Japan’s tourism leaders are expecting the country to welcome more than 20 million people by the end of this year – four years ahead of schedule.
The announcement was made after arrivals to The Land of the Rising Sun increased by an incredible 47.1 percent last year to reach 19.7 million – only 262,600 short of the big 2020 target.
According to Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO), the big jump in visitors was attributed to ongoing marketing efforts as well as new airline routes (such as Qantas’ Brisbane-Narita and ANA’s Sydney-Haneda).
There was also a favourable exchange rate, particularly for visitors from Australia – a market which grew 24.3 percent on 2014 to reach 376,200. The biggest months for Aus tourism to Japan were January and December with 48,583 and 49,400 arrivals.
Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Executive Director Ms Mariko Tatsumi told KarryOn that the bureau is expecting to meet the 20 million figure over the next 12 months – but doesn’t expect overall growth percentage to be as high as last year.
She said this will be achieved by increasing promotional efforts in key destinations such as Australia as well as refreshing the destination’s online presence with a new website and campaign.
For trade, JNTO will supply consultants with a new e-learning program where they can receive new information about popular tourist spots. There’s also going to famil opportunities for first-hand experience.
“In 2016 we hope to showcase Japan’s regional areas and their unique culture, local cuisine and hospitality, which are now more easily accessible from Australia thanks to improved direct flights and bullet train routes.”
Mariko Tatsumi, JNTO Executive Director
Late last year, Japan was listed as the second top destination to visit in 2016 in the Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2016 list. Read more.
