Sakura season is a magical time in Japan, but we cannot deny that it draws crowds that are increasing in number every year. The first two months of 2024 have set records over 2019, but our staff is ready to provide exceptional support to the clients on the ground during the coming peak season. For a less crowded Sakura experience, consider these alternative routes shared in our recent blog.
Our team keeps growing! We have welcomed a new Director of People and Culture as well as several new staff members. Later this month, we will celebrate the Sakura season with the traditional hanami party, a picnic under the cherry trees. It will be a great occasion to refresh our minds and have fun chatting together. Read more about our growing team here, in this blog article.
Our Senior Inbound Leader, Barbara,recently attended ITB Berlin and had the opportunity to meet several of our partners. They stressed to us that interest in Japan as a destination is remains high with many repeat travellers looking for lesser-known and off the beaten path destinations. We are happy to hear this, since it aligns with our efforts to develop more products in remote areas like Hokkaido, Tohoku and Kyushu.
Key Takeaways:
- Hokuriku Shinkansen extension opens 16 March
The Shinkansen extension from Kanazawa to Tsuruga, in Fukui prefecture is now open for passengers. The ride between Kansai and Kanazawa is now a bit faster, and we are working to increase the activities available in Kanazawa, a city that we suggest spending at least two nights in.
- EXO Japan supporting local communities
To help support the local economy of Noto Peninsula, EXO Japan has selected Wajima chopsticks as a gift to include in welcome packs for some of our clients (as per agreement). Wajima-nuri lacquerware is a traditional technique of Wajima, in Noto Peninsula, where many artisans and communities suffered heavy damage from the 1 January earthquake.
- Seasonal Opening Announcements:
– Tateyama Kurobe: This route through the Northern Japanese Alps will be open from 15 April to 31 May and again from 1 to 25 June.
– Kamikochi: The Kamikochi region of the Japanese Alps will be open from 27 April to 15 November.
– Mount Fuji: The exact dates for the climbing season of Mount Fuji have not been announced yet, but some new policies are in place. This includes a limited number of hikers from the Yoshida Trail (4,000) as well as an entrance fee of 2,000 yen and a closing time for access between 4 PM and 3AM.
- Geisha streets closure in Kyoto:
Despite foreign media news about possible closures of the streets in the Kyoto geisha district of Gion, we want to clarify that the closing will presumably apply to the narrow private alleys and not to the main streets like Hanamikoji. Our tours will not be affected.
- Japan etiquette tips:
EXO has put together a helpful ‘Tips for Travellers’ guide to help guests navigate Japan’s unique system of etiquette and cultural norms. We recommend sharing to travellers in advance of their journey so that they can learn useful tips about how to be a respectful and responsible visitor!
Destination news
- Osaka Castle price increases – Osaka Castle has announced a rise in the price of the entrance fee from April 2025, in connection with the Osaka EXPO 2025. The price will double, becoming 1,200 JPY
- New local/entrance tax: The city of Osaka is also considering collecting a fixed fee from tourist coming to Osaka starting in April 2025. Also, Koyasan announced an entrance tax (similar to the one implemented in October for access to Miyajima Island) starting from April 2028. Additional detail will be announced soon.
- New hotel opening in Tokyo: Janu Tokyo, a new luxury property recently opened on 13 March.. Located in the Residence A Tower of the new complex Azabudai Hills, this high-end property features a modern design that resembles classic Japanese elements such as wood and paper.
- Limited time event: A Guinness World Record projection mapping show is being held every night from 26 February to 30 April on the exterior of the Tokyo Metropolitan Building. The show of lights happens every 30 minutes and is completely free. There are 5 different shows, each lasting 10-15 minutes, with different programs on weekdays and weekends.
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