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What nationality visits Japan the most?

Published in Japan Inbound Tourism 2 mins read

Based on the most recent available data for October 2024, South Korea is the nationality that visits Japan the most.

In a specific snapshot of international travel to Japan during October 2024, South Korean nationals constituted the largest group of foreign visitors. This highlights a strong and active travel corridor between South Korea and Japan, often influenced by their geographical proximity and frequent transportation links. Following South Korea, visitors from China and Taiwan also represent significant portions of Japan's inbound tourism market, emphasizing the strong regional travel ties within East Asia.

Top Nationalities Visiting Japan

To provide a clearer picture of the leading sources of inbound tourism, here's a breakdown of the top nationalities by visitor numbers for October 2024:

Rank Nationality Number of Visitors (October 2024)
1 South Korea 732,100
2 China 582,800
3 Taiwan 478,900

Factors Driving Inbound Tourism to Japan

The consistent high volume of visitors from these neighboring countries can be attributed to several key factors that make Japan an attractive and accessible destination:

  • Geographic Convenience: Short flight times and numerous direct routes make Japan an ideal choice for quick getaways or longer holidays from nearby East Asian countries.
  • Cultural Appeal: Japan's rich cultural heritage, unique traditions, and pop culture appeal strongly to tourists seeking diverse experiences.
  • Economic Accessibility: Favorable exchange rates and competitive travel packages can make trips to Japan more affordable for international travelers.
  • Seasonal Attractions: Japan offers distinct experiences throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage to winter sports, attracting repeat visitors.
  • Robust Tourism Infrastructure: Excellent public transportation, high-quality accommodation, and tourist-friendly services enhance the visitor experience, encouraging more international arrivals.

These factors collectively contribute to the sustained interest and high visitation rates from key markets, with South Korea currently leading the way in contributing to Japan's vibrant tourism sector.