Japan welcomed just 56,700 visitors in November, down 97.7% year-on-year and representing the 14th consecutive month of declines, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).
With continuing COVID-19 pandemic measures such as strict quarantine requirements and visa nullification, plus limitations on international travel imposed by other nations, most of the 22 cities that are part of the “Visit Japan” campaign are experiencing year-on-year visitation declines of over 99%.
However, programs such as “business track” and “residence track” between Japan and certain countries have begun. A limited number of entries from all regions and countries have been allowed since 1 October while China, Vietnam and South Korea are among the nations to have shown an increase in visitation since 1 November based on Japan’s assessment of their COVID levels.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the demand for tourism in the world to remain stagnant,” the JNTO said. “Japan has eased restrictions for countries in the region, which means we need to keep a close eye on infection rates and market trends going forward.”
By country, most visitors in November came from China with 18,100, followed by Vietnam with 14,700 and Indonesia with 3,400.