October is one of the most dynamic months in Japan. The 2025 Osaka World Expo, which ran from April to October, has now concluded. The event was a major draw for the Kansai region and provided a global platform to showcase innovation and future concepts. Its successful run contributed significantly to the high visitor numbers seen in the Kansai area this year.
The comfortable, clear weather of mid-autumn makes it a perfect time to visit. While northern regions like Hokkaido and Tohoku are already enjoying the brilliant fall foliage, the central and western regions are preparing for their colour peaks in November.
Here at EXO, we match the high energy of the season. With a record number of clients currently on the ground, our focus is unwavering. Simultaneously, this is the crucial time of year when we look ahead: analysing market trends, finalising our 2026 pricing and developing strategic areas and new product concepts we want to focus on for the coming year. It’s a challenging but highly rewarding and exciting period of growth.
Destination News
Kyoto’s confirmed accommodation tax increase (effective March 2026)
Kyoto City has confirmed a significant increase in its accommodation tax, effective from March 2026. This measure is intended to help the city manage overtourism and invest in the infrastructure, cultural preservation and public services that make Kyoto so attractive. The new tiered tax structure is as follows:
- ¥10,000 per night: For rooms costing ¥100,000 or more.
- ¥4,000 per night: For rooms costing between ¥50,000 and ¥99,999.
- ¥1,000 per night: For rooms costing between ¥20,000 and ¥49,999.
- ¥400 per night: For rooms costing between ¥6,000 and ¥19,999.
- ¥200 per night: For rooms costing under ¥6,000.
These taxes are designed to reinvest in the very things that make the city attractive: cultural preservation, public transport, cleanliness and better visitor management.
Japan remains the top destination for repeat travellers
According to recent data, Japan is the number one country for international visitors returning to revisit. Within Asia, Tokyo ranked as the second most visited city for repeat travellers in the first half of 2025. This strong trend highlights Japan’s lasting appeal and the desire among experienced travellers to delve deeper into its varied regions and unique culture.
New hotel opening: Espacio Nagoya Castle
Adding to Japan’s growing luxury accommodation landscape, the Espacio Nagoya Castle just opened this month next to Nagoya Castle. This addition expands high-quality lodging options in the Chubu region, making it easier for travellers to explore central Japan with comfort and convenience.
New cultural landmark: teamLab Biovortex Kyoto
Kyoto has welcomed a stunning new permanent attraction this month with the opening of teamLab Biovortex Kyoto on 7th October. This is the art collective teamLab’s largest museum in Japan, spanning over 10,000 square meters near the Hachijo East Exit of Kyoto Station. The museum features over 50 immersive digital installations, including several works never before shown in Japan, offering a cutting-edge, interactive experience that complements Kyoto’s ancient beauty.
Permanent closure of Hiroshima Castle
The main keep (museum tower) of Hiroshima Castle is scheduled for permanent closure on 22 March 2026. The 1958 concrete reconstruction no longer meets modern earthquake safety standards. While the surrounding grounds and secondary compound will remain open, visitors planning to explore the museum exhibits inside the keep should be advised to do so before this date. The city is considering a future reconstruction using traditional wooden materials.
Ryokan stays spotlighted in Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2026” list
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 names spending a night in a ryokan among its top 25 global experiences, recognition that underscores demand for culturally rich, slow-travel moments in Japan. Build this into upcoming itineraries and share practical guidance with clients using our primer on choosing and booking ryokans via EXO’s Guide to Japan’s Ryokans.
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