Asian travellers embrace solo journeys

Interest in solo travel is rising across Asia, digital travel platform Agoda reports. 

Agoda notes a 16% increase in solo accommodation searches compared to last year. 

This trend underscores a growing movement of travellers embracing the freedom and adventure of solo journeys, it says.

When planning their trips, solo travellers gravitate towards major cities in Asia. 

Tokyo (Japan) leads the pack, ahead of Bangkok (Thailand), Seoul (South Korea), Osaka (Japan), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) rounding out the top five destinations. 

These urban hubs offer a wide range of attractions, from cultural landmarks to world-class dining and lively entertainment, perfect for those looking to explore at their own pace. 

At the forefront of this trend are travellers from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, and Taiwan, who make up the top five solo travel groups in Asia, Agoda's data show. 

While Japanese travellers dominate in numbers, interest in solo travel has grown the fastest among Indonesians with a 72% increase in searches. 

Thai travellers follow close behind, with a 37% rise in solo travel interest. This growth highlights a transformative shift in how individuals across Asia are redefining their travel experiences and looking beyond traditional group trips.

"The rise in solo travel across Asia has become a defining trend in 2025 that reflects a growing desire for personal discovery and meaningful cultural immersion," says Jay Lee, regional director for North Asia at Agoda said. 

"Agoda is thrilled to support these journeys by offering a wide array of options tailored to solo travellers, ensuring they have everything they need to make their trips unforgettable."

See Agoda.com for more information.

Image: Terran Goodwin, Scop.io

Nagano offers a different slice of Japan

While popular Japanese destinations like Kyoto and Tokyo are trying to cut down on tourism numbers, others are lifting their promotional efforts to draw more visitors.

The lovely Nagano region is campaigning to draw more Australians off the beaten track to explore its traditional villages while taking in the mountain views.

A popular northern winter escape for Aussie skiers and snowboarders, Nagano is also showcasing other attractions that are a feature of the area all year round, including trekking and cycling .

The alpine region - about 250km north-west of Tokyo - wants to appeal to visitors interested in its traditions, culture and cuisine.

Visitors are being encouraged to look beyond the high-profile attractions which include Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle and the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where snow monkeys bathe in the springs.

“Unlike the bustling cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, we are looking at attracting travellers to experience a more authentic, less touristy side of Japan,” said Helen Wong, Australian representative of the Nagano Tourism Organization.

“We aim to unearth a side of Nagano that will appeal and surprise Australians looking for an escape from the typical tourist crowds and in search of a special experience.

“In doing so, we are focusing on the alpine area’s traditional villages and the spectacular rural settings that surround them.”

One such example is the Nakasendo, a 534km ancient trail that connects Kyoto with Tokyo. Built during the Edo Period (1603-1868), it was one of the longest but safest routes to travel along between the old and new capitals.

It was one of five major roads established at the time, but unlike others that have succumbed to modern development, much of the Nakasendo in the Nagano Prefecture has remained untouched.

Parts of the road that people travelled along hundreds of years ago, as well as the towns in which they stayed during the long journeys, can still be seen today.

“Magome, Tsumago and Narai are the most well-preserved and popular towns to visit,” said Wong.

“Visitors can walk among these ancient settlements and along the old roads that connected them, and you will experience a slice of Japan’s history that many of today’s guests miss."

Recent figures released by the Nagano Tourism Organisation show the Australian market at number two behind Japan’s neighbours Taiwan for time spent in Nagano.

For more details see https://www.go-nagano.net/en/

Kyoto imposes massive tourism tax on visitors

The Japanese city of Kyoto, struggling to deal with overwhelming crowds of tourists, this week unveiled plans for a whopping increased accommodation tax. 

Taxes will rise to up to 10,000 yen (about $100) per person, per night - starting from March 1, city officials announced.

The new rate, a tenfold jump from the current 1,000 yen/$10 maximum, is designed to fund infrastructure improvements and initiatives aimed at easing congestion across the city’s popular districts, news hub Travel Mole reported. .

Under the new tiered system, the 10,000-yen levy will apply to hotel stays costing 100,000 yen or more per night. Kyoto will then have the highest lodging tax in Japan, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications said.

City officials say the measure comes after years of frustration over constant tourist crowds; from packed city buses to throngs of visitors overwhelming historic sites and narrow streets.

In its application to the ministry earlier this year, Kyoto argued that “tourists must also share the cost of measures against overtourism.” The increase marks the first adjustment since the tax was introduced in 2018.

Students and teachers on school trips will remain exempt from the taxes.

Following the increase, Kyoto expects its annual lodging tax revenue to nearly double from 5.9 billion yen this fiscal year to 12.6 billion yen next year, based on city projections. 

The change comes amid a surge in luxury hotel development. Tokyo-based Imperial Hotel Ltd. is set to open Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, in March 2026 in the city’s Higashiyama Ward. 

The property will incorporate the façade of Yasaka Hall, a registered cultural property in Kyoto’s Gion district; regarded as the heart of geisha culture. Room rates are expected to start at 164,500 yen per night.

Images: Winsor Dobbin

Matcha chills out for spring

Matcha is the beverage that came from obscurity and swept to international popularity.

Matcha is a drink made from a finely ground powder of green tea leaves that originated in China but is mainly produced in Japan.

It is usually consumed in hot water, but iced matcha is also gaining fans.

Soul Origin is shaking up the drinks scene with iced matcha this spring with a new Iced Matcha lineup nationwide until November 5 at $7.90 for a small glass and $8.90 for a regular.

The seasonal collection pairs premium-grade matcha with creamy milk and fruit purées - and is designed for enjoying on warmer days.

Core flavours include blueberry matcha, strawberry matcha, white choc matcha, and mango matcha.

“Our matcha is made with premium-grade matcha and grown at high altitude above 600 metres in the mountainous regions of Central Japan," says national coffee manager Sam Taylor.

"Only the spring flush harvest and the very best of the autumn flush green tea is used.”

The fruit purées are described as "delivering bold flavour without overwhelming sweetness".

For more details see Soul Origin.   

Tokyo celebrates art across urban landscapes

Tokyo is one of the most fascinating destinations on the planet and if you are visiting over the next few months you can enjoy an international art festival running from October 17 to December 14. 

The Tokyo Biennale 2025 runs through what is is often celebrated as the “Autumn of Art” or “Autumn of Excursions” and invites visitors to discover the sprawling city's culture, history, and communities through art. 

Now in its third edition, the festival will feature works by 38 artist groups from seven countries, presented across 14 venues under the theme “Wander for Wonder.” 

Unlike traditional art festivals confined to galleries, the Tokyo Biennale is connected to the neighbourhoods where it takes place - and some of the exhibits are very quirky. 

Artists collaborate with local communities, creating site-specific works that reveal new perspectives on Tokyo's urban landscape.

The festival spans six areas in central-northeast Tokyo, including Ueno, Nihonbashi, Yaesu/Kyobashi, and Marunouchi. Each district offers a different way to engage with the city's culture and history. 

Most exhibitions are free to enter, while two main venues, the Toeizan Kan'ei-ji Temple and the Etoile Kaito Living Building, require payment for admission.

Projects are designed to be experienced on foot, so visitors can stroll through Tokyo's neighbourhoods, encountering artworks while uncovering hidden corners of the city. 

The festival encourages participants to “wander” through the layers of history, architecture, and daily life that define one of the world's most walkable capitals. Bring comfortable shoes. 

Full details, including participating artists and program updates, are available on the official Tokyo Biennale website LINK

For visitors looking to continue their artistic journey beyond the Biennale, Tokyo offers countless opportunities to explore galleries, museums, and cultural sites throughout the city. More information can be found on the official Go Tokyo website www.gotokyo.org

Small Luxury Hotels expands global portfolio

A boutique hotel in the vineyards of the Yarra Valley is among the new properties being showcased by the fast-expanding Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) group.

SLH, known for its global portfolio of boutique properties, has continued a growth spurt, announcing 49 additions to its portfolio in the first half of 2025.

This follows a record-breaking 2024, in which the brand saw 82 new signings.

They joined 620 hotels across 90+ countries and SLH's latest additions include destinations in Australia, Japan, Mexico and India.

Opening in December is December is the 33-room Levantine Hill Hotel, a suite-only hotel next to Levantine Hill Estate's cellar door and restaurant to allow guests to indulge in exceptional dining experiences. See https://www.levantinehill.com.au/pages/hotel

“2024 was a record year for SLH, and 2025 is shaping up to surpass it,” said Richard Hyde, SLH Chief Operating Officer.

“As the demand for genuine and intimate luxury stays continues to soar, we are in the right place at the right time. Our expanding and diverse portfolio of independent properties ensures there's something for every discerning, independently minded traveller.”

Openings in early 2025 included La Valise Mazunte in Mexico, located between Oaxaca's rugged cliffs and the Pacific Ocean.

July 2025 saw the opening of The James Suite Hotel Firenze 1564, a hidden retreat in the centre of Florence, housed in a 16th-century Renaissance palazzo built in 1564.

Maya Hotel Courchevel 1850, meanwhile, will open in the heart of French mountain resort Courchevel in December, with easy access to the ski slopes and nearby boutiques.

In Germany, the Wilmina Hotel marks SLH's arrival in Berlin located in a former courthouse and prison.

For more info visit www.SLH.com

Tourists continue to flock to Japan

Japan’s tourism boom is showing no signs of slowing down.

The country notched up 21.5 million arrivals in the first half of 2025, a 21% jump from last year and a record high for the period, the Japan National Tourism Organization announced this week.

Tourist spending in the first six months of the year also reached new heights - 4.8 trillion yen, a roughly 23% year-over-year increase.

South Korea represented the largest source of visitors with 4.78 million travellers, a 7.7% increase from last year, China registered a major increase - a 53.5% jump to 4.71 million visitors.

In addition, Japan saw double-digit percentage increases in visitors from Taiwan and the US, although numbers from Hong Kong dipped.

Japan set a new record with 36.8 million visitors last year, and the country has set its sights on attracting 60 million tourists annually by 2030.

Japan’s top tourism source markets:
1) South Korea: 4.78 million visitors, +7.7%
2) China, 4.71 million visitors, +53.5%
3) Taiwan, 3.28 million visitors, +10.3%
4) United States, 1.7 million visitors, +26.7%
5) Hong Kong, 1.27 million visitors, -0.4%

Image; Meghan Page, Scop.io 

Discover Japan’s roads less travelled - on foot

World Expeditions, which specialises in less-visited locations, has unveiled a new self-guided walking adventure along the remote and rugged Michinoku Coastal Trail in Japan.

This seven-day journey offers travellers an opportunity to explore Japan’s wild north-east - a part of the country still largely untouched by mass tourism. 

World Expeditions promises an experience where “the pace is slower, the landscapes raw, and the cultural encounters refreshingly unfiltered”.

The Michinoku Coastal Trail, stretching over 1,000 kilometres through the scenic Tohoku region, was developed as part of Japan’s reconstruction efforts following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. 

The trail now stands as a symbol of renewal and resilience. 

World Expeditions’ new itinerary cherry-picks the trail’s most spectacular sections, guiding travellers through coastal shrines, remote fishing villages, forested headlands and hidden bays between Hachinohe and the cliffs of Kitayamazaki.

Unlike Japan’s better-known walking routes, the Michinoku Trail remains largely untouched by over tourism. 

The self-guided trip is designed for experienced walkers who value both independence and support. 

Travellers receive clear daily route notes, reliable local assistance and luggage transfers, ensuring a seamless journey while maintaining the freedom to walk at their own pace. Accommodations are in locally run inns and small hotels, where regional hospitality and fresh seafood meals bring each day to a perfect close.

"This trail offers travellers the chance to connect deeply with nature and local traditions while enjoying the freedom of independent exploration,” says World Expeditions CEO Sue Badyari.

“Importantly, this initiative supports sustainable tourism by directing vital income to communities along the trail - many of which are still recovering from the 2011 tsunami.

“By choosing this walk, our travellers contribute directly to the revitalisation of these quiet coastal towns, helping preserve their heritage and support a resilient future for the people who call this remarkable region home."

View the Michinoku Coastal Trail itinerary

For more information on World Expeditions, visit www.worldexpeditions.com 

Japan to crack down on medical fee dodgers

If you have an outstanding medical bill in Japan you might be refused entry next time you try to get back into the country.

Japan plans to deny entry to foreign tourists who have not settled medical bills during previous visits to Japan.

A cabinet meeting last week drew up a new policy to crack down on unpaid medical fees for visiting tourists and also unpaid health care premiums for foreign workers and foreign exchange students.

Foreign tourists who outstanding medical fees will be denied entry, travel news hub Travel Mole reports.

The government also plans to reject visa extensions for foreigners working in Japan who have not paid national healthcare premiums.

There are no specific details on how the rules will be implemented.

“If our current systems are unable to address the realities of globalisation and fail to dispel public anxiety, then drastic reforms must be undertaken,” Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said.

“We will make sure to consider the rights of foreign nationals are ensured and provide necessary support so they won’t be isolated in our country.

“But we will take strict measures for those who don’t follow the rules.”

Companies that employ foreign workers and don’t pay the required social insurance premiums will also be penalised.

This includes tourism related businesses.

Foreign nationals who live and work in Japan at least three months are required to join the national health care program.

Foreign exchange students must also join the national healthcare program.

Image: PJ Endrinal, Scop.io

Mixed messages as Japan is about to become more expensive

Holidays in Japan are about to get a little more expensive for foreign tourists.

Japan is expected to introduce a dual pricing policy for entry at major tourist attractions from this northern hemisphere summer, news portal Travel Mole reports.

The two-tier system will charge higher prices for foreigners as the country aims to combat over-tourism issues. That said, it sound like a price gouge.

Authorities say higher prices for foreigners will help ease pressure on overcrowded sites and fund tourism infrastructure improvements.

No price differentials have been disclosed yet in detail, except for citing one example: Junguria Okinawa, a nature-themed park which is opening in July.

Foreign tourists will be charged 8,800 yen, while locals will pay only 6,930 yen.

Japan has set a long-term target of attracting 60 million foreign tourists each year by 2030. 

But imposing extra charges on them is unlikely to help increase numbers.

Expo 2025 to showcase the future

There are fewer than 50 days before Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, kicks off.

The global event that will showcase innovation and culture from around the world from April 13 to October 13.

Expo will run for 184 days and is being organized under the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."

Expo 2025 aims to inspire international collaboration and address global challenges through its three sub-themes: "Saving Lives," "Empowering Lives," and "Connecting Lives."

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) hopes the event will encourage visitors to explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Japan through its "Expo + Tourism" initiative.

A total of 158 countries and regions along with nine international organisations have confirmed their participation.

You can explore your country's pavilion and discover the latest updates here: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/

The Expo will feature a diverse line-up of national celebrations and cultural events.

Visit the JNTO website for the latest updates on Expo 2025 and travel destinations across Japan:
https://www.japan.travel/en/expo2025

A fusion of flavours is a Sydney feast for the senses

Nikkei cuisine is a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavours.

It is served in an elevated form at Callao, one of the standout restaurants in the Streets of Barangaroo gourmet precinct on the Sydney waterfront.

Opened just over a year ago, the flavours on offer at the 104-seat eatery have clearly hit the target.

There is a hip young crowd on hand: both the customers and the very efficient servers.

And the quality of the food, with the two distinctive cuisines delivering intriguing combinations, is matched by a drinks list peppered with cocktails, Japanese whiskies, and some astutely chosen wines (think names like O’Leary Walker, Bream Creek, Giant Steps and Moss Wood by the glass).

Japanese Peruvian cuisine is a global trend right now and Nikkei is the word used to describe immigrants of Japanese origin - of which there are many in Peru.

Nikkei food is characterized by its use of the wide variety of ingredients available to Peru, including aji amarillo, an emulsion of the South American chilli pepper.

The Callao menu blends traditional techniques with vibrant ingredients - every dish on the Chef's Selections tasting menu ($119 per person) offered myriad flavours, but with a real sense of cohesive style.

You are taken out of your comfort zone - but remain very comfortable.

Mainstays include fresh seafood like tiradito, marinated in zesty Peruvian sauces, and Baby octopus with tomato, green olives, saffron potatoes, chickpeas and chili oil.

 

After some warm edamame beans with smoked salt, our starters were a stunning scampi tartare with crispy rice, truffle mayo, avocado puree, pickled jalapeno and Siberian caviar - a very upmarket fish finger (above) - and a delightfully tangy salmon ceviche with aji amarllo, leche de tigre (a zesty Peruvian marinade made with lime juice, fish, and spices), toasted corn and sweet potato puree (below).

Then came Skull Island tiger prawns with aji panca (red pepper) bisque, sea urchin mayo and tabiko (flying fish roe) mayo (below); and Wagyu tri-tip with smoked date teriyaki, aji amarillo mayo and togarishi spices. Both extremely moreish. 

Main course is a chuck tail flap steak with with yuzu koshu butter, shitake jus and house mustard, served with with hasselback potato, quezo fresca, aji amarillo and dried sisho (below).

The final touch is "cheesecake" with toasted corn, finger lime, milk skin and avocado ice cream,

Tradition with a few twists and turns. Delightful flavours; great service, sensible portions. Highly recommended.  

For those wondering, Callao is a Peruvian seaside city and region on the Pacific Ocean in the Lima metropolitan area.

 

Callao is open for lunch and dinner Monday-Saturday and is at 100 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo, Sydney. callao.com.au.

Images: Anna Kucera, Winsor Dobbin

# The writer was hosted by Callao

Security guards employed to keep unruly tourists in line

Not everyone in Japan is delighted by the current tourism boom.

On a recent visit to Kanazawa I saw several restaurants with signs saying they would not serve anyone who didn't speak Japanese.

Several shops displayed blatantly racist signs warning foreigners they were not welcome (image above). 

   
And now a small town in Japan has taken drastic measures and hired a team of security guards to manage badly behaved tourists, news portal Travel Mole reported.

Otaru, a small port town on Hokkaido island has been inundated by crowds of tourists with some of them being a nuisance to locals.

The visitors have been blocking roads and pavements to scramble for photos at Instagram hotspot Funami-zaka, a steep street offering scenic views of the port and ocean.

It was a location for the 1995 Japanese film Love Letter and the 2015 Chinese movie Cities in Love, which have sparked interest in the town.

A Chinese woman was recently killed by a train in the town while reportedly distracted by taking photos.

Local residents have complained about large crowds of tourists blocking roads and some trespassing on private property to get a better vantage point to take photos.

“The road is lined with houses and has heavy traffic," a city official told the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper.

"Tourists standing on the street or walking side by side often make it impossible for vehicles to pass. The impact on residents has been significant.”

A record 36.7 million people visited Japan last year.

Several areas have taken action against over-tourism issues in Kyoto, Fujikawaguchiko near Mount Fujim and the spa town of Ginzan Onsen.

Images: Winsor Dobbin and Hokkaido Tourism 

Try time: Welsh whisky producer enjoying boom period

Scotch whisky? Sure. Irish whiskey? Absolutely. Whisky from Japan and Australia? Yep.

Welsh whisky? Well that's a surprise - as is the fact that it is enjoying success in whisky-obsessed Japan.

Penderyn Distillery is a pioneering Welsh whisky producer located in the Brecon Beacons National Park, the Copperworks in Swansea and Llandudno, North Wales, reviving Wales' long-dormant whisky-making tradition.

Founded in 2000 as the Welsh Whisky Company, Penderyn became the first commercial Welsh whisky producer since 1894, launching its first single malt in 2004.

The distillery is apparently known for its innovative Faraday Still distillation process, which produces a pure spirit with 92% alcohol in a single distillation run.

Penderyn is experiencing a surge in popularity among Japanese consumers, with its single malt Welsh whisky emerging as the top Welsh food and beverage product in the country.

Stephen Davies, CEO of Penderyn Distillery, attributes this phenomenon partly to the Japanese love of rugby.

"The Welsh rugby team is highly respected in Japan, and Penderyn has long been associated with Welsh rugby. Our commemorative bottle 'That Try' is just one example of this connection."

In 2024, Penderyn sold 10,000 cases across the Asia Pacific region, with Japan being a key market. This success is part of a broader trend of "unprecedented growth" across Asian markets, particularly in China and Taiwan.

Nicole Liu, Penderyn's brand manager and ambassador for Asia, highlights the unique appeal of their products:

"The Asian market has shown particular enthusiasm for our Dragon series, especially Penderyn Legend," she said. 

"Our distinctive use of Madeira casks sets us apart from the sherry cask-finished whiskies common in the region."

Davies adds: "Japan is an important market for world-class single malt whisky, making it a key target market for Penderyn Single Malt Welsh Whisky," 

The Year of the Dragon in 2024 proved advantageous for Penderyn's 'Welsh dragon', with the distillery's Dragon series seeing a surge in popularity across Asian markets.

The verdict: Penderyn Legend is very pale gold in colour, but impressively aromatic. The palate has creamy fudge notes with sultana and raisin notes. Subtle and sophisticated, and finishes very smooth on the palate.    

See www.penderyn.wales. 

Penderyn products are available in Australia at outlets including Nick's, Dan Murphy's stores and at www.whiskymarketplace.com.au/ 

Minor Hotels makes a major investment in Japan

Fast-growing hospitality group Minor Hotels International is set to enter Japan’s luxury and lifestyle hotel market with three of its brands.

Thai-based Minor, with more than 550 hotels and resorts worldwide across eight brands, has teamed up with hotel operator Royal Holdings Co in a strategic partnership. 

The joint venture will be called Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd and will boost Minor Hotels’ presence in the Japanese market.

The joint venture will introduce three Minor Hotels brands: Anantara, Avani, and Tivoli, news hub Travel Mole reports.

The hotels will be developed through both management agreements and lease arrangements, with a target set of 21 hotels by 2035.

MINT and Royal have previously worked together to introduce the Sizzler brand in Japan.

Royal operates 43 Richmond Hotels across Japan through its subsidiary, RNT Hotels Co.

The new business will focus on key business and leisure destinations.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence in the Japanese market, a key growth area for our company,” said Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International.

Unprecedented demand for small ship cruises to Japan

Following "unprecedented demand" for its 2026 sailings in Japan on board its newest ship, Star Seeker, small ship luxury cruise line Windstar Cruises has opened up its 2027 Japan itineraries for booking earlier than planned. 

The cruise line has also added an extra 2026 sailing date.

“Just months after announcing our 2026 plans in Japan, we’re nearly sold out,” says Windstar Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava.

“The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the world’s most-visited countries, has created an excitement for this region that we have not seen before.”

Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September of 2026, where Windstar will bring back its popular 10-night Grand Japan itinerary on five dates through October. 

The spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven dates from March through May.

Grand Japan highlights include scenic cruising the Inland Sea; sailing around the abandoned island of Hashima; visiting the Peace Memorial Parks of Nagasaki and Hiroshima; and calling on smaller ports like Takamatsu (famous for its gardens and udon) and Karatsu.

Cruisers can also extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise Tour, featuring inland tours to Kyoto where guests can bathe in hot springs, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and visit the Golden Pavilion.

The 2027 spring dates also offer the potential to experience Japan’s famed cherry blossoms, and Star Seeker’s accommodations are poised for ample spring season sightseeing as most have balconies and infinity windows.

Windstar's early booking offer includes a free upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares (valued at US$99 per day or $157 per day),which bundle in wifi, gratuities and unlimited select beer, wine and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom.

The offer expires February 28, 2025.

To find out more call Windstar Australia on 1300 749 875 or email reservations@windstar.com.au.

Thailand promoting its health and wellness possibilities

Thailand may be known as a sunny holiday destination with great islands and beautiful beaches but it also wants to boost its reputation as a serious health and wellness destination.

The Thai pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, in Japan, will highlight the country's commitment to becoming one of the global leaders in medical and wellness services.

In line with the Expo's theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," Thailand will aim to demonstrate how its blend of traditional practices and advanced medical services can foster "happiness and well-being for all".

Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsutin, says Expo can promote Thailand as a preferred global medical hub.

"We are excited to take part in this global event, where Thailand will share its unmatched expertise in both traditional Thai medicine and modern healthcare," Somsak said.

"Thailand's policies are focused on transforming the country into an international medical hub, and our participation in Expo 2025 in Osaka will highlight our strengths in these areas."

The Thai Pavilion at Expo 2025 will feature five key areas: 

# Traditional Thai Healthcare: Emphasizing the harmony between humans and nature, traditional Thai medicine has been practiced for centuries and remains integral to the country's identity.

# Thai Herbs and Culinary Health: Thailand's rich culinary traditions, such as the world-famous Tom Yum Goong, incorporate the healing power of Thai herbs, showcasing their health benefits.

# Thai Herbal Medicine: Visitors will learn about unique herbal products such as aroma inhalers and therapeutic massage oils, commonly used to promote health and well-being.

# Thai Massage: Recognized as a UNESCO cultural heritage activity, Thai massage is renowned for its healing properties, combining therapeutic techniques with relaxation.

# Modern Medical Excellence: Thailand is a recognized leader in modern healthcare, with 62 medical organizations accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), ranking the country fourth globally and No. 1 in Southeast Asia.

Thailand's healthcare services and hospitality have helped the country rank among the world's top five medical tourism destinations.

Expo 2025 is expected to attract 28 million visitors from around the world.

Image: Thailand Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan: April 13-October 13, 2025

ANA discounts domestic flights to locations across Japan

All Nippon Airwaysis backing travel industry campaigns to encourage travellers to get out and discover more of Japan’s remote regions.

The airline has launched a limited-time ANA Discover Japan fare bookable until January 30, offering discounted fares to cities across Japan.

One-way domestic fares from Tokyo's Haneda Airport start at 6,000 yen ($51) with fares between Tokyo and Hiroshima for 7,000 yen, and Fukuoka to Okinawa for 8,000 yen.

Fares apply to one-way tickets to various Japan cities, covering about 200 domestic routes.

The fares are available to all travellers flying to Japan on international flights, regardless of the airline.

The limited sale offers travellers access to more Japan cities as well as lesser-known regions.

The discounted fares are for travel from April 1-October 25. 

ANA flies to 50 airports across Japan.

Tourists can't get enough of Japan

Visitation to Japan hit an all-time high in the 2024 calendar year.

Japan's inbound tourism figures saw the Asian nation welcomed 36.87 million tourists - up by more than 15% on 2019’s previous best of 31.88 million people, Japan National Tourism Organisation data shows.

Major growth markets were South Korea and the US, both up nearly 60%, although the number of visitors from mainland China was down 27%, news portal Travel Mole reported.

Major Japanese travel agency group JTB has said it expects inbound Japan tourism to surpass 40 million for the first time in 2025.

Tourism-related spending by foreign visitors reached a record Y8.14 trillion ($US 52 billion) in 2024.

This is a 69% increase on pre-pandemic 2019.

*The number of foreign visitors to Japan is calculated based on immigration statistics compiled by the Ministry of Justice.

Qantas flights to link directly with Japanese ski resorts

Good news for snow lovers from Qantas with the unveiling of a new seasonal air route between Sydney and Sapporo - which becomes the 100th destination in the Qantas network.

Qantas today announced direct seasonal flights from Sydney to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, providing Australians with the only non-stop connection between the two cities and catering to the growing demand for travel to Japan’s snowfields.

Flights will commence just in time for the peak ski season with services to operate three times per week from December 15, 2025, to March 28, 2026 served by Airbus A330-200 aircraft.

Flights will depart Sydney in the morning and arrive at Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport early in the evening.

The flights will save Australians several hours compared to existing one-stop options and enable same-day travel to popular ski resorts Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu and Kiroro.

Skiers will also be able to enjoy a morning on the slopes before departing for Sydney in the evening.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is renowned for its dry powder snow, vibrant village centres and famous hot spring towns like Noboribetsu and Jozankei. The new Qantas flights will also coincide with the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Return economy fares from Sydney to Sapporo will be available at www.qantas.com.

The new Sapporo service marks the airline’s fourth route to Japan, complementing double daily flights from Sydney to Tokyo Haneda and daily services from Melbourne and Brisbane to Tokyo Narita.

“We know Sapporo is an extremely popular winter destination for Aussies who love the snow and we’re excited to make it even easier for them to reach Hokkaido’s world-class ski resorts with a direct fight from Sydney," says Qantas CEO for International Cam Wallace.

“These new flights will save passengers hours of travel time compared to connecting in Tokyo or other cities and give them more time to enjoy on the slopes.

“We last flew to Sapporo in early-2020 and had extremely positive feedback from customers, so we’re looking forward to operating this route again.”