The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi Office announced a remarkable milestone: 2,33,000 Indians visited Japan from January to December 2024, representing a significant 40.0% increase in tourism from India compared to 166,394 visitors in 2023. A highlight of the year was March 2024, which recorded approx. 27,206 arrivals, reflecting an impressive 83.0% YoY growth. Another remarkable milestone was May 2024, which saw a 61.6% YoY growth and the highest monthly influx, with approx. 29,068 arrivals. May is traditionally a popular month for Indian families, as it coincides with summer vacations in India and end of Japan’s ‘Golden week’ marking the off season for domestic travel. This makes it an ideal matching for Indian tourists to visit Japan.
INDIAN MICE MOVEMENT IN JAPAN
Additionally, 2024 saw the introduction of MICE movement to new regions, with some incentive tours extending their itineraries to Kansai and Hiroshima, whereas Tokyo had previously been the sole MICE destination. This clearly demonstrates the growing interest among Indian corporates and MICE planners to explore new locations for their MICE events.
This trend has been further boosted by promotional airline fares and improved connectivity. In 2024, Bengaluru (South India)-Tokyo route increased to five weekly flights. As of the winter schedule for 2024-2025, there are now 26 direct flights per week connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to Japan, significantly improving convenience for travelers. Additionally, recent codeshare agreements between airlines are set to enhance seamless connectivity from multiple Indian cities, further contributing to the anticipated growth in tourist numbers to Japan.
GOLDEN ROUTE TO TOKYO
First-time Indian visitors predominantly favour the iconic ‘Golden Route,’ which includes Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Moreover, the JNTO Delhi Office is actively promoting other stunning prefectures, such as Hokkaido, renowned for its powder snow and flower fields; Tohoku, with its vibrant autumn foliage; and Tateyama Kurobe Alpine route, a mountain sightseeing route connecting Nagano prefecture and Toyama prefecture, best known for its ‘Snow Wall’. These efforts aim to showcase Japan’s diverse beauty and encourage Indian tourists to expand their itineraries beyond the classic ‘Golden Route.’ As Japan prepares to take the global spotlight with “Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan” the country is poised to build on this momentum, inviting Indian travellers to explore its unparalleled charm.
The overall growth in arrivals reflects India’s economic prosperity, rising disposable incomes, and a growing trend among Indians to explore new international destinations. Affluent Indian travellers are increasingly seeking fresh, culturally enriching experiences, positioning Japan as a prime destination.
