New data from Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) shows 115,000 Australians travelled to Japan in April – a huge 42.6% increase on April 2024.
This rounds out an exceptional first few months of 2025 which has seen 429,000 Australians visit Japan, which is a 28.6% increase from the same January to April period last year, and almost half of the total number of 2024 arrivals.
It wasn’t only Australians heading to the Land of the Rising Sun, with Japan also achieving a new monthly record for international arrivals during April of just under four million people.
“Demand has been incredibly strong and these figures are exciting to see, clearly demonstrating that Japan is a popular destination of choice for Australian travellers,” said Naoki Kitazawa, Executive Director for JNTO.
“Increased airline capacity, special offers and a favourable exchange rate are spurring Australian travellers to discover Japan’s distinctive regions, each with their own character, culture and cuisine, from hiking and cycling in magnificent national parks year-round to summer island-hopping in Okinawa or Ogasawara or seeking out authentic one-of-a-kind local experiences.
“While first-time visitors have historically headed to the Golden Route of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, or the ski fields in Hokkaido and Nagano, Japan has so much more to offer, and we are delighted to welcome Australian travellers to embrace it all.”
JNTO anticipates this positive growth will continue throughout 2025 as Australians increasingly consider travelling outside peak seasons and beyond the most popular attractions, both within major cities and beyond.
“Australian travellers are highly valued by Japan. In general, they stay longer than other visitors and many repeat visitors like to expand their horizons and choose new regional areas to explore,” said Andrew Coombs, Media & Marketing Senior Assistant Manager.
“As visitor arrivals grow, we will continue to focus on sustainability, luxury and adventure travel to attract responsible tourists and share the economic and cultural benefits throughout the country.
“This widespread exploration of Japan is being driven by adventure-focused travellers and a new generation who are keen to get out of their comfort zone, respect traditional customs and immerse themselves in local cultures, whether that’s staying in traditional ryokans, participating in artisan workshops or joining culturally significant activities.”
