Cherry blossom season has officially begun in Tokyo, marking the start of one of Japan’s busiest travel periods. As sakura gradually bloom northward across the country, our team is fully engaged managing peak-season operations and ensuring smooth experiences for travellers currently exploring Japan.
March also represents the final month of the Japanese fiscal year, a period traditionally associated with administrative updates and policy adjustments. Several changes announced in the previous monthly product update are now coming into effect, including revisions to accommodation taxes in selected destinations and entrance fee increases at major attractions. These adjustments reflect ongoing efforts by local authorities to manage tourism growth while maintaining the quality and sustainability of visitor experiences.
Despite the intense pace of the season, spring continues to showcase Japan at its most iconic, reinforcing the importance of careful planning and flexibility when travelling during peak periods.
Destination news
- Trail Closure at Torii Pass (Nakasendo trail)
Due to repair works related to structural ageing, the pedestrian bridge on the Narai-juku side of Torii Pass along the historic Nakasendo Trail is fully closed until April 25. Travellers walking between Narai and Yabuhara should note that a detour is in place between Minenochaya and Narai Station. While signage along the pass is limited, the alternative route is relatively straightforward and follows a pleasant scenic road, allowing hikers to continue enjoying the historic atmosphere of the region with minor adjustments. We will be including some extra information in welcome packs for our guests who plan to hike the tori pass to find the detour route.
- New Luxury Train to Koyasan: “Gran Tenku”
A new luxury sightseeing train, Gran Tenku, has been introduced on the Nankai Railway line connecting Osaka with the sacred mountain of Koyasan. Designed to elevate the journey itself into a travel experience, the train features panoramic windows, refined interiors inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics and comfortable seating aimed at leisure travelers seeking a scenic approach to this spiritual destination. The service enhances access to Mount Koya while aligning with the growing demand for experiential rail travel in Japan.
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