Booking.com, one of the world’s largest digital travel platforms with the mission to make experiencing the world more accessible for everyone, conducted a survey on Japanese travelers’ trends for the 2024–2025 New Year holiday season. Based on data from accommodations searched for check-in on December 31, 2024, on its platform, Booking.com revealed a ranking of the most popular overseas destinations among Japanese travelers.
The results showed that Thailand emerged as the top overseas destination for Japanese travelers this New Year season. Known for its dry season during this time, with minimal rainfall and comfortable weather, Thailand is considered an ideal destination for tourism. Other top-ranking destinations included nearby Asian countries such as Taiwan and South Korea, with Vietnam, an affordable and seasonally pleasant Southeast Asian country, also making the list.
Luiz Rodrigues, Regional Manager for Japan and South Korea at Booking.com, noted that while domestic travel continues to dominate, there is a growing interest in overseas travel compared to last year, despite factors like a weak yen and rising costs. He highlighted that Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand and Vietnam offer excellent value, with favorable weather conditions and lower costs making them attractive even amidst the current exchange rate challenges. Additionally, the long holiday period of up to nine consecutive days this year has spurred interest in Europe, with destinations like France, Italy, and the United Kingdom gaining popularity. Rodrigues also reaffirmed Booking.com’s commitment to supporting Japanese travelers in enjoying enhanced overseas travel experiences.
Thailand, the top destination in the ranking, enjoys its dry season from November to February, with minimal rainfall and cooler weather, making it the best time to visit. Even during Japan’s cold winter, Thailand offers warm temperatures, with highs around 30°C, ideal for enjoying beach resorts. Popular activities include exploring islands such as Phuket, Phi Phi, and Racha, as well as taking cooking classes to learn traditional Thai cuisine.
(Source: Booking.com)
In Taiwan, the northern region, including Taipei, can feel chilly during this season. However, visitors can enjoy stays at accommodations featuring hot springs, such as Beitou and Wulai. Taipei 101’s countdown fireworks are a notable New Year’s event, while the southern areas of Tainan and Kaohsiung enjoy warmer and drier weather, making it the best time to explore traditional streetscapes and local cuisine.
(Source: Booking.com)
Vietnam’s southern region experiences its dry season at this time of year, with comfortable highs of around 30°C, making it an excellent period for sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Meanwhile, the central region, including popular destinations like Da Nang and Hoi An, is at the tail end of its rainy season. Visitors are encouraged to participate in cultural activities, such as tours offering traditional Vietnamese lantern-making experiences, on days when the weather is less favorable.
Established in Amsterdam in 1996, Booking.com offers a platform that makes it easy to book a wide variety of accommodations and transportation options. Through its loyalty program, “Genius,” users can access discounts and benefits at numerous properties and car rentals. Further details are available on its official website and social media accounts (@bookingcom_jp).
