Japan Reports Surge in Tourism Arrivals from India

A record 36.9 million international visitors came to Japan in 2024, up 47.1% year on year. The figure announced by the Japan National Tourism Organization is 5 million more than the previous record of 31.9 million set in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourists flocked to the country especially at peak times, such as for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, as well as during the summer vacation.

One of the standout moments of the year was March 2024, which saw approximately 27,206 arrivals—a remarkable 83.0% year-over-year (YoY) growth. Another significant milestone came in May 2024, which recorded the highest monthly influx of around 29,068 arrivals, reflecting a strong 61.6% YoY increase. May has traditionally been a favored travel period for Indian families, aligning with summer vacations in India and the conclusion of Japan’s ‘Golden Week,’ a time when domestic travel slows down. This perfect timing makes Japan an attractive destination for Indian tourists. The overall surge in arrivals highlights India’s economic growth, increasing disposable incomes, and a rising inclination among Indian travelers to explore diverse international destinations. Affluent Indian tourists, in particular, are actively seeking unique and culturally immersive experiences, positioning Japan as a top choice for their travels.

In this exclusive interview, Sanjay Dhar, Founder & CEO of Travel and Food Network, engages in an insightful conversation with Ryo Bunno from Japan National Tourism Organisation. to discuss everything from trending destinations to visa processes and the best times to visit. Let’s get started!

To begin, how is Japan’s tourism doing currently?

Japan’s tourism is seeing strong growth post-pandemic, with record visitor numbers in 2020. The overall global visitor count was around 36 million. For India specifically, we saw about 233,000 visitors in that year.Leisure tourism makes up about 50% of our visitor numbers, followed by business, visiting friends and relatives (VFR), students, and labor migration.

Which are Japan’s top five tourist markets?

The majority of visitors come from East Asia, with South Korea, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong leading the numbers. The United States is also a key market.

Which destinations in Japan are most popular among Indian travelers?

Most first-time Indian travelers follow what we call the Golden Route: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. However, we’re seeing growing interest in alternative routes like the Alpine Route, which has landscapes similar to Switzerland. Also, Hokkaido has become a favorite due to Bollywood movie shoots there, increasing its popularity among Indian tourists.

Besides cherry blossom season, which other seasons are great for Indian travelers?

While cherry blossoms are very popular, we are promoting autumn foliage as an alternative. Autumn in Japan offers a climate similar to spring, but the foliage lasts longer—around a month—compared to the brief cherry blossom season, which lasts only about a week. The landscapes in places like Kyoto and Nikko are breathtaking during this time.

How long does it take for an Indian tourist to get a visa for Japan?

Visa processing depends on the embassy, but generally, after submission, it takes about five working days. However, travelers should plan ahead, as the initial preparation phase takes some time.

Who do you see as your main competitors for attracting Indian travelers?

While some Asian countries may receive significantly higher number of Indian tourists, however we consider European countries as key competitors as Japan appeals to travelers looking for premium, unique cultural experiences rather than budget trips. Japan is a higher-end destination, and our tourism strategy focuses on quality over quantity.

Flights can be a challenge—how accessible is Japan from India?

Currently, Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) operate flights from India to Narita and Haneda airports in Tokyo. There are direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with increased frequency planned for the summer schedule. Many Indian travelers also use connecting flights via Singapore, Bangkok, or Dubai.

What is your tourism goal for India this year?

We don’t have an official target, but India is a priority market. Japan and India’s governments are also strengthening tourism and business relations, so we expect significant growth in visitor numbers.

With Osaka hosting the Expo, how are you encouraging travelers to explore beyond just the event?

We’re using a regional promotion strategy. Visitors attending Expo 2025 in Osaka will be introduced to nearby areas such as Nara, Kobe, and Wakayama. We are promoting these regions through travel agencies rather than direct advertising. Our B2B model ensures that travel agents educate Indian travelers about these lesser-known destinations.

Food is a major concern for Indian travelers. How does Japan cater to vegetarian and Indian dietary preferences?

In major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, there are many Indian restaurants, and hotels offer vegetarian options. However, in regional areas, vegetarian food is limited. The Japanese government is encouraging restaurants to cater to vegetarian and vegan dietary needs.

What unique experiences can Indian travelers explore beyond Tokyo and Kyoto?

For travelers looking beyond the usual routes, we recommend:

1. Alpine Route – Scenic landscapes resembling Switzerland, ideal for nature lovers.
2. Hokkaido – Famous for winter sports, onsens, and scenic landscapes.
3. Okinawa – A tropical island with beautiful beaches and diving experiences.
4. Cultural Villages – Places like Shirakawa-go and Takayama offer a glimpse into Japan’s traditional lifestyle.

Thank you for this insightful conversation! Any final message for Indian travelers?

Japan offers a unique blend of history, modernity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for cherry blossoms, food, or cultural experiences, we guarantee a memorable journey. We look forward to welcoming more Indian travelers soon!

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