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J A P A N
Travel Trade News
February 2025 |
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Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025 |
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Spring in Japan is filled with dream-like scenery. From late March to early May, cherry blossoms enchant not only Kyoto but all of Japan with their subtle pink glow. Someiyoshino is the most common type of cherry blossom in Japan. The graceful weeping cherry blossoms are also stunning. Read more.
In addition to sakura, each season offers a variety of beautiful flowers such as plum blossoms in early spring and hydrangeas during the rainy season. For more information, click here.
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Experiential Travel in Japan's National Parks Webinar on 19 February |
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The Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan is thrilled to invite you to an exclusive free webinar tailored specifically for travel professionals seeking to uncover Japan’s National Parks as extraordinary destinations.
Date: Wednesday, 19th February
Time: 9:00 AM UK time
Why should you attend? This webinar offers:
-Exclusive insights into unique cultural and nature-based experiences.
-Marketable opportunities to enhance your portfolio with high-value, sustainable travel products.
-Compelling story ideas and angles for media coverage.
-A chance to connect with the Ministry of the Environment’s vision for transformative, eco-conscious tourism in Japan.
From hidden hot springs deep in Nikko’s mountains to the spiritual trails of Chichibu-Tama-Kai, discover eight new experiential travel programmes unlocking the natural and cultural wonders of Japan's National Parks. Looking forward to seeing you!
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Kyoto Travel Congestion Updates
Live stream from Kyoto |
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Kyoto City provides useful information for avoiding congestion by forecasting comfort levels around popular spots, real-time information from live cameras, and attractive sightseeing spots that are relatively empty even during the daytime.
Please enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto comfortably while skilfully avoiding crowded times and places.
This information is beneficial for those travelling to Kyoto independently. Please recommend it to your clients and include it in travel documents. Read more. |
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Niigata International Animation Film Festival |
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The Niigata International Animation Film Festival (NIAFF) will be held for the third time from 15 - 20 March 2025 in multiple locations across Niigata City. It is the world's first film festival centred around long-form animation and one of Asia's largest animation film festivals. The wide range of programs during the event will help visitors appreciate the deep and complex world of animation, including screenings of films by creators from around the globe and talks by directors, producers, critics, and more. For more details, please check the official website. |
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Welcome to JUNGLIA: Your Next Adventure in Okinawa |
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Get ready for JUNGLIA, a new nature-immersive theme park in the heart of Okinawa's Yambaru forest! Combining the natural beauty, JUNGLIA offers cutting-edge attractions, family-friendly entertainment, and delicious cuisine.Discover their “Power Vacance!!” concept. Escape city life, enjoy stunning scenery, and feel an unparalleled sense of freedom. Your adventure awaits in this World Natural Heritage Site of Yambaru. The site will be a transformation of an old golf course into a sustainable theme park while preserving Okinawa's environment. Expect a stress-free visit with intuitive apps and maps and efficient transportation access. JUNGLIA is committed to providing an unforgettable experience for all visitors while protecting the natural beauty of Okinawa. Junglia is due to open in July 2025. Read more. |
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Adachi Museum’s Gardens Ranked as Number One for the 22nd Consecutive Year
Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture |
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The Adachi Museum’s gardens have been ranked as number one in the “2024 Japanese Garden Ranking,” and this marks the 22nd consecutive year in the number one spot. The ranking includes nearly 1000 places throughout Japan, including historical sites, and was compiled by Sukiya Living Magazine: The Journal of Japanese Gardening, a US magazine that focuses on Japanese gardens.
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Find Your Tokyo Vibe: A New LGBTQ+ Travel Guide |
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The Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau has teamed up with OutThere magazine to create an insider’s guide to Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ scene. Discover the best bars and cafés in Shinjuku Ni-chōme, Tokyo’s iconic gay district, and catch Japan’s largest international drag show. The guide also covers cultural hotspots, dining recommendations, and key updates—like Tokyo Pride moving from April to June in 2025. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this guide is packed with tips to help you experience Tokyo’s inclusive and vibrant spirit. Read more. |
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First Year Anniversaries for The Sapporo and Shibuya Stream Hotels |
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The Sapporo Stream Hotel is located just a short walk from Odori Park, home to the iconic Snow Festival, whilst the Shibuya Streat Hotel sits in Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district, famous for its Hachiko statue and the iconic crossing. Both hotels celebrate the brand’s “Inspirational Local” philosophy, blending regional cuisines and locally commissioned art. Marking their first anniversaries this year, both hotels are highlighting some of the ways they help guests enjoy their unique local cultures. Read more.
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EXPO2025 | Creativity in Abundance, Hokuriku Shinetsu Tokai | JNTO
Expo 2025 is coming to Osaka 13 April - 13 October 2025 |
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Rich natural landscapes and awe-inspiring artworks coexist harmoniously in the regions of Hokuriku, Shinetsu, and Tokai. Here, the warmth of traditional crafts meets the innovation of contemporary art and is passed down to future generations. Embark on a journey that immerses you in the beauty of Japan’s most iconic traditional arts and crafts and let the artistic charm of Hokuriku, Shinetsu, and Tokai gently embrace your heart. The JNTO Expo website can be found here. |
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