Japan’s tourism sector experienced a significant boost in 2024, with total hotel stays reaching a record 651.49 million, a 5.5% increase compared to the previous year. With nearly 36.9 million visitors in 2024, Japan has surpassed its previous annual record from 2019 by approximately 5 million.
There was a nearly 40% surge in foreign visitors, whose overnight stays at hotels and traditional inns jumped to 163.48 million. The weaker yen played a crucial role in attracting international tourists, making Japan a more affordable destination.
In contrast, overnight stays by Japanese residents declined by 2.3% to 488.01 million. Despite the decrease in domestic travel, the overall increase in hotel stays signifies a strong recovery and growing interest in Japan as a global travel destination.
The influx of tourists is concentrated in major urban areas like Tokyo, Aichi, and Osaka. To address issues related to overtourism, the government is implementing measures to encourage travel to less-visited regions. In December 2024 alone, total overnight stays reached 55.82 million, up 6.3% from the previous year, with foreign travelers accounting for 15.29 million of those stays.
Tottori and Ishikawa prefectures experienced the highest growth rates in stays by foreign visitors, at 117% and 116% respectively. This surge in inbound tourism has led to unprecedented spending, with visitors spending over JPY8 trillion (US$51.3 billion) for the first time.
The average spending per visitor in 2024 was JPY227,000 (US$1,457), with tourists from the U.K. spending the most per capita at JPY383,000 (US$2,458). Chinese visitors, the second-largest inbound market, contributed the highest overall spending, totaling JPY1.73 trillion (US$11.1 billion).
More Stories
New York City and Nashville to Lead U.S. in Hotel Room Openings in 2025
Canadian Travel Boycott Threatens U.S. Tourism Amid Tariff Dispute
Dubai to Unveil World’s Tallest Wellness Resort, Therme Dubai, by 2028