According to estimates released by the Japan National Tourism Organization on Tuesday, March 18, 2026, the number of international visitors to Japan in February 2026 reached 3,466,700, representing a year-on-year increase of 6.4%. This marked a record high for the month of February and maintained a high level exceeding 3 million visitors. Compared to the previous month, January 2026 (3,597,500 visitors), the figure decreased by 130,800. While January 2026 saw a year-on-year decline of 4.9%, February recorded an increase.
The timing of the Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year), which fell in late January in 2025 but shifted to mid-February in 2026, contributed to increased inbound demand, particularly from East Asia. Continued demand during the winter season also supported the growth in visitor numbers.
In the East Asian market, South Korea recorded 1,086,400 visitors, up 28.2% year-on-year, reaching a record high for February, supported by strong travel demand and increased flight capacity. Taiwan recorded 693,600 visitors (+36.7%), and Hong Kong 233,900 visitors (+19.6%), both showing growth. In contrast, China recorded 396,400 visitors, down 45.2% year-on-year. The decline was attributed to the shift in the Lunar New Year period, travel advisories issued by the Chinese government, and reduced flight capacity.
In Southeast Asia, Thailand recorded 117,000 visitors (+0.2%), Singapore 51,300 (+21.4%), Indonesia 51,200 (+8.9%), and the Philippines 71,700 (+7.5%). Meanwhile, Malaysia recorded 59,700 visitors (-8.0%), and Vietnam 61,000 (-17.4%). Growth in several markets was supported by increased flights, public holidays, school vacations, and winter travel demand.
In the Europe, North America, and Oceania markets, the United States recorded 219,700 visitors (+14.7%), Canada 51,300 (+15.3%), the United Kingdom 35,600 (+13.3%), France 30,600 (+15.4%), and Germany 21,900 (+17.5%). Australia recorded 87,000 visitors (-2.0%), but many European markets showed growth. Russia recorded 7,700 visitors (+35.9%), and Nordic countries 13,600 (+13.2%), indicating increases across a wide range of markets.
Overall, inbound demand in February 2026 exceeded the previous year, supported by increased travel demand from East Asia due to the shift in the Lunar New Year period. On the other hand, declines were observed in the Chinese market, indicating variations in performance across markets. JNTO stated that it will continue to promote inbound tourism strategically based on market trends, in line with the goals of “sustainable tourism,” “expansion of consumption,” and “promotion of regional destinations.”
