Japanese media reported that the number of small earthquakes occurring since late last month in the Tokara Islands, Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, has exceeded 1,000 as of the 3rd. The photo shows Akusekijima, an island in the Tokara Islands. Photo by Yonhap News
원본보기 아이콘Japan Loses Popularity
More than 1,300 earthquakes have occurred recently in the Tokara Islands, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
On top of that, rumors of a "July mega-quake" are spreading, heightening anxiety among travelers.
"It's our first overseas trip with our two-year-old, but just in case, we changed our plans to a hotel staycation in Seoul." - Office worker Kim Hyungwoo (39).
According to travel agencies, demand for Japan travel packages from Hana Tour has decreased by 12% compared to last year.
At Kyowon Tour, the proportion of Japan bookings has dropped from 16.6% to 8.6%.
The strong yen has increased the perceived cost of living during trips to Japan, making it less attractive as a travel destination. Pixabay
원본보기 아이콘It's not just because of the earthquakes.
Economic recession, rising exchange rates, and higher prices have all increased the burden of travel costs.
The strong yen has also raised the perceived cost of travel in Japan.
Thanks to China's visa-free policy, demand is shifting to alternative destinations (demand for China packages has increased by 26%).
Will Domestic Travel Benefit?
From hotel staycations to trips to regional areas, demand for domestic travel is on the rise.
Government and local authorities' travel support policies, such as the "Accommodation Sale Festa," are also contributing.
"People are turning their attention to safe and affordable domestic travel," said an industry insider.
Which Overseas Destinations Are Rising Instead of Japan?
Mongolia is booming in popularity! It ranks first in bookings for late July and early August (18.3%).
A cool climate and the expansion of low-cost carriers have improved accessibility.
Bookings for China are also on the rise thanks to the visa-free policy.
What About Europe?
Despite the heatwave, demand remains strong.
"European weather is an annual thing," with summer vacation and Chuseok flight bookings still active.
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Reporter gooeunmo@asiae.co.kr
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Edit Kim Inwook kiminuki@asiae.co.kr
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