Japan Breaks Tourism Record with 36.9 Million Visitors in 2024

A weaker yen and post-pandemic travel demand drove a surge in foreign arrivals, though concerns about overcrowding have emerged.

Japan welcomed 36.9 million foreign tourists in 2024, surpassing the previous record of 31.9 million set in 2019.
The weaker yen, which hit a multi-decade low, made Japan a more affordable destination, boosting visitor spending to 8.14 trillion yen ($51.78 billion).
The influx of tourists has led to overcrowding in popular areas like Kyoto, prompting measures such as increased lodging taxes and restricted access to certain streets.
Government efforts aim to distribute tourism more evenly across the country, as rural areas have seen a decline in visitors compared to urban centers.
Japan has set a goal of attracting 60 million foreign visitors annually by 2030, leveraging improved connectivity and promotional initiatives.