Japan remains a popular destination for global travellers

Travellers worldwide have thrown their support behind Japan and its tourism industry, following the devastating earthquake in March, with more than two thirds of holidaymakers open to visiting the country.

Japan ranked in the top three favourite global destinations for more than half of respondents worldwide, with the majority preferring a visit to the capital, Tokyo. In an encouraging sign for the Japanese tourism industry, 86 per cent of respondents say they would consider a trip to Japan within the next year. 

Flight and hotel costs were a major incentive for travellers, with almost 70 percent declaring they would visit Japan now if the price was right. Japan’s local food, culture and sight-seeing were also important motivations.

Mr. Hideki Yokoyama, Senior Director, Tourism Division, Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs of Tokyo Metropolitan Government said, “I am very encouraged by the fact that so many people have stated that they are, “willing to travel to Japan,” or “would like to plan a trip to Japan next year” in the survey conducted by your company. I am also delighted with the result that ranks Japan within the top three in the "Favourite Travel Destination Ranking", particularly the comment that many people are hoping to visit Tokyo.

 I hope that everyone will actually visit Japan and get to experience Tokyo in the present, which has not changed from before. Moreover, I would like everyone to see that Japan as a whole is working together for recovery.  Tokyo's fantastic hospitality never changes. Please feel safe to visit Japan. Tokyo welcomes all of you. ”

“It is great to see the intention to travel to Japan remains, despite the recent natural disasters, and that it has been named a favourite destination,” said Johan Svanstrom, Vice President and Managing Director of Hotels.com Asia Pacific. 

To support and accelerate Japan’s recovery, it is important that travellers continue to contribute to its tourism industry and economy. Much of Japan remains open for business, and it is vital that the global travel industry supports Japan’s tourism operators and hotels.”“Searches for Japan on Hotels.com Asia sites have remained steady and it is heartening to see the Japanese tourism market recovering and attracting travellers,” he said.

Source - 4hoteliers