Friday, July 19, 2024 In June, Japan recorded an unprecedented surge in tourist arrivals, reaching 3.14 million due to the enticingly weak yen, according to the latest figures released by officials on Friday. This surge not only surpassed the previous monthly high set in March but also marked a significant rise from May’s 3.
04 million, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) reported. The total number of travelers visiting Japan hit a new six-month record of 17.78 million by the end of June, potentially setting the stage to exceed the pre-pandemic peak of 31.
9 million visitors in 2019. The significant depreciation of the yen, which has dropped to its lowest in 38 years against the dollar, has rendered Japan a highly attractive destination for international tourists. Record-breaking visitor numbers in June were recorded from 18 out of 23 markets monitored by the JNTO, with Taiwan and the United States seeing the highest figures ever.
The economic uplift from tourist spending is substantial, but it has also led to local discontent and government concerns over the heavy foot traffic and environmental issues at popular sites. In response to over-crowding and environmental degradation, authorities have recently introduced entrance fees and restrictions on the number of hikers on Mount Fuji. Additionally, the mayor of Himeji proposed a plan last month to charge foreign visitors significantly more than locals to access the city’s iconic samurai-era castle.
Top Tourist Spots in Japan Mount Fuji , Japan’s tallest peak, serves as a stunning emblem of the country, attracting sightseers and hikers with its spectacular vistas. At Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion , a Zen Buddhist temple adorned with gold leaf stands amidst exquisite gardens, mirrored beautifully in a pond. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park , a somber memorial to the atomic bomb victims, features the intact Genbaku Dome.
Osaka Castle , encircled by a moat and lush park, provides a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history and is famed for its springtime cherry blossoms. Todai-ji Temple in Nara , housing the Great Buddha statue, stands as a monumental wooden edifice and a vital cultural landmark in Japan. Hakone , renowned for its hot springs, offers Mount Fuji views, museum visits, and picturesque boat cruises on Lake Ashi.
Miyajima , with the Itsukushima Shrine, delights visitors with its iconic floating torii gate and stunning island vistas, earning it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tokyo Tower , modeled after the Eiffel Tower, dominates the skyline, providing sweeping city views and hosting museums and shops..
