Japan’s total inbound travel consumption reached JPY 2,140.2 billion, 73.7 pc rise from 2023 (Photo: JNTO)
Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) in Delhi has reported a sharp increase in travel spending by Indian tourists, reflecting the growing appeal of Japan as a destination.
According to the press statement by JNTO, Indian travellers spent JPY 19.2 billion (about USD 126 million) in the three month period between April and June 2024, marking a remarkable 120.7 pc increase compared to the same quarter of 2019 and a 63.1 pc rise more than Q2, 2023.
JNTO says that overall, Japan’s total inbound travel consumption during this period reached JPY 2,140.2 billion, a significant 73.7 pc rise from 2023.
It adds that Indian tourists, in particular, allocated the majority or 44.3 pc of their budget to accommodation, followed by 18.6 pc for food and beverages, 17.5 pc for shopping, 15.6 pc for transportation and 3.7 for pc leisure.
Indian visitors outpace global spending trends
JNTO says that Indian tourists also spent an average of JPY 266,186 per visitor, 11.3 pc higher than the global average of JPY 239,028. Those visiting Japan for leisure outspent other global visitors by 25.8 pc, with an average expenditure of JPY 299,950.
The statement adds that a total of 71,923 Indians visited Japan during the April-June 2024 period, a 36.7 pc increase from 2019, with May seeing the highest influx of 29,100 Indian visitors.
Ryo Bunno
“The increase in spending by visitors from India is a testament to the country’s prosperity and growing affluence. We are optimistic that this trend will contribute to the continued growth and development of the tourism sectors in both India and Japan. Notably, accommodation constitutes a significant portion of travel spending by Indian visitors,” says Ryo Bunno, Executive Director, JNTO Delhi Office.
JNTO says that to further attract Indian visitors, it held the Japan Travel Fair in New Delhi and plans a three-city roadshow for Indian travel agents. These initiatives aim to offer customised travel packages, including vegetarian and family-friendly options, tailored to the needs of Indian tourists.
“Japan boasts numerous world-class hotel brands that offer exceptional service and are ideally located for both leisure and business travellers. We sincerely hope that more Indian tourists will choose to experience Japan’s outstanding hospitality and services. India remains one of the most promising markets for inbound tourism to Japan. These numbers demonstrate the increasing appeal of Japan to Indian travellers, for leisure including its rich cultural, food, and shopping experiences,” Bunno adds.
The statement adds that Japan’s cultural, shopping, and culinary experiences continue to captivate Indian travellers, contributing to this strong upward trend in inbound tourism.