Japan Travel Updates May 2024
News From JNTO

Explore Royal Artwork at The Museum of the Imperial Collections, Sannomaru Shozokan

Get the Latest on Expo 2025 Coming to Osaka

2024 will mark the first time both the United States and Japan have developed this kind of union, which seeks to promote increased travel, mutual tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The Tourism Year agreement is a project of Japan National Tourism Organization(JNTO), the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA) and the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office and U.S. Commercial Service, the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo and Brand USA.
Educational Tools & Resources

 

 Japan Safe Travel Twitter – Stay Up to Date

For more information: https://twitter.com/JapanSafeTravel

 

News From Japan
Explore Shizuoka – Hamamatsu Festival
During Golden Week each year, the famous Hamamatsu Festival (May 3rd – 5th) takes place in Shizuoka, drawing about 2 million visitors. The festival, celebrating Children's Day on May 5th, is a vibrant showcase of Japanese traditions, particularly kite flying. Dating back over 450 years, the festival began as a way to pray for children's health and prosperity. Visitors can witness thrilling kite battles at Nakatajima Sand Dunes by day and join the lively procession in downtown Hamamatsu City at night. Colorful floats, rhythmic drum beats, and flute melodies create an enchanting atmosphere, inviting everyone to partake in this cultural extravaganza. Learn More
Kochi Prefecture – Osaka to Kochi Drive Map
Traveling by rental car allows you to visit a wide variety of off-the-beaten-track places at your own pace, especially in the countryside of Japan, without having to worry about the schedule of public transportation which runs less frequently than in big cities. Of course, it’s just the case in Kochi Prefecture. Here are two special guides which will help you plan an exciting and memorable road trip: one to inspire with ideas arranged by interests when visiting Kochi Prefecture, and the another for route ideas traveling to and from Osaka after visiting must-see spots in Shikoku. 
 
Kyoto City Tourism – Aoi Matsuri
Held annually on May 15th, Aoi Matsuri is considered one of the most important festivals in Kyoto. Dating back over 1,400 years to the Heian period, it venerates the deities of Shimogamo Shrine, Kamigamo Shrine, and Kamo Shrine. The festival’s grand procession, where hundreds of participants dress in ancient court costumes, symbolizes Japan’s rich heritage and the harmony between people, nature, and spirituality. This tradition fosters a deep sense of community and reverence for Japan’s historical and cultural roots. Visitors are warmly invited to join in and experience this vibrant celebration of tradition and spirituality. Learn More
Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau – Okinawa Adventures
Okinawa Adventures offers adventure tourism to travelers in the northern part of Okinawa main island. Experience the magic of northern Okinawa, secret island sacred nature. There you will find the Yanbaru forest (World Natural Heritage Site), coral-rich sea, and unique culture dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Okinawa is featured as one of the blue zone areas. Okinawan people’s lifestyle that coexists with nature are also attracting attention. Through conversation with our experienced tour guides and local guides, travelers will reach a deep understanding of this unique place. Discover awe-inspiring nature. 
Toyooka Tourism Innovation – Kinosaki Must-Visits Pass
The Kinosaki Must-Visits Pass is an insider go-to for all of Kinosaki’s must-see attractions and shops. Receive a roundtrip ticket on the Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway up to Onsenji Temple with admission to temple grounds and the Kinosaki Museum of Art. At Kamiya Mingei, guests experience straw craft, a traditional Japanese artform only found in Kinosaki Onsen. The Kinosaki Must-Visits Pass can be purchased through klook.com and be packaged together with a five-day JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass, providing access to Japan’s western far-flung treasures. Learn More
Yokohama City Visitor's Bureau – Yokohama Sparkling Twilight
The fireworks event, "Yokohama Sparkling Twilight," at Yokohama Port will be held for 25 days or more in total this year. You can enjoy fireworks in any season when you come to Yokohama. Join us for an electrifying night by the bay. Embrace the vibrant culture and charm of Yokohama, Japan, on a night you'll never forget. Don't miss out on this magical celebration of Japanese craftsmanship and artistry! And also Watching fireworks while enjoying Yokohama's original beer is the ultimate experience!
Hotel Updates
Family Stays Together in Every Suite
Best Available Rate -
Firefly Evening Dinner Buffet
Pokémon Sleep Stay Packages
 
From June 1st
Enjoy All-You-Can-Eat Sushi 
Location Overlooking the Sea of Yakushima, a World Heritage Site
Transportation Updates 
ANA’s 11 Consecutive Years of
5-Star Excellence
JAL A350-1000 Dallas Fort Worth –
Tokyo (Haneda) Service Begins
May 2024 Limited Time Offer – Up to 35% off & more! *
Tour Updates 

Backroads

Japan Bike Tour & Japan Walking and Hiking Tour

For travel agent commission information, click here

Globus

Visions of Japan

Commission varies, contact for full details

Japan by Magister

Discover Japan

NET or 14% commission

Oku Japan

In the Shadow of Mountains

Commissionable for travel agents - contact for details

Travel Answers

Best of Japan

Travel Agent Commission 12%

THE FINE PRINT/LEGAL STUFF
Information is provided in this Japan Travel Update as a courtesy to readers of this newsletter. Though JNTO endeavors to ensure the information is accurate, users of the information are to act on such using their own judgment and at their own risk. Neither JNTO nor any holder of a copyright to the information shall be held responsible in any way whatsoever for any loss or misunderstanding, either direct or indirect, that is incurred as a result of utilizing the information.
Publisher: Japan National Tourism Organization
URL: www.japan.travel/en/us

New York Office (in even months)
250 Park Avenue, Suite 1900, New York, NY 10177
email: infonyc@jnto.go.jp

Los Angeles Office (in odd months)
707 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 4325, Los Angeles, CA 90017
email: infolax@jnto.go.jp
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Japan National Tourism Organization New York Office 250 Park Avenue, Suite 1900, New York, NY 10177 email: infonyc@jnto.go.jp Los Angeles Office 707 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 4325, Los Angeles, CA 90017 email: infolax@jnto.go.jp


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