With May on the horizon, we are already looking ahead to the next busy period of spring: Golden Week. During this holiday, domestic tourism reaches its peak, pushing the already limited availability of drivers, accommodations, and activities.
During Golden Week, from April 29 to May 6, several national public holidays are observed. Some museums and sightseeing spots offer extended opening hours, while other smaller locations may be closed for the holiday period. Train stations and airports get extremely crowded, so early arrival is suggested for clients travelling at this time.
Please be aware that the EXO Japan office will be closed on Monday April 29 for Showa Day and from May 1-6 for the rest of the Golden Week period. Some staff members will remain working, but please expect extended reply times. As always, the Customer Care team will be working to make sure everything goes smoothly for guests on the ground.
Key Takeaways:
- Japanese Manners
We have a new blog about etiquette and manners while travelling in Japan. We invite you to check it out as you might find some useful information to share with your clients.
- Nozomi Shinkansen reserved seat
From April 29 to May 6, all Nozomi bullet trains operating on the lines between Tokyo and Fukuoka will implement a reserved-seat only policy, in order to avoid crowding at the stations during Golden Week.
- Miyazu selected as ‘Green Destination Top 100’
Miyazu city, on the coast of northern Kyoto Prefecture, has been honoured for their efforts in supporting the local economy through sustainable tourism. This includes promoting the ancient art of wisteria weaving, an experience that we are proud to be a promoter of in our Kyoto by the Sea overnight packages.
- Second Harvest 2023 results
In 2023, EXO collaborated with the food charity Second Harvest by collecting used IC cards from guests at the end of the trip. Through this effort, over 890,000 JPY was raised to provide food for families living below the poverty line. Thank you to our guests and agents who helped make this possible!
Destination news
- Hotel Closure Announcement: Mitsui Garden Sanjo in Kyoto will permanently close from June 10 2024 onwards.
Hotel expansion in Hiroshima: Grancia Hiroshima, a property we are currently working with, has announced the opening of a new annex building in Spring 2025.
Private compartments coming soon to Tokaido Shinkansen train: Japan Railway recently announced that new, private compartment-type seats will be added to the Tokaido Shinkansen train (Tokyo to Fukuoka via Kyoto/Osaka) in 2026. The reclining seats will have leg rests and individual controls for the lighting, air conditioning and volume of the in-car announcements. We will update partners as more details are available.
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