Osaka Castle Reigns As Top Draw To Foreigners

Above, yours truly at Osaka Castle in 2015.

Over the years, I have been to Osaka Castle twice.

The first was during the 2004 G-TOUR, a tour of Japan of Godzilla fans to sites and attractions associated with "The King of the Monsters." Osaka Castle was featured in Godzilla Raids Again (1955). The second time was during my 2015 trip to Japan.

Above, Osaka Castle in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

According to an article posted by Kyodo News, Osaka Castle reigns as the top draw among foreign visitors.

It begins with:

TOKYO, Japan Wire - Osaka Castle was the most popular of Japan’s castles among foreign visitors in 2025, topping rankings for both Asian and Western tourists, according to an analysis by travel app provider Navitime Japan Co. 

While the two visitor groups showed different preferences further down the rankings due to travel styles, Osaka Castle reigned as the universal favorite between January and December last year, in rankings based on an association list of 100 notable castles in Japan.

Tokyo-based firm Navitime Japan used GPS data and survey responses gathered from users of its travel service app for foreign visitors, Japan Travel by Navitime, to compare the number and length of visits to castles between Asian and Western visitors for the analysis published in April.

Among visitors from Asia (predominantly Taiwan, Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, and China), Nagoya Castle and Kumamoto Castle made up the top three behind Osaka. 

Nijo Castle, in Kyoto, and Himeji Castle completed the top three for Western visitors (predominantly from the United States, Australia, and France). 

To read more, go here. 

Kyoto Hikes Hotel Tax To Deal With Overtourism

Above, Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji "Golden Pavilion". Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the past 25 years, I have been to Kyoto, Japan twice. But each time I stayed at hotels in neighboring Osaka. It was not that I was avoiding Kyoto, it just happened to work out that way (one was with a tour).

Over the past several years, Kyoto has been hit with hordes of tourists. The Japanese refer to it as overtourism. 

Kyoto is taking a stand against overtourism by reforming their hotel tax. 

According to Travel and Tour World:

In a decisive move to address the growing challenges posed by overtourism, Japan has introduced a groundbreaking hotel tax reform in Kyoto, one of its most iconic and historically significant cities. This bold initiative aims to manage the surging influx of international visitors, which has put immense pressure on the city’s infrastructure and local communities. With tourism in Kyoto reaching unprecedented levels, the new tax is designed not only to generate vital revenue for preserving the city’s cultural heritage but also to ensure sustainable tourism practices. By introducing a tiered tax structure based on accommodation costs, Japan seeks to balance the needs of tourists and residents, safeguard Kyoto’s historic charm, and improve the quality of life for locals, setting a powerful precedent for other destinations grappling with similar issues worldwide.

In a significant move to address the growing challenges of overtourism, Japan has approved an overhaul of its hotel tax. This measure follows a sharp rise in international visitors to the country, particularly in Kyoto, one of its most popular tourist destinations. The government’s decision to introduce the highest-ever hotel tax in the city comes in response to a rapid increase in tourism that has placed significant pressure on local infrastructure and residents.

Currently, the accommodation tax in Kyoto is capped at ¥1,000 (approximately £4.90) per night. Under the new rules, however, the city’s accommodation tax will increase dramatically, with projections suggesting a rise from ¥5.2 billion (around £25.5 million) to ¥12.6 billion (approximately £61.7 million) in annual revenue—a staggering 142% increase. The new tax system will vary depending on the price of accommodation, ensuring that higher-end hotels contribute more toward managing the impacts of tourism.

To read the full article, go here. 

Japan’s Summer Holiday Travel Rush Is Here

Above, the famous Miyajima Island torii gate. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The summer travel rush in Japan has just started. 

Tourists, foreign and locals, are flocking to places around the country and filling up bullet trains and other public transportation.

According to Travel and Tour World:

Japan’s summer travel surge is here, and it’s feeling hot literally and figuratively. Trains and planes to Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka are sold out. Families are reuniting, tourists are sightseeing, and everybody is moving, moving, moving. Long check-in lines, crammed concourses, and sold-out flights tell you this season is all systems go.

Last Saturday, JR Tokyo Station buzzed loud. Every Nozomi shinkansen seat zooming to Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka disappeared. Travelers formed long queues for unreserved seats on other lines, turning platforms into crowded waiting zones. Doesn’t stop there: expressway bumper-to-bumper jams sent drivers cursing. Many ducked into waiting rooms and concourses, seeking A/C relief from the summer furnace.

I have been to Japan during the summer once (that was the first G-TOUR in 2004) and it was very hot, especially in Kyoto. My preferred seasons for Japan travel are spring and autumn.

To read more, go here. 

Japan Becomes Top Pick For Global Tourists In 2025

Above, Asahi Beer Hall and Golden Flame in Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is not so surprising that Japan is becoming a top pick for global tourists this year. This has been the case when pandemic-related restrictions ended.

This has prompted Travel and Tour World to post an article on Japan's booming tourism.

They begin it with:

In 2025, Japan is enjoying a robust tourism and travel boom, owing to more than 28.5 million international visitors in just the first half of the year, and projections now exceed 40 million for the whole year. This comes off the back of Japan’s cultural wealth, travel-friendly infrastructure, and international events such as World Expo 2025 in Osaka. This increase in tourism is also attributed to the demand for culturally immersive activities, Japan’s favorable exchange rates, and the fact that it caters to everyone from luxury seekers to solo and family travelers—making it one of the top travel places this year.

To read more, go here. 

Foreign Tourists Outnumber Japanese Ones In Kyoto Hotels In 2024

Above, Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion in Kyoto in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The last time I was in Kyoto, Japan was in October 2015. It was during a day trip to see places like Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion and Kiyomizu-dera,

We stayed in nearby Osaka during this trek. 

SoraNews24 reported that Kyoto hotels has seen more foreign tourists than Japanese ones in 2024.

They wrote:

Japan’s former capital experiences a historic first as inbound travel boom continues and Japanese travelers avoid staying in the city.

Recently, with Japan experiencing a surge in inbound international travelers, it’s not unusual to hear locals remark “These days, it feels like there are more foreign tourists in [sightseeing place] than Japanese people!” Oftentimes this is an exaggeration, but in the case of hotels in Kyoto, it’s the statistical truth.

The Kyoto municipal government recently released its tourism-related numbers for 2024, reporting that during the year 8.21 million foreign travelers stayed in hotels within Kyoto City. That’s the largest number ever, and a 53.2-percent increase from the previous year. It’s also the first time in history for more foreign travelers than Japanese ones to stay in Kyoto hotels, which received 8.09 million Japanese guests in 2024.

To read more, go here. 

Japan's "Golden Route" For First-Timers

Above, Osaka Castle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who have never been to Japan, there are several websites that will greatly aid in one's vacation planning. 

One such site has posted an article on "The Golden" route that is aimed to first-time visitors. It was posted by Japan Today.

It begins with:

TOKYO - The Golden Route is the quintessential travel itinerary for first-time visitors to Japan. It traditionally includes Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and (sometimes) Hiroshima, offering a well-rounded introduction to Japan’s modern and historical sites. This route is ideal for first-time visitors as it provides a mix of modern cityscapes, historical sites, natural beauty and cultural experiences. The entire journey typically takes 7 to 14 days, depending on how long you stay in each location.

The Golden Route is well-connected by the Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet train, making travel between major stops fast and convenient. Local train lines, buses and subway networks will also make accessibility a breeze in each city. Many travelers opt for the Japan Rail (JR) Pass, which offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including Shinkansen services, making it a cost-effective option.

This guide provides a summary of each destination in the order you would travel, including practical travel information.

To read more, go here. 

Why Everyone Will Be Going To Osaka In 2025

Above, yours truly at Osaka Castle in 2015.

Besides Tokyo, Osaka, Japan is a big draw to foreign visitors. One also has to include nearby Kyoto. Usually, one doesn't visit Osaka or Kyoto without going to the other. 

The last time I visited Osaka was in 2015. Of course, we also had to visit Kyoto, but we stayed in Osaka during that portion of the trip. 

The highlights of the visit to Osaka were Osaka Castle and the Dotonbori district.

Above, Japan's food capital is Osaka's Dotonbori district. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Condé Nast Traveler has posted an article on why everyone will be traveling to Osaka in 2025.

They begin it with:

With a long history as Japan's mercantile heart and major port of call, Osaka is dense and delightfully in your face. Now, as it gears up to host World Expo 2025 this month and welcome more travelers than ever before, the neon-lit metropolis has been reinventing itself. It has launched several ambitious urban renewal projects—like the Grand Green Osaka, a 22-acre mixed-use development that is transforming a freight terminal into verdant public spaces—to draw leisure seekers beyond the usual tourist haunts. The city has also lured some of hospitality's most luxurious names: The Four Seasons arrived last August, and the Waldorf Astoria opens its first hotel in Japan this month. Star chefs from Japan and abroad are shaking up the dining scene with inventive gastronomy, though delicious casual eats from rough-and-ready street stalls and mom-and-pop shops are still Osaka's calling card. Among Japan's major cities, Osaka remains unique: unpretentious, energetic, and ready to show you a good time—as long as you know where to go.

To read more, go here. 

60th Anniversary of Japan's Bullet Train

Above, the first Shinkansen train I rode in 2001. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Introduced just a few days before the 1964 Tokyo Olympic games, Japan's Shinkansen (bullet train) was introduced into service with the Tokaido Line between Tokyo and Osaka.

This year marks 60 years since that event and bullet trains serve passengers with more lines around the country. The country will celebrate this milestone this coming Tuesday.

Above, a Shinkansen's car interior. Photo by Armand Vaquer. 

I have been on several bullet trains over the years including the aforementioned Tokaido Line and routes to Sendai, Fukuoka and Sendai. The ride is so smooth that its speed is not noticeable until the train passes one going the opposite direction and the air cushion between them hits.

Above, a Shinkansen arrives at Atami Station in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

.Here's a video from British Pathé:

 

Here's a video from the Film Archive of Japan:

 

Osaka World Expo 2025

Above, the time capsule from World Expo '70 at Osaka Castle.

Osaka is getting geared up for next year's World Expo.

The city last hosted the World Expo in 1970. During G-TOUR in 2004, we saw a time capsule from the 1970 World Expo on the grounds of Osaka Castle (image above). Will it be opened during next year's World Expo?

According to AP News:

OSAKA, Japan (AP) — Visitors to Tokyo and Kyoto might not realize it, but Osaka — one of Japan’s biggest and oldest cities, known more as a business hub than a tourist destination -- is gearing up to host next year’s World Exposition.

The city has been plastered with the Expo’s red-and-blue “Myaku-Myaku” mascot for months and is abuzz with preparations. For many here, the excitement is mixed with nostalgia for the last World Expo hosted by Japan, back in 1970.

There are doubters, especially outside Osaka. Construction costs are turning out to be exponentially higher than expected. Preparations have been marred by political and business infighting. And many Japanese, jaded after Tokyo’s difficult experience hosting the Olympics during the COVID pandemic, question whether the idea of a World Expo is still relevant.

Many retain vivid memories of the 1970 Expo. They remember schoolchildren attending multiple times, particularly those from the Osaka area. There were long lines to see the moon rocks on view at the U.S. pavilion; prototypes of electric cars; displays featuring the first ethernet cables (LAN); and the introduction of Western foods like yogurt and baguettes.

To read more, go here.

Osaka: "The Kitchen of Japan"

Above, along with food, Osaka's Dotonbori has interesting restaurant signage to view. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those of you who are planning to travel to Japan and are foodies, the place to go to is Osaka.

Osaka's Dotonbori district is the city's food center. I last went there in 2015 and partook in Osaka's cuisine.

CNN has posted an article on Osaka being the "kitchen of Japan."

It begins with:

Osaka, Japan (CNN) - Let’s be honest. Osaka hasn’t got Tokyo’s mind-bending urban sprawl, where every turn opens up a world of adventure. Likewise, it lacks the historic temples, tree-covered hills and ancient history of Kyoto.

What it does have, though, are two of the biggest draws any visitor to Japan could ask for. The best food anywhere in the country. And the people, who are funky, fun and playful.

This is a place to come and eat, enjoy the odd local brew and take in a city where day-to-day pleasures come to the fore unlike anywhere else.

Food is practically a religion in Osaka, which is now anticipating the global spotlight as it gears up to host Expo 2025. It is known as the kitchen of Japan, and, for foodies, any tour of its myriad culinary delights must start in Dotonbori.

To read more, go here. 

Osaka Considering New Tourist Tax

Above, a moat of Osaka Castle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The U.S. isn't the only country who has gone "tax crazy" these past several years.

The prefecture of Osaka is considering a new tax on tourists to make the region more attractive and investing in the region's tourism infrastructure. 

According to the South China Morning Post:

Another popular tourist destination in Japan is planning to introduce a new levy on foreign visitors, with the governor of Osaka prefecture vowing that the funds generated from the tax will be reinvested into the region’s tourism infrastructure.

Industry insiders and analysts broadly agree that an additional small daily levy would not place too much of a burden on travellers or put others off visiting Osaka – but they emphasise that the prefecture must keep its promise to plough those funds back into the tourism sector.

Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura announced on Wednesday that he would set up a panel to consider the new levy in April and to examine the effectiveness of an existing accommodation tax.

To read more, go here. 

Shōgun and Osaka Castle

Above, Osaka Castle in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in the 1980s, there was a mini-series based on James Clavell's book, Shōgun. It was basically a soap opera set in feudal Japan. 

It was an enjoyable mini-series and, in 1977, I met James Clavell in Sacramento at a birthday party at the Capitol.

Above, James Clavell is at right in the background. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Shōgun is now back in the form of a new FX mini-series. It is seeing rave reviews.

One place that the new mini-series is set at is Osaka Castle. I visited Osaka Castle twice. The first was in 2004 with G-TOUR and then in 2015.

Screen Rant has posted an article on the significance of Osaka Castle in Shōgun.

They begin it with:

The new FX hit series Shōgun features Osaka Castle as a setting, and there's prominent real-world history and information that's fascinating to know about the location. Based on the 1975 novel of the same name, written by James Clavell, the 2024 TV series has been met with astounding acclaim, with critics even drawing comparisons to Game of Thrones in the show's scale and production value excellence. Set in the year 1600, Shōgun may be based on a novel, but its narrative is rooted in fascinating history.

To read more, go here. 

Where To Travel In Japan Besides Tokyo

Above, a restaurant at Osaka's Dotonbori district. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of my eight trips to Japan was just confined to Tokyo. It was a short five-day trip, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

I have been as far north (or east) as Sendai and far south (or west) as Kumamoto along with points in-between.

Yahoo! News has posted a list of places to travel to besides Tokyo.

They begin with:

Every few years, certain destinations emerge as major travel hotspots for American tourists. HuffPost recently asked travel experts to predict the most popular choices for 2024, and while many shared a variety of countries, cities, islands and other locales, a lot of them gave the same answer: Japan.

“The destination that comes to mind first for me is Japan,” said Sarah Firshein, head of editorial at Tripadvisor. “With travelers increasingly eager to spend their discretionary income on experiences and activities, I’m fully expecting Japan’s ancient temples, diverse cultures and communities, next-level food scene, and extraordinary art and architecture to be a huge draw in 2024.”

Of course, Tokyo is likely the first city that comes to mind when you think of travel to Japan. But with the growing tourist crowds, you might want to set your sights beyond the capital as well. Below, experts share the other amazing Japanese destinations they recommend.

To read more, go here. 

10 Cheap Japan Solo Destinations On A Single Budget

Above, the Dotonbori District is the heart of nightlife in Osaka. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Seven of my eight trips to Japan was as a solo traveler. It gave me the freedom to do what I wanted and on the spur-of-the-moment at times. 

But I wasn't alone while there. Fortunately, I know people in Japan and we would meet up.

TheTravel has posted an article on 10 solo travel destinations in Japan on the cheap while on a single budget.

It begins with:

Japan is a beautiful and fascinating country with a rich culture and history, but many solo travelers often shy away from visiting due to the perceived high costs of travel, especially in its capital, Tokyo. Known for its technological advancement, sheer beauty, and countless iconic, Instagram-worthy spots, it’s easy to see why many would think it’s exceptionally expensive. However, the truth is that Japan can also be a budget-friendly destination, and there are many affordable attractions and experiences that a single person can enjoy without breaking the bank.

This article introduces readers to ten of the cheapest experiences for solo vacationers in Japan. From exploring ancient temples and shrines to enjoying delicious local cuisine, readers will discover that Japan has plenty to offer for those on a tight budget, above and beyond the famous landmarks it’s known for. By the end of the article, readers will better understand how to experience the best of Japan without spending too much money. Here are 10 cheap solo travel destinations in Japan for those on a single budget.

To read more, go here. 

Japan Announces Measures To Combat Overtourism

Above, Kyoto's Kinkakuji "Golden Pavilion". Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since the pandemic ended, Japan has been coping with overtourism, particularly in popular cities of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.

The hiking of the prices of JR Rail Passes may contribute to the lowering of numbers of foreign tourists to places outside of Tokyo. 

According to TravelPulse:

Japan’s tourism ministry outlined its new plans to combat overtourism this week, ranging from strengthening transportation systems in large cities like Tokyo to encouraging a greater spread of tourism to lesser-known destinations. 

According to The Japan Times, a large part of the program is expanding bus and taxi fleets in popular areas, especially during heavy tourist seasons. Direct bus routes to popular destinations from major stations that are designed specifically for tourist use are also being considered.

The tourism ministry will also consider ways to encourage a wider spread of travelers to lesser known areas to direct traffic away from Tokyo, Kyoto and other popular destinations. 

While the country has nearly reached its pre-pandemic level of visitor totals, the majority of these travelers tend to concentrate in popular destinations like Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto, leading to overcrowding in these cities. 

To read more, go here. 

TheTravel: Things To Do In Osaka

Above, for foodies, Osaka's Dotonbori district is the place to go. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When one visits Japan, they should venture out of Tokyo to see other regions and cities. There are definitely noticeable differences everywhere one goes.

One place that should be on everyone's "bucket list" is Osaka. I have visited it twice and had an enjoyable time each time. 

Above, yours truly at Osaka Castle in 2015.

For kaiju fans, Osaka was featured in Godzilla's Counterattack (1955) (a.k.a. Godzilla Raids Again) and Godzilla vs. Biollante (1989).

TheTravel has posted their "complete guide" of things to do in Osaka in three days.

They begin it with:

Osaka, the heart of Japan's Kansai region, is renowned for its culinary culture and street food scene. From mouth-watering Takoyaki to savory Okonomiyaki, Osaka's local cuisine will tantalize even the most discerning of taste buds.

But exploring the city's food culture is not the only attraction — Osaka also boasts a rich history and a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. From the iconic Osaka Castle, a towering monument to Japan's rich feudal history, to the neon-lit streets of the Dotonbori district, a sensory explosion of colorful signs, bustling crowds, and mouth-watering aromas, there's no shortage of amazing experiences to be had in this incredible city.

Joining the ranks of Tokyo and Kyoto as one of Japan's must-visit destinations, Osaka is a city that rewards exploration, discovery, and a willingness to dive headfirst into the unknown. So pack those bags and prepare to discover the rich tapestry of culture, history, and cuisine that makes this city such a beloved destination for travelers from around the world.

This complete guide is the perfect companion to discovering the best that Osaka has to offer. Get ready to fall in love with Osaka's dynamic energy and indulge in some of the best street food in the world.

Above, a view of Osaka Business Park from Osaka Castle. It got
trashed by Godzilla in Godzilla vs. Biollante. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here.

Japan Rail Pass Price Hikes Will Be A Big Blunder

 

Above, Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji. The rail pass price hike will solve Kyoto's over-tourism. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The planned JR Rail Pass price hikes set for October will effectively kill the convenient and affordable means of travel throughout Japan for many. Paying nearly $500 for a 7-day rail pass would not be cost-effective for foreign travelers unless they take more than two round-trips from Tokyo to Osaka.

The Japanese government had been clamoring for years that they'd like to see foreign visitors travel to other places in Japan besides Tokyo. This will effectively kill that. Is this supposed to encourage the tourism industry? How idiotic!

Prior to the pandemic, Kyoto had been complaining about over-tourism to the city by foreigners, some of which were ill-mannered. Well, this will certainly solve that problem! Who wants to pay sky-high prices to go to Kyoto or Osaka? I went to both cities in 2015 with the JR Rail Pass. It appears that that will be my last time visiting them.

This will also hurt the merchants in Japan. Instead of spending money in shops, restaurants and hotels in areas outside of Tokyo, people will pay for the higher rail pass prices instead or just not travel around the country as they once did. Is this going to aid the Japanese economy?

I could understand a more moderate price increase, but to hike rail pass prices by 70% is ridiculous. It won't be worth getting anymore. If the price hikes as announced goes through, this will land on the list of Japan's biggest blunders. R.I.P. Japan Rail Pass!

Between now and October, people should be raising holy hell over this!

Osaka Castle, Osaka's Civic Symbol

Above, Osaka Castle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

What Japanese castle was demolished in the second Godzilla movie?

For a G-fan that answer is easy. It was Osaka Castle in (where else?) the city of Osaka in Godzilla's Counterattack (or Godzilla Raids Again) in 1955. It got demolished during the battle between Godzilla and Anguirus.

The current Osaka Castle was built in 1931 and has now served as a symbol of Osaka for over 90 years. I first visited the Castle in 2004 during G-TOUR and then in 2015.

The Japan News has posted and article on Osaka Castle with some interesting history on the structure.

It begins with: 

OSAKA — Ask a child, “Who built Osaka Castle?” and the answer you’ll probably get is, “Carpenters!” Yet people who know their history are just as likely to say “Toyotomi Hideyoshi.” Turns out, both answers are correct.

Hideyoshi was a powerful warlord who unified Japan in the late 16th century before the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate. He is especially popular in Osaka as a historical figure who rose to power from a peasant background.

However, when it comes to the current Osaka Castle tower that has been transformed into a modern museum with the appearance of a keep, the “carpenters” answer to the riddle is still correct. The castle tower was built by major construction company Obayashi Corp.

The eight-story structure with reinforced concrete was built in 1931 as part of a project to commemorate the accession of Emperor Showa to the throne five years earlier. Since then, it has served as a landmark as well as a symbol of Osaka for more than 90 years.

To read more, go here. 

Tokyo Cheapo's Shinkansen Guide Video

Above, a Shinkansen view of Mt. Fuji while en route to Osaka from Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that foreigners can travel again to Japan, here's something that will be helpful if one is planning to travel outside of Tokyo to other cities.

Tokyo Cheapo has posted a video guide for using the famous bullet trains, or Shinkansens, while in Japan. 

According to the video posting:

Wondering whether the Shinkansen (that’s the bullet train) might be the best way to get from one part of Japan to another? This a comprehensive guide to taking some of the fastest trains in the world, from speeds to seat reservations, luggage and the Japan rail passes.

Here's the video:

International Tourism To Japan Hardly "Moved The Needle"

Above, the Dotonbori area of Osaka in pre-pandemic days. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

International tourist arrivals hardly "moved the needle" in Japan. This is the case despite the foreign exchange rate between the dollar (and other currencies) and the Japanese yen being the most favorable in years.

That's according to an article in the Asahi Shimbun. 

Here's some snippets:

While Japan eased its travel restrictions on international arrivals in June hoping to attract more overseas visitors, new data shows the move barely even moved the needle.

Tourism officials said the number of overseas visitors has not increased significantly due in part to a resurgence of coronavirus cases in the country.

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) reported on Aug. 17 that there were only 144,500 foreign arrivals in July, including those who flew to Japan on business, to study, or through the Japanese government’s job training program for young people from developing countries.

A JNTO official said several factors contributed to the dwindling tourism figures. They include the Omicron subvariant driving up COVID-19 cases across Japan, the stringent anti-coronavirus measures put in place at airports, and the government’s decision to only allow in tourists taking part in group tours.

To read the full article, go here.