September is a quieter month in Japan; the heat of summer has receded by the mid-month national holiday of Silver Week and preparation for the highly anticipated autumn colours season begins. The vibrant leaves are set to begin their display in mid-September, starting from Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido and working their way south down the Japanese islands.
With the autumn peak season just around the corner, our teams are actively preparing to welcome a wave of clients during this special time. In addition, we are excited to announce that our Assistant Product Manager Hilary Nisbet will be attending the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, strengthening our global partnerships and showcasing the best of Japan to the international market.
Keytakeways:
- IC Card availability
After an extended shortage, Suica and Pasmo IC cards are back! These cards are now available to purchase at tickets machines in Tokyo but only individually by travellers. (bulk purchase by companies is still not available yet) It looks like the shortage problem is finally solved, but sales may be suspended again by JR Rail depending on market demand.
As of now, clients can choose to add a digital IC card to their Apple Wallet, get a Welcome Suica for tourists, purchase a normal IC card as mentioned above, or buy paper tickets with cash for each ride.
With Suica and Pasmo available for individual purchase, it’s a positive step towards a return to normal. However, the situation remains unchanged for EXO and we will not provide IC cards to clients for the time being. When things change, we will let you know.
● Mount Fuji Climbing Season has ended
The Mount Fuji climbing season officially ended on September 10th. It’s worth noting the success of this year’s visitor management measures. The daily visitor limit and the installation of a gate on the Yoshida Trail (Yamanashi prefecture side) effectively reduced overcrowding on Japan’s iconic peak, providing a more sustainable and enjoyable experience for climbers. These steps have set a promising precedent, and Shizuoka Prefecture is now considering similar measures for the next climbing season to further support conservation efforts and manage the growing number of visitors on their side of the mountain.
Destination news
- Hotel opening announcement:
Patina Osaka: With the occasion of Osaka EXPO 2025, Patina Osaka is set to open on April 2nd 2025, next to Osaka Castle Park.
This new 6* property with approximately 220 rooms has a unique design concept based on the memories of Japan’s City of Water. The property is a 20-story building, where rooms and suites incorporate a balance between modern and natural aesthetics, showcasing an uninterrupted view of Osaka Castle.
- Dogo Onsen reopening:
After 5 years of renovation and repair work, the iconic building of Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Ehime is fully reopened. This is Japan’s oldest hot spring facility, and is said to have inspired the scenery found in the film Spirited Away. Visitors can admire traditional architecture and relax in freshly renovated baths.
- Price increase:
Some increases in entrance fees have been announced and they will come into effect from next spring, the start of the fiscal year in Japan:
Matsumoto Castle will rise from 700JPY to 1,300JPY
Osaka Castle will rise from 600JPY to 1,200JPY
Himeji Castle will be the one with higher increase, as a measure to fight overcrowding and fund restoration, implementing a two-tiered system for residents and foreign travelers. Entry is expected to rise from 1,000 JPY to 3,000JPY or 4,000 JPY, probably with the inclusion of coin locker usage.
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