As we welcome in 2025, EXO Travel Japan began this promising year with our cherished tradition: a visit to a Shinto shrine for a company blessing. This annual ritual is a heartfelt moment for us, where we express gratitude for the year gone by and pray for prosperity, health, and success in the year ahead. It’s a symbolic way to align our goals and spirit as we embark on another exciting chapter together.
Reflecting on 2024, we’re filled with pride and gratitude. Japan reached a historic milestone, welcoming over 36 million visitors—a record-breaking achievement that highlights the country’s timeless allure.
This year, the world’s eyes turn to Japan once again as we prepare to host the highly anticipated Osaka World Expo 2025. Running from April to October, the Expo will spotlight cutting-edge innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration, making it one of the most significant international events of the year. We’re thrilled to see how this global showcase will inspire millions and further solidify Japan’s reputation as a hub of creativity and progress.
January may be a quieter travel period, but for those of us in the tourism industry, it’s a bustling time filled with planning and preparation. With the peak booking season in full swing, we want to send a heartfelt otsukaresama deshita (thank you for your hard work) to everyone working hard behind the scenes to create incredible experiences for our guests.
Here’s to a year of new opportunities, unforgettable adventures, and meaningful connections. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to crafting more memorable journeys with you in 2025!
Destination News
- Toyama Featured in The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2025”
Toyama Prefecture has been spotlighted in the highly anticipated New York Times 52 Places to Go in 2025, highlighting its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural offerings. Beautiful landscapes and fresh seafood, particularly its prized firefly squid and yellowtail, are praised in the article, solidifying Toyama’s place as a must-visit for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Disney-Themed Shinkansen Debuts
From February 21 to mid-September 2025, a Disney-themed Shinkansen will run between Tokyo and Osaka, offering a magical travel experience. Operating two round trips per day on weekends and holidays, the train will feature whimsical Disney-inspired interiors and exterior designs, creating a delightful journey for families and fans of the beloved franchise.
- TeamLab Planets Expansion
The immersive art experience teamLab Planets Tokyo is undergoing an exciting expansion! On January 22, 2025, the venue will unveil new attractions, including the much-anticipated Athletic Forest, designed to encourage playful, physical interaction with digital art installations. This expansion will offer even more opportunities for visitors to engage with teamLab’s world-famous blend of technology, creativity, and sensory exploration.
- Miyajima Ropeway Closure
Travelers planning to visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island should note that the Miyajima Ropeway will be closed for scheduled maintenance from January 20 (Monday) to March 10 (Monday), 2025.
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