Autumn colours have started to emerge in the trees of Hokkaido, the last summer festivals are being held, and there are less than six months until the opening of Osaka’s EXPO 2025. The weather is cooling down but Japan is heating up in terms of autumn peak season!
Japan remains one of the most popular international destinations for tourists, and has been chosen as the “Most Attractive Country” for two years straight by readers of Condé Nast Traveler.
However, the country is looking for solutions to manage the crowds and raising efforts to promote lesser-known destinations off the Golden Route.
A registration-system, similar to the USA’s ESTA, is expected to be implemented in the future, and we will follow-up with additional information when we know more.
Key takeways:
- Hands Free Bus service launched in Kyoto: A new bus service will run in Kyoto from 1 October to 27 December, offering a convenient shuttle-bus sightseeing option for travellers with large suitcases. Guests can store luggage under the bus while sightseeing and avoid the long queues and crowds of normal buses and taxis. Eight daily buses will operate between Kyoto Station and major hotels. Pre-booking and payment are available up to 2 hours before departure, though walk-on seating is possible if space allows.
- Nozomi Shinkansen New Year seat reservations: JR West has announced that from 27 December to 5 January, Nozomi Shinkansen will operate as “reserved seat only.” Unreserved seating will not be available during this time. This policy, which began during the 2023 year-end season, has proven effective in reducing congestion on station platforms.
Destination News
- Nintendo museum open in Uji: On 2 October, the new Nintendo Museum opened in Uji, just outside of Kyoto City. Tickets are by lottery system, but they will be sold on first-come-first-serve basis if tickets remain on the day. January 2025 drawings are open until 31 October.
- Hotel closure: Associa Takayama: Associa Takayama is expected to close for renovation work in 2026. Additional details will be disclosed at a later time, but is expected to be completely closed for renovation from April 2026.
- Hotel renovation- Ritz Carlton Tokyo: Ritz Carlton Tokyo will be affected by some renovation work from May 2025. It is expected to operate partially, with some rooms or areas not available.
- New hotel on Lake Toya: Boroku Lake Toya, a luxury boutique hotel on Lake Toya in Hokkaido will open on 25 December. The concept is an aesthetic sense of peace that connects inside and outside. The property will feature spacious windows with Lake Toya views and a rooftop terrace overlooking the shore.
- Renovation of Nachisan Three-Story Pagoda: The iconic Nachisan pagoda on the Kumano Kodo trails is currently undergoing renovation and painting. The pagoda will be partially or fully covered until the work is completed, tentatively scheduled for December 2024.
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