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New data released by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has revealed that Australians are returning to Japan in higher numbers than before the pandemic. Despite global visitor numbers to Japan still being down by 34% in March 2023 compared to March 2019, Australian visitation has exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 2.3% in March 2023.

According to JNTO Sydney Office Executive Director Yoko Tanaka, Australians have a strong affection for Japan, and this sentiment has remained throughout the pandemic, despite border closures. The March 2023 figures also show that Australia is one of only five key markets worldwide to have seen an elevation in pre-pandemic visitor numbers alongside the US, Canada, Mexico, and the Middle East.

Japan reopened its borders to overseas arrivals in October 2022, and since then, its COVID-19 rules have been gradually eased. From May 8 2023, international visitors will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination upon arrival in Japan, making travel to Japan even easier.

The JNTO data reveals that the return of Australian visitors to Japan is a positive sign for the tourism industry, which the pandemic has hard hit. Flights to Japan from Australia are still on a recovery trajectory. With more direct connections between the countries expected to become available in the coming months, it is hoped that even more Australians will be able to visit Japan shortly.

Tanaka is excited to see what lies ahead, especially with the cherry blossom season in full swing and the northern hemisphere summer just around the corner. She said, “We’re looking forward to welcoming even more Australians to Japan in the near future.”