It’s no secret. Australians are flocking to Japan. What’s less known is that an increasing number are choosing an alternative to traditional accommodation (by that we mean typical Western and Japanese hotels) when they’re there.
According to 2023 research by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), around one in ten Australian tourists in Japan are choosing to stay at the MIMARU apartment chain, a local hotel group that owns and operates some 27 properties in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
MIMARU offers something of a rarity in Japan – outside of Airbnb, that is: self-contained accommodation. With that, it allows visitors to live a little like locals.
Moreover, the hotel group targets both travellers and the trade, evidenced by its presence at this year’s Snow Travel Expo in Sydney and a travel industry roadshow.
Takayoshi Kofune, Sales Manager at Cosmos Hotel Management, the parent company of MIMARU, recently tells Karryon there are many reasons why so many Aussies and travel agents are showing interest in the hotel group.
“For Australian agents, MIMARU in Japan offers a compelling option as a unique hotel choice,” he says.
Kofune says the group’s apartments typically measure over 40 sqm (and up to 100 sqm) – that’s a lot of room compared to the Japanese accommodation that normally awaits Australians used to bigger spaces. They also boast fully equipped kitchens that are “ideal for extended stays”.
The chain’s two-bedroom suites are particularly popular with Australian families, he adds.
Other hotel room types include Japanese-styled abodes and themed rooms like the popular Pokémon Room.
With locations in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Kofune says the hotel group is also “perfect for enhancing holidays with stops before or after skiing” – a winter holiday choice booming among Aussies.
Explore Tokyo from the get-go
Meanwhile, MIMARU has launched a new luggage service for its Tokyo properties called KURO-GO.
Guests who use KURO-GO will have their luggage transported directly from Haneda and Narita airports to their Tokyo MIMARU hotels – and back again the day they leave. This takes the hassle of traipsing luggage around on arrival and departure days in Tokyo – especially for large items such as skis and snowboards – and allows visitors to start exploring one of the world’s most exciting cities straight away.
Read our review of the MIMARU Tokyo Asakusa Station Apartment Hotel, which combines form and function with a lot of convenience – just like the city it resides in.
Recent research by student and youth travel expert StudentUniverse highlights Japan’s ongoing appeal, particularly among young Aussie travellers.
