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Singaporeans favour China, Japan, and Malaysia for 2026 travel

Singaporeans are gearing up for international travel in the first quarter of 2026, with China, Japan, and Malaysia emerging as the top destinations, according to Trip.com. The travel service provider's data reveals that these countries are the most popular choices for Singaporeans, driven by major festive celebrations such as Lunar New Year and Hari Raya Puasa. Theme parks like Shanghai Disney Resort, Universal Studios Japan, and Tokyo DisneySEA are particularly favoured. Trip.com's General Manager Edmund Ong noted, "The first quarter of 2026 brings major festive celebrations. Boosted by the multiple family-centric holidays and favourable exchange rates, China, Japan, and Malaysia have emerged as the top destinations for Singaporean travellers." Mid-haul journeys preferred Mid-haul flights, covering distances between 2,000 km and 5,000 km, account for 50 percent of all bookings, highlighting a preference for destinations like Tokyo, Taipei, and Seoul. On the other hand, short-haul flights make up 32 percent of bookings, whilst long-haul flights constitute 18 percent. Bangkok, Tokyo, and Kuala Lumpur are the top international cities for Singaporean travellers. Meanwhile, theme parks remain a significant draw, with four out of five top attractions booked being major theme parks across the Asia Pacific region. Trip.com continues to expand its offerings, now providing over 300,000 bookable activities and experiences worldwide. Recent partnerships with Live Nation and DreamUs aim to enhance concert travel and attraction offerings, reinforcing Trip.com's position as a leading travel platform. ```

Discover Tokyo’s Magical Winter Illuminations: Why Japan is Australia’s Fastest Growing Year-Round Travel Destination

Japan has rapidly grown as a top travel destination for Australians, becoming a beloved choice year-round, especially for its unique seasonal experiences. Despite the distance and the extra planning involved compared to quick getaways like Bali, Japan offers a profound cultural and sensory journey that captivates Australian travellers. Its dynamic cities, culinary delights, and rich heritage continue to draw millions of visitors annually from Australia, with the number surpassing one million per year recently, showcasing its soaring popularity and strong travel ties between the two countries. Winter is a magical time in Tokyo when the city transforms into a sparkling wonderland through spectacular illuminations. As temperatures drop, iconic districts such as Roppongi, Ginza, Omotesando, Ebisu, and Nakameguro come alive with dazzling light displays that bring warmth and joy to chilly nights. Key illumination sites like Tokyo Midtown, Marunouchi, Tokyo SkyTree Town, Tokyo Dome City, and Tokyo Tower feature hundreds of thousands to millions of LED lights arranged in festive, artistic designs that mesmerize visitors. Additionally, Yomiuriland theme park’s annual Jewellumination show offers jewel-colored lights unique to the venue, enhancing Tokyo’s winter charm. This year, Tokyo’s winter illuminations have been scaled up significantly, with Tokyo Dome City alone boasting over 1,000,000 lights, setting a festive scene complete with original themed light shows, Christmas markets, and even ice skating rinks with real ice. Marunouchi’s street lights extend from the station to the Imperial Palace’s gardens, all powered by renewable energy sources, creating stunning champagne-gold shimmers throughout the city. Visitors can enjoy the dynamic interplay of light, music, and festive decorations that turn Tokyo’s winter nights into an enchanting experience that appeals to locals and international visitors alike. For Australian travellers, Tokyo’s winter illuminations are a splendid highlight complementing Japan’s wider appeal—from vibrant urban life to serene hot springs and world-class winter sports. Japan’s growth in popularity among Australians reflects its unique ability to offer memorable travel moments in every season, making it a destination that continues to inspire and delight throughout the year.

Tourism Authority of Thailand lauds new direct flights from Bangkok to three Japanese destinations

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hailed the recent launch of three inaugural Japan–Bangkok services operated by Thai AirAsia X and Thai Lion Air as a milestone in regional connectivity. The new routes from Sendai, Hokkaido and Osaka significantly expand short-haul access into Thailand and are expected to stimulate year-end travel demand from one of the country’s most valuable international markets. TAT deputy governor for international marketing in Asia and the South Pacific Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai declared: “These new connections from Sendai, Hokkaido and Osaka reflect the strong confidence of our airline partners in Thailand’s tourism prospects. Expanded air access is essential to sustaining travel flows from Japan, and TAT will continue working with carriers to support sustainable growth. With rising interest among younger Japanese travellers, Thailand is well placed to deliver high-quality experiences that resonate with today’s evolving travel preferences.” Significant new routes Thai AirAsia X commenced its four-times-weekly Sendai–Bangkok service on Monday, 1st December. The inaugural flight also carried more than 100 youth football players from the Tohoku region who travelled to Bangkok for matches and training. Their arrival coincided with TAT’s launch of the Enjoy Training in Thailand initiative, which promotes Thailand as a warm-weather, year-round training destination for youth athletes and coaches from Japan. The programme includes planned joint promotions with partner sports clubs to bring recurring training camps to Thailand and elevate the country’s profile as a world-class sports training base. Thai Lion Air, on the other hand, also launched its three-time-weekly Hokkaido–Bangkok service on 1st December. The airline likewise launched its four-times-weekly Osaka–Bangkok service on the following day, 2nd December, further strengthening connectivity between Japan’s major cities and Thailand. Inroads to a key market Japan is a leading source of inbound tourism for Thailand, generating strong, stable revenue and maintaining consistent travel throughout the year. TAT is advancing a dual-track approach to the market by preserving established segments while expanding influence among new audiences, particularly Millennial and Gen Z travellers who are visiting Thailand for the first time. Strengthened airline partnerships and greater seat capacity are central to this strategy, supporting Thailand’s position as a preferred destination for Japanese visitors. From 1st January to 30th November of this year, Thailand recorded 985,612 Japanese visitors, a year-on-year increase of 4.16 per cent. Most travellers arrive as FIT visitors with an average spend of 39,000 Baht per trip and an average stay of 6.04 days. Popular destinations include Bangkok, Chon Buri, Phuket, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai. Growing demand provides strong momentum as Thailand advances toward its target of welcoming more than one million Japanese arrivals by the end of 2025.

Winter in Japan Sees 15% Rise in Indian Travellers: Cox & Kings Report

Takayama Japan, winter landscape foliage at red Nakabashi bridge and Miyakawa river. For years, Japan has been defined internationally by its iconic cherry blossom season. But a new behaviour shift is emerging among Indian travellers. According to Cox & Kings Japan has now become a top winter bucket-list destination with demand rising 15% for December–February departures compared to last year. Cox & Kings’ traveller insights point to several defining shifts behind the winter surge.Winter illumination season is becoming a major travel driver. From Tokyo Midtown’s Illumination Walk to the famous Nabana no Sato light gardens, Japan's winter lighting festivals,among the world’s most elaborate, are now trending across Indian couples, families and young travellers. These attraction-based evenings are becoming a high-FOMO seasonal experience. Indian travellers are also leaning into Japan’s deep winter culture. Snow-led experiences like skiing, snow villages, wildlife trails, snowy hikes and open-air onsens(hot springs) are rising fast. The magic is in the contrast: steaming baths against snowy forests, winter street-food stalls, and quiet, white-covered lanes. It’s a season where snow, culture and comfort come together “Japan in winter has a completely different soul,” said Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings. “From local food trails to cultural rituals and unhurried neighbourhood days, travellers want depth and winter is when Japan reveals its most authentic side. Already among the top choices for 2025, Japan’s growing winter appeal now makes it a truly all-season destination” Travellers are also increasingly exploring culture beyond sakura (spring cherry bloom). Tea ceremonies in Kyoto, winter food tours in Osaka, kimono dressing workshops, traditional ryokan stays, and “onsen circuits”aka hot spring baths in Hakone are seeing strong traction. Interest in slow-travel experiences such as neighbourhood stays in Kyoto’s Gion district, curated cooking workshops and local craft has also grown over the last year. Data from Cox and Kings shows, advance bookings for next year’s cherry blossom itineraries are already up by 10%, showing that winter demand is not replacing the cherry blossom season, it is expanding the overall Japan travel curve. As 2026 approaches, Japan continues to dominate Indian bucket lists both for its cherry blossom and a richly layered winter destination.

Costa Serena’s 2026 Asia Cruises: Authentic Japan, Korea, China and a 66-Day World Voyage

Costa Cruises is expanding its Asian program in 2026 with two brand-new 11-day itineraries on Costa Serena, designed to showcase both iconic cities and lesser-known ports across Japan, South Korea, and China. These routes complement the ship’s wider 2026 deployment in Asia, reinforcing Costa’s position as a key player in the region. Fresh from a major refit, Costa Serena now features revamped pools and outdoor lounges, renewed cabins and suites, and a contemporary look that turns the ship into a floating stage for discovery and relaxation. Guests also benefit from expanded dining options in a new food court, plus added spaces dedicated to wellness and entertainment. Itinerary One: Summer Across Korea, Japan and China Departing 1 June 2026, the first 11-day cruise connects three emblematic Far Eastern countries: South Korea, Japan, and China. The journey begins near Seoul (Incheon) before continuing to Busan, a coastal city where seaside temples and bustling fish markets reveal everyday Korean life. From there, the ship explores southern Japan with calls to Sasebo, Yatsushiro, Kagoshima, and Nagasaki, blending green landscapes, artisan traditions, volcanic scenery, and layered history. The voyage culminates with an overnight stay in Shanghai, offering time to experience both its futuristic skyline and historic quarters along the waterfront. Itinerary Two: Autumn Immersion in Japan The second 11-day itinerary, departing 7 October 2026 from Tokyo (Yokohama), is crafted as a deep dive into Japan from south to north at the height of the autumn foliage season. After sailing from Tokyo’s vibrant harbour, Costa Serena heads to Kobe for an overnight stay, giving guests more time to explore this chic port city at the foot of the Rokko Mountains. The cruise then visits Kochi, Kagoshima, and Nagasaki, combining markets, onsen culture, coastal scenery, and powerful historic sites before a call in Busan adds a Korean touch. The itinerary continues to Kanazawa—often called the “Kyoto of the Sea of Japan”—before concluding in Hakodate, Hokkaido, known for its night views and nostalgic atmosphere. More ways to explore Asia in 2026 Beyond the new 11-day routes, Costa Serena will operate in Asia throughout 2026 with two alternating 14-day itineraries: one linking Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea, and another visiting Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines. Travellers seeking a longer escape can combine them into a single 28-day voyage for a more extensive exploration of the region. These cruises are made more accessible with “fly & cruise” packages from major European gateways, simplifying long-haul logistics for guests heading to Asia. This combination of curated itineraries and easy access positions Costa Serena as a compelling option for travellers wanting to experience Asia in comfort and style. An epic 66-day World Cruise In October 2026, Costa Serena will also headline a 66-day World Cruise departing from Tokyo on 18 October. This grand itinerary crosses Asia, Oceania, and South America, calling at 15 countries, 26 destinations, and 14 islands before ending in Buenos Aires. The World Cruise blends major metropolises with remote islands and dramatic natural landscapes, appealing to travellers who dream of circling the globe without sacrificing comfort. It also builds on Costa’s broader 2026 program in Asia, offering guests the chance to combine regional exploration with a once-in-a-lifetime long voyage. Costa Serena as a floating hotel To round off its remarkable Asian season, Costa Serena will serve for the first time as an official floating hotel for a major international sporting event in Japan in autumn 2026. While moored in Nagoya, the ship will host athletes and delegations from across the continent, showcasing its hospitality credentials beyond traditional cruising. This role underlines the ship’s versatility and the appeal of its newly refreshed spaces, from cabins and lounges to dining venues and relaxation areas. It also reinforces Costa’s long-term commitment to Asia, both as a cruise destination and as a stage for global events.

Overtourism and congestion, yet Japanese Welcoming tourists

This chart shows Japanese respondents' views in a survey on overtourism in the country (2025). Last year, almost 37 million international tourists visited Japan, up from 25 million in 2023 and compared to 32 million in 2019 before Covid-19 hit. Foreigners visiting Japan spent an a whopping 8 trillion Yen in the country in 2024, up from just around 5 trillion in 2023 as well as before the Covid-19 pandemic. As informed by a news report in Statista. Pictures of crowded landmarks and stories of traditional sites being disturbed in the country have made the rounds online in recent years. At the same time, Japan is being associated more and more with overtourism. A survey by local media outlet Asahi Shimbun shows that Japanese people are in fact worried about these developments, all while keeping a friendly and welcoming demeanor towards tourists that the country is so well-known for. According to the responses, more than three quarters of Japanese surveyed by telephone in early 2025 said that overtourism was a big or at least somewhat of a problem. Only 4 percent said it was no problem at all. On the other hand, 30 percent of international tourists to Japan recently indicated they had experienced overtourism during their time in the country, like congestion. Despite this, 68 percent still said the new tourism record in Japan was a good thing, with younger people and Greater Tokyo residents agreeing most. While some forecasts say that 2025 tourism numbers will reach 40 million this year, the Japanese government want to welcome 60 million tourists by 2030. Japan also recently topped a list of countries tourists wanted to revisit,

Tourist Spending in Japan Hits Record ¥8 Trillion in 2024

This chart shows the annual inbound travel spending by foreign visitors to Japan and per-capita spending. Japan’s inbound travel spending from foreign tourists broke an all-time record in 2024, having fully rebounded from the Covid-19 pandemic travel slump with an impressive 8.1 trillion yen. As informed by a news report in Statista. The 2024 figure marks an increase of 68.8 percent from the 2019, pre-pandemic annual spending of 4.8 trillion yen, even with the weakened yen. Last year, the average spending per traveller also saw an increase. Where per-capita spending for foreign tourists in Japan had been 213,000 yen in 2023, it rose to 227,000 yen in 2024. Looking at the spending patterns of inbound travellers by categories in 2019 and 2024, a greater share of spending went into accommodation in the latter year (29.4 percent in 2019; 33.6 percent in 2024), while a smaller share was spent on shopping (34.7 percent in 2019; 29.5 percent in 2024). The countries from which visitor spending was highest were China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) with 21.2 percent, Taiwan with 13.4 percent, South Korea at 11.8 percent and the United States at 11.1 percent. In 2019, China had accounted for by far the biggest share at 36.8 percent, followed by Taiwan at 11.5 percent and South Korea at 8.8 percent.

Cebu Pacific brings a touch of Filipino culture to its Japanese roadshow

Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific brought the warmth and joy of Filipino culture to Japan through a two-day pop-up event at Shibuya 109 on the 8th and 9th November. The activation is part of the airline’s inbound tourism campaign Fly to Your Happy Philippines, which aims to inspire more Japanese travelers to discover the Philippines’ world-renowned islands and attractions. Visitors enjoyed a simulated CEB flight experience, explored virtual getaways to Cebu, Boracay, Bohol, and Palawan, and took their chances in a raffle which offered free round-trip tickets to the Philippines as the grand prize. Ramping up promotions in a vital market According to airline president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao, Japan is a key market for Cebu Pacific and he sees strong growth in travel between it and the Philippines. Lao said: “Through this campaign, we hope to encourage more Japanese travellers to visit the Philippines and experience its diverse destinations, while making their journey affordable and enjoyable with Cebu Pacific.” Currently, Cebu Pacific operates direct flights from Fukuoka, Nagoya, Osaka (Kansai), Sapporo, and Tokyo (Narita) to Cebu, Clark, and Manila, making it the largest Philippine carrier serving Japan. The airline will further increase flight frequencies to select Japan destinations in the fourth quarter of 2025 to meet growing demand among travellers.

Japan Creative Centre and Pilot Pen Singapore present NAMIKI: Past, Present, Future

Japan Creative Centre and Pilot Pen Singapore have teamed up this month to present The Timeless Craftsmanship of Maki-e - NAMIKI: Past, Present, Future. This stunning cultural showcase invites visitors to experience the timeless artistry and rich legacy of NAMIKI. Running for only a week from 15th to 22nd November, the Japan Creative Centre will transform into a sanctuary of craftsmanship, offering a rare glimpse into the exquisite world of NAMIKI’s Maki-e fountain pens and the art of traditional Japanese lacquer art. At the exhibition, visitors will journey through time and explore NAMIKI’s rich legacy, from the pioneering days of founder Ryosuke Namiki to the celebrated works of the Kokkokai, through a breathtaking display of a rare and expansive collection of Limited-Edition NAMIKI Maki-e fountain pens tracing the brand’s storied history. Japan Creative Centre director Akiko Kawabe said of the upcoming exhibition: "This collaboration is a celebration of Japanese craftsmanship at its finest. As a cultural bridge between Japan and Singapore, JCC is dedicated to promoting the depth and diversity of Japanese culture through the arts, innovation, and tradition. This showcase with NAMIKI perfectly embodies that mission - offering audiences a rare opportunity to engage with the exquisite art of Maki-e, not just as a historic craft, but as a living expression of Japan’s enduring creativity and refinement.” Pilot Pen Singapore managing director Ryu Taisuke added: "At NAMIKI, every pen is more than a writing instrument: it is a vessel of imagination, a canvas where tradition meets innovation through the timeless art of Maki-e. Through this showcase, we are honoured to bring the spirit of Japanese artistry to Singapore, a place where creativity and culture are deeply valued. It is both a tribute to our heritage and a step forward in our mission to preserve, share, and reimagine this exquisite art form for future generations across the world.” A masterpiece comes to Singapore On opening day, visitors to the exhibition will have the rare opportunity to meet NAMIKI artisan Chida Seiki whose hand has guided many of the brand’s most iconic creations, including ‘Dancing Beauty’ (2003), ‘Hyoutan Namazu’ (2008), ‘Polar Bear’ (2009), and ‘Coral’ (2021). Guests may also set appointments in which to consult with the Pilot Pen Doctor for expert care on their treasured collections. Visitors will also be able to view the 2025 Limited-Edition NAMIKI Fountain Pen, 百花繚乱 Blooming Flowers in Profusion, an exemplary item that is the pinnacle of Japanese artistry and craftsmanship, with Singapore honoured as the first country to showcase it. Created by renowned Kokkokai artisan Yutaka Sato, this exquisite masterpiece draws inspiration from the idiom Hyakkaryouran, symbolising the harmonious flourishing of diverse talents and ideas, much like flowers in bloom. More than a writing instrument, it stands as a poetic tribute to nature’s transience, Japan’s cultural heritage, and NAMIKI’s enduring legacy of transforming craftsmanship into art. Understanding time-honoured traditions Alongside this remarkable collection of luxury fountain pens, guests will also gain a deeper understanding of the art of Maki-e: its origins in traditional Japanese lacquerware, the meticulous layering of lacquer and gold powder, and the delicate, time-intensive techniques passed down through generations of artisans. Through displays and detailed showcases of the brushes, powders, and materials used in this centuries-old craft, visitors will witness the intricate processes that transform each pen into a radiant work of art. The exhibition offers not only a visual feast of NAMIKI’s finest creations but also an intimate glimpse into the artistry, patience, and devotion that define the spirit of Maki-e.

Hospitality brand FUFU JAPAN to open its first Tokyo property in Ginza

Kato Pleasure Group announced a ninth location for its Michelin-recognised brand FUFU JAPAN. The ninth property for the brand, FUFU Tokyo Ginza, also marks its initial foray into the Japanese capital. Located at the iconic Ginza 1-chome intersection, FUFU Tokyo Ginza offers a one-of-a-kind stay, with each of the 34 guest rooms featuring a private garden and natural hot spring baths, making it a rare sanctuary in the centre of Tokyo. Guests can also enjoy curated experiences in and around Ginza, from hands-on traditional crafts to private cruises, alongside sumo training visits and helicopter tours. Inside the property, thoughtfully designed spaces and seasonal Japanese cuisine further enrich the experience. An excellent addition to an award-winning line FUFU Tokyo Ginza is the latest addition to FUFU JAPAN's collection of small luxury resorts with locations in Atami, Kawaguchiko, Karuizawa, Kyoto, Hakone, Nara, and Nikko. Founded in 2007, each property embodies a refined retreat where traditional Japanese aesthetics meet contemporary sophistication, guided by the concept of being a place to savour time. Seven of its properties have been honoured with Michelin Key distinctions for two consecutive years, which is the highest number among Japanese hotel brands. Urban debut With the debut of FUFU Tokyo Ginza, the brand opens its first property in a major city. In a district where history, refinement, and the harmony of Japanese tradition and modern sensibility thrive, FUFU aims to create a place within the city where time gently slows. As the flagship among all FUFU properties opened to date, FUFU Tokyo Ginza embodies the spirit of the FUFU brand for guests from Japan and abroad, marking a milestone that reflects the brand's nationwide growth.

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3rd Hospitality Japan Conference #HJC2024

3rd Hospitality Japan Conference #HJC2024 is scheduled for October 8-9 at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, stands as a pivotal part of Hospitality Asia Media's expansive Hospitality Asia Event Series, spanning across the Asia Pacific region. This comprehensive conference encompasses three pivotal summits: Hotel Investment Summit Japan #HISJ, Hotel Design Summit Japan #HDSJ, and Hotel Revenue Summit Japan #HRSJ, each tailored to address key facets of the hospitality industry in Japan.

2nd Hospitality Japan Conference – ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka

Hospitality Asia Event Series is most influential conference brand which attracts industry contributors in Tourism and Hospitality Communities in Asia.

Webinar – PONANT Destination Focus : Discover small ship cruising in Japan and surrounding tropical islands

Become an expert in small-ship cruising and Expeditions! Join Julie Rogers, PONANT National Business Development Manager South East Asia for an Exclusive Series of PONANT Webinars (30 minutes each), and become an expert in small luxury cruises and expeditions.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2026

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

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