Airbnb Japan Co., Ltd. introduced the 2026 travel trends based on “2026 Travel Predictions Revealed” announced on December 7, 2025 (U.S. time). Among Generation Z travelers, short overseas trips of one to two days are gaining popularity, with an emphasis on energetic and culturally immersive experiences. Interest in nature and outdoor activities is also rising, with searches for U.S. national parks increasing by 35%. In addition, travel linked to major global events—such as the Winter Olympics, Coachella, and the FIFA World Cup—is becoming a major trend. In Japan, event-based travel is also on the rise, including trips related to the F1 Japanese Grand Prix and the Sapporo Snow Festival.
According to Airbnb, Generation Z travelers seek to make the most of limited time by pursuing adventurous and fulfilling travel experiences. Popular destinations for short trips include Buenos Aires, Busan, João Pessoa, Koh Samui, Marrakech, Mexico City, and Nakano in Tokyo. These cities attract travelers with diverse cultural activities such as music, dance, cuisine, and art. The growth of short-term travel is also linked to the spread of “micro-travel,” a trend fueled by social media and the desire to integrate travel into everyday life.
Meanwhile, interest in reconnecting with nature is increasing. In the United States, destinations such as the Great Smoky Mountains and Yosemite National Park are attracting more visitors, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary and several parks’ 100th anniversaries. Searches for accommodations near national parks in the U.S. have risen by 35%, with a notable increase in solo travel. Similarly, destinations near protected natural areas—such as Crete in Greece and Goa in India—are seeing growing popularity.
Event-driven travel is also on the rise, with significant increases in searches for cities like Rio de Janeiro, known for its Carnival; Indio, home to Coachella; and Milan, host of the 2026 Winter Olympics. In Japan, travel to Suzuka city, Mie Prefecture for the F1 Japanese Grand Prix and to Sapporo during the Snow Festival period has gained attention as part of this trend.
Furthermore, experiential culinary travel and wine tourism are expanding, with hands-on activities such as baking and cooking classes attracting growing interest. Experiences like making traditional Japanese sweets in Tokyo, croissants in Paris, and chocolate cakes in Lisbon are especially popular. Around the world, demand for food-centered travel experiences continues to rise. Airbnb aims to provide travelers with opportunities to connect more deeply with local cultures and nature through these diverse forms of travel.
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