March marks the arrival of cherry blossom season, the most anticipated time of the year for travelers in Japan.
Once again, the overwhelming demand is pushing our team to its limits, with record-breaking visitor numbers despite the continuous growth of the industry. As always, we encourage travelers to explore Japan beyond sakura season—from wisteria and hydrangea in early summer to snow-covered landscapes in winter, every season offers something extraordinary.
This month also brings important industry developments, as Japan’s fiscal year comes to an end, with potential changes in pricing structures, including entrance fee revisions and tiered pricing systems, expected to be finalized soon.
Meanwhile, all eyes are on Osaka, as Japan gears up for the highly anticipated EXPO 2025, set to open next month. The entire tourism industry is feeling the momentum as preparations ramp up for this global event.
Destination News
- Osaka Expo 2025 – Opening Date
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai is set to open on April 13, 2025, welcoming visitors from around the world for a six-month-long showcase of innovation, sustainability and global collaboration. With an estimated 28 million attendees, the event is expected to be one of the biggest international gatherings of the year.
- Setouchi Triennale 2025 – Contemporary Art Returns to the Islands
The Setouchi Triennale, Spring Session, will be held from April 18 to May 25, featuring artwork across multiple islands in the Seto Inland Sea. This event, held every three years, transforms the region into an open-air museum, attracting art lovers and cultural travelers from around the world. The summer session will cover the whole month of August and the autumn session from October 3 to November 9.
- Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Reopens for 2025 Season
The breathtaking Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, famous for its towering “Snow Walls” will reopen to the public on April 15, 2025. This scenic route, which connects Toyama and Nagano, offers spectacular mountain views and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The Snow Corridor is scheduled to open to pedestrians from April 15 to June 25.
- Quake-Damaged Kagaya Ryokan in Ishikawa to Reopen in Winter 2026
Kagaya, one of Japan’s most renowned ryokan (traditional inns), is set to reopen in winter 2026 after suffering damage from the Noto Peninsula earthquake on January 1st 2024. The ryokan, known for its impeccable hospitality, will undergo extensive renovations to restore its legacy as a premier luxury accommodation in Wakura Onsen, Ishikawa Prefecture. The design of the renewal is carried by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma, and the ryokan is expecting to finish the renewal of all buildings by March 2025.
- Tokyo Metro Introduces Contactless Payment for Subway Travel
Starting this year, Tokyo Metro has launched a new touch payment system, allowing passengers to use credit cards and QR codes for subway rides. This initiative aims to enhance convenience for both domestic and international travelers, eliminating the need for physical tickets or IC cards.
- The Gate Hotel Fukuoka Opening on April 24
A new addition to Fukuoka’s hospitality scene, The Gate Hotel Fukuoka, is set to open on April 24, 2025. Located in the heart of the city, this stylish hotel will offer modern comforts and easy access to Fukuoka’s vibrant food and culture scene.
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