Japan’s tourism industry has once again achieved a major milestone, with 3,497,600 foreign visitors arriving in March 2025, marking a 13.5% year-on-year increase. This figure not only surpasses the previous March record of 3,081,781 visitors in 2024, but also sets a new all-time high for the month.
A Historic Quarter for Inbound Tourism
With March’s figures included, the total number of inbound visitors from January to March 2025 has reached 10,537,300, making it the fastest pace ever recorded to surpass the 10 million mark within the year’s first quarter.
Driving Factors Behind the Growth
Several key factors contributed to this remarkable growth. The spring sakura (cherry blossom) season boosted travel demand across numerous markets, drawing visitors eager to experience Japan’s iconic seasonal beauty. Additionally, in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the increased demand for international travel around the end of Ramadan played a significant role in driving arrivals.
Record-Breaking Numbers Across Key Markets
March 2025 saw single-month record highs in six markets, including the United States and Canada. Additionally, 11 markets, including South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand, achieved their highest-ever visitor numbers for March.
Moreover, all priority markets recorded historic cumulative highs for the January–March period, underscoring Japan’s growing appeal as a top travel destination and reflecting the effectiveness of strategic promotional efforts.
Looking Ahead
As Japan enters the second quarter of the year with strong momentum, the tourism sector is poised for continued growth. With cherry blossom season in full swing, ongoing promotional campaigns, and an ever-increasing interest in Japanese culture and experiences, Japan remains firmly on track for another record-setting year in international tourism.