Japan remains a top destination for western tourists due to the weak yen.
Unfortunately, overcrowding and negative behaviour from some tourists has pushed some local associations to take action to preserve the safety and comfort of locals, as well as maintain the atmosphere of the destinations themselves.
After the implementation in Kyoto’s Gion geisha district of prohibitions on entering private alleys where geisha work, a popular convenience store near Mt. Fuji has blocked the view of the sacred mountain due to crowds constantly gathering to snap an iconic photo. We take this as an opportunity to invite our guests to further explore the lakes as there are ample places in the Kawaguchiko area to take beautiful photos of Fuji-san.
Additionally, Mt. Fuji has implemented a cap on daily access to the summit during the climbing season and other destinations such as Koyasan are considering an entry tax in the future, in order to guarantee a sustainable lifestyle to the local communities.
EXO Travel Japan remains committed to developing tours in lesser known regions, respecting local communities, and giving tourists more reasons to get off the Golden Route. Also, we always recommend that our clients brush up about Japanese travel manners before their trip.
Key Takeaways:
- Mount Fuji Climbing
The climbing season 2024 for Mount Fuji has been announced from July 1st to September 10th. An entrance fee of 2,000 JPY + a voluntary donation of 1,000 JPY will be required for hikers taking the Yoshida Trail, with a daily cap of 4,000 people to be set for entry from this trail.
A reservation system has been implemented on the official site, with at least 1,000 entry tickets bookable in advance. We have more information on these new regulations and for alternative hiking destinations on our blog.
- Guide Training
In June, EXO Travel Japan will host several days of guide training seminars in Kyoto and Tokyo. This training will improve our guides’ skills and make our tours even more enjoyable for guests.
- Okinawa’s Ahren Beach Ranked Among the World’s 50 Best Beaches
Located on Tokashiki Island in the Kerama Islands, Aharen Beach placed 13th among the World’s Best Beaches in a ranking that evaluate 8 main criteria: unique characteristics, wildlife, untouched nature, natural soundtrack, easy-to-enter water, calmness of water, lack of crowds, and frequency of idyllic conditions
Destination news
- Hotel Closure Announcement – Royal Park Shijo in Kyoto will permanently close from September 2024 onwards.
Hotel Renovation Announcement – Noku Kyoto will be affected by some renovation between December 1st 2024 to February 28th 2025. Renovation will take place during the day and only the affected floors will be closed
Hotel New Opening – After the opening of Dhawa Yura Kyoto and Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto, the Banyan Tree Group is opening another luxury property in the city: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto. From August 2024, guests can stay in this 52-room property featuring a Noh sage and natural hot spring, located on a hill in the popular Kiyomizudera district.
DisneySea Fantasy Spring: On June 6th, the new area “Fantasy Spring” will open at Tokyo Disney Sea, adding Frozen, Peter Pan and Tangled lands to this already unique Disney park.
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