scenery, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. A total of 3.13 million Chinese travelers visited Japan in the first four months of this year, topping the 2.89 million recorded during the same period in 2019. While the number of visitors from China was slow to rebound after the pandemic, arrivals have steadily increased since the Chinese government lifted its ban on group tours to Japan in 2023, reaching 2.42 million that year and 6.98 million in 2024. Growth has continued into 2025, with year-on-year increases of 135.7 percent in January, 57.3 percent in February, 46.2 percent in March and 43.4 percent in April. The shift in travel preferences is partly driven by Chinese travelers in their 30s and 40s, many of whom have visited Japan before, now choosing family trips with their children over group tours. The JNTO is working to better target that market, including opening an account on a popular Chinese social media platform last fall. Meanwhile, visitor numbers from Hong Kong, which are tallied separately from mainland China, increased 30.8 percent in January from the previous year but declined 5 percent in February and 9.9 percent in March. A Japanese manga predicting a major disaster in Japan this July is believed to have discouraged travel. Posts about the manga "The Future I Saw" went viral after some claimed that its artist, Ryo Tatsuki, also predicted the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan, among other events. Nevertheless, April saw a strong rebound, marking a 42.9 percent increase from the previous year. At a press conference earlier this month, Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Naoya Haraikawa dismissed the concerns, saying, "I believe they currently have no real impact." Related coverage: Foreign visitors to Japan in April set monthly record at 3.9 million Japan to give South Koreans fast-track entry in June to mark ties anniv. Japan to launch prescreening of visa-free travelers in FY 2028
The Advertiser
3 days ago
- The Advertiser
Are Aussies finally jumping on board the futuristic luxury of smart toilets?
They're one of the most used seats in the house, but it's fair to say Aussies haven't given much thought to the good ole dunny, let alone high-tech versions. In nations such as Japan however, smart toilets aren't viewed as a futuristic luxury, but a part of modern living. The idea of needing more than a basic toilet may have raised eyebrows on our shores in the past, but perceptions are rapidly shifting. Australians are getting a taste of the luxury, with the Japan National Tourism Organization reporting that travel to the tech-driven nation was up 42 per cent between January and September 2024, compared to the same period in 2019. Daniela Santilli, Reece Bathrooms and Kitchen merchandising leader says with advancements in temperature technology, water efficiency and hygiene, smart toilets are now more than just comfort, they're also about sustainability and wellbeing. "As Australians continue to invest in wellness-inspired living, the trend towards investing in luxury bathroom features, like smart toilets, shows no signs of slowing down," Santilli said. As Australians become more tech-savvy and conscious of environmental impact and personal health, the adoption of smart toilets is gaining momentum. While there are many features available, there are five game-changers you should know: 1. Heated seats ensure you never have to endure cold seats in the morning. This advanced heating technology provides a warm and cosy throne, allowing users to adjust the temperature to their preference. 2. Next-level technology (such as the Roca In-Wash Inspira Smart Toilet and the Roca In-Wash Inspira In-Tank Smart Toilet), redefine bathroom luxury with innovative features such as adjustable pressure and temperature, cisternless technologies, hygienic bowl treatments and elegant aesthetics. 3. Spa-like vibes transform your bathroom into a wellness retreat, elevating overall hygiene and comfort. 4. Self-cleaning magic makes cleaning your toilet easier, with features including a self-cleaning nozzle, rimless designs, removable seats and added protective bowl treatments. 5. Using less water for each flush makes smart toilets more eco-friendly. The only question left is: are we ready to flush away the old ways and embrace the future? They're one of the most used seats in the house, but it's fair to say Aussies haven't given much thought to the good ole dunny, let alone high-tech versions. In nations such as Japan however, smart toilets aren't viewed as a futuristic luxury, but a part of modern living. The idea of needing more than a basic toilet may have raised eyebrows on our shores in the past, but perceptions are rapidly shifting. Australians are getting a taste of the luxury, with the Japan National Tourism Organization reporting that travel to the tech-driven nation was up 42 per cent between January and September 2024, compared to the same period in 2019. Daniela Santilli, Reece Bathrooms and Kitchen merchandising leader says with advancements in temperature technology, water efficiency and hygiene, smart toilets are now more than just comfort, they're also about sustainability and wellbeing. "As Australians continue to invest in wellness-inspired living, the trend towards investing in luxury bathroom features, like smart toilets, shows no signs of slowing down," Santilli said. As Australians become more tech-savvy and conscious of environmental impact and personal health, the adoption of smart toilets is gaining momentum. While there are many features available, there are five game-changers you should know: 1. Heated seats ensure you never have to endure cold seats in the morning. This advanced heating technology provides a warm and cosy throne, allowing users to adjust the temperature to their preference. 2. Next-level technology (such as the Roca In-Wash Inspira Smart Toilet and the Roca In-Wash Inspira In-Tank Smart Toilet), redefine bathroom luxury with innovative features such as adjustable pressure and temperature, cisternless technologies, hygienic bowl treatments and elegant aesthetics. 3. Spa-like vibes transform your bathroom into a wellness retreat, elevating overall hygiene and comfort. 4. Self-cleaning magic makes cleaning your toilet easier, with features including a self-cleaning nozzle, rimless designs, removable seats and added protective bowl treatments. 5. Using less water for each flush makes smart toilets more eco-friendly. The only question left is: are we ready to flush away the old ways and embrace the future? They're one of the most used seats in the house, but it's fair to say Aussies haven't given much thought to the good ole dunny, let alone high-tech versions. In nations such as Japan however, smart toilets aren't viewed as a futuristic luxury, but a part of modern living. The idea of needing more than a basic toilet may have raised eyebrows on our shores in the past, but perceptions are rapidly shifting. Australians are getting a taste of the luxury, with the Japan National Tourism Organization reporting that travel to the tech-driven nation was up 42 per cent between January and September 2024, compared to the same period in 2019. Daniela Santilli, Reece Bathrooms and Kitchen merchandising leader says with advancements in temperature technology, water efficiency and hygiene, smart toilets are now more than just comfort, they're also about sustainability and wellbeing. "As Australians continue to invest in wellness-inspired living, the trend towards investing in luxury bathroom features, like smart toilets, shows no signs of slowing down," Santilli said. As Australians become more tech-savvy and conscious of environmental impact and personal health, the adoption of smart toilets is gaining momentum. While there are many features available, there are five game-changers you should know: 1. Heated seats ensure you never have to endure cold seats in the morning. This advanced heating technology provides a warm and cosy throne, allowing users to adjust the temperature to their preference. 2. Next-level technology (such as the Roca In-Wash Inspira Smart Toilet and the Roca In-Wash Inspira In-Tank Smart Toilet), redefine bathroom luxury with innovative features such as adjustable pressure and temperature, cisternless technologies, hygienic bowl treatments and elegant aesthetics. 3. Spa-like vibes transform your bathroom into a wellness retreat, elevating overall hygiene and comfort. 4. Self-cleaning magic makes cleaning your toilet easier, with features including a self-cleaning nozzle, rimless designs, removable seats and added protective bowl treatments. 5. Using less water for each flush makes smart toilets more eco-friendly. The only question left is: are we ready to flush away the old ways and embrace the future? They're one of the most used seats in the house, but it's fair to say Aussies haven't given much thought to the good ole dunny, let alone high-tech versions. In nations such as Japan however, smart toilets aren't viewed as a futuristic luxury, but a part of modern living. The idea of needing more than a basic toilet may have raised eyebrows on our shores in the past, but perceptions are rapidly shifting. Australians are getting a taste of the luxury, with the Japan National Tourism Organization reporting that travel to the tech-driven nation was up 42 per cent between January and September 2024, compared to the same period in 2019. Daniela Santilli, Reece Bathrooms and Kitchen merchandising leader says with advancements in temperature technology, water efficiency and hygiene, smart toilets are now more than just comfort, they're also about sustainability and wellbeing. "As Australians continue to invest in wellness-inspired living, the trend towards investing in luxury bathroom features, like smart toilets, shows no signs of slowing down," Santilli said. As Australians become more tech-savvy and conscious of environmental impact and personal health, the adoption of smart toilets is gaining momentum. While there are many features available, there are five game-changers you should know: 1. Heated seats ensure you never have to endure cold seats in the morning. This advanced heating technology provides a warm and cosy throne, allowing users to adjust the temperature to their preference. 2. Next-level technology (such as the Roca In-Wash Inspira Smart Toilet and the Roca In-Wash Inspira In-Tank Smart Toilet), redefine bathroom luxury with innovative features such as adjustable pressure and temperature, cisternless technologies, hygienic bowl treatments and elegant aesthetics. 3. Spa-like vibes transform your bathroom into a wellness retreat, elevating overall hygiene and comfort. 4. Self-cleaning magic makes cleaning your toilet easier, with features including a self-cleaning nozzle, rimless designs, removable seats and added protective bowl treatments. 5. Using less water for each flush makes smart toilets more eco-friendly. The only question left is: are we ready to flush away the old ways and embrace the future?
Axios
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Axios
Hokusai's Japan comes to Chicago in new exhibit
Immerse yourself in the rich world of historical Japanese art and culture this summer just an hour's drive from the city. Why it matters: For the first time, the " Hokusai & Ukiyo-e: The Floating World" exhibition is visiting the U.S. At the Cleve Carney Museum of Art in Glen Ellyn, you can see artifacts, paintings and original works by Hokusai as well as handcrafted objects from the Edo period. The vibe: You can also explore an immersive, comic-inspired room by Vanessa and Kevin Vu, owners of Chicago's 2d Restaurant. The space is great for photo-ops and takes you through the evolution of manga-Japanese comics. There are hands-on activities for kids inside the discovery center, and you can step outside to explore the Great Wave Gardens. Context: A record 3.3 million foreigners traveled to Japan in July 2024, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Americans made up about 8% of inbound tourists last July. What they're saying:"Japanese Ukiyo-e artists have had a profound influence on global visual culture, and although these works are centuries old, they continue to resonate powerfully with counterpart audiences," curator Justin Witte said in a statement. My thought bubble: This exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring other cultures or fascinated by Japan's shogun era. You can also try Edo-inspired food and grab some memorabilia at the gift shop. If you go: The exhibit opens Saturday at the Cleve Carney Museum of Art on the College of DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn.
Economic Times
6 days ago
- Economic Times
Indian tourism blossom in Japan with record high visits in 2024
Indian travel to Japan reached new heights in 2024, with both the number of visitors and spending figures showing strong growth. According to data released by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi Office, 233,000 Indian travellers visited Japan last year, contributing approximately 56.1 billion yen (₹3,366 crore) to the Japanese economy. The Japan Tourism Agency reported that the average Indian visitor spent 241,590 yen (around ₹1.45 lakh) per trip—a 53.6% increase compared to 2019. The average length of stay also rose significantly to 16.3 nights, suggesting a shift towards more immersive travel experiences. Most Indian travellers explored Japan independently, with 86.9% of leisure tourists preferring to travel without guided group tours. Nearly 65% were first-time visitors, and a large portion followed the popular 'Golden Route' covering Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. The JNTO Delhi Office is now promoting lesser-known destinations to spread tourism across more regions and showcase Japan's diversity beyond major cities. The first quarter of 2025 continued this upward trend. Between January and March, 62,100 Indian travellers visited Japan—a 24.8% increase year-on-year. February saw a 29% rise in arrivals, driven by interest in Japan's winter scenery, especially in Hokkaido. In April, 37,300 Indian tourists arrived during the cherry blossom season, setting a new monthly record. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Indian tourists showed a clear preference for comfort and cultural engagement. Spending was highest on accommodation (43.2%), followed by shopping (19.5%), dining (19.4%), transport (14.3%), and attractions (3.6%). The upcoming Expo 2025 in Osaka is also drawing attention, particularly the India Pavilion, which features exhibits focused on India's cultural, spiritual, and technological JNTO Delhi Office noted that rising awareness of Japan's seasonal and cultural offerings is encouraging more Indians to consider it a long-stay destination.
