Japan, offering affordable options, to be top travel destination in 2025

Travel+Leisure unveils in its article that Japan is shaping up to be one of the top travel destinations in 2025. 

While some of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences—like enjoying expertly crafted nigiri at a Michelin-starred omakase, staying at luxurious five-star hotels in Tokyo, or indulging in a private onsen experience—can be quite expensive, a memorable trip to the Land of the Rising Sun doesn't have to drain your wallet. The weak yen, which hit a 38-year low in July, makes it even more affordable. Even in more expensive cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for activities, accommodations, and dining. And if you venture off the beaten path, you'll find even more affordable prices.

Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is the most popular time to visit Japan, with 3.1 million international visitors arriving in March 2024, many hoping to see the iconic pink blooms. However, this time of year comes with challenges: it's incredibly crowded and expensive. Another issue, according to Japan travel expert Todd Fong, is that planning your trip around the cherry blossoms can be an unreliable strategy due to the unpredictability caused by climate change. "If you're set on visiting during the peak season, I suggest coming a little earlier or later than the traditional sakura time to avoid the largest crowds. In northern Honshu (Tohoku) and Hokkaido, you can still experience beautiful blooms well into April," Fong advises. For a quieter experience, plum blossom season in February offers stunning views and occurs off-peak. 

Additionally, Japan's domestic travel peaks around three major holidays: Golden Week (typically the first week of May), Obon (Aug. 13-16), and the New Year holidays (roughly Dec. 30 to Jan. 4). Fong recommends avoiding these periods if possible, as both domestic and international travelers flood transportation and accommodations, making it difficult to secure Shinkansen tickets or flights.

Autumn is another popular time for enjoying Japan’s vibrant foliage, though it tends to be less crowded. "Remember, the fall colors usually peak later than most expect, around early November instead of mid-October," says Fong. Outside of ski resorts and hot spring towns, winter is generally quieter, making it easier to find good deals (except during the holiday periods, of course).

With record numbers of tourists visiting Japan, finding affordable flights can be difficult. The best opportunities for cheaper tickets are during the shoulder seasons—spring (excluding Golden Week) and fall.

Travelers might also consider a stopover to save on flight costs. For example, flights from Los Angeles or San Francisco are typically about half the price of those departing from New York, so taking a short trip or pitstop on the West Coast before continuing to Japan could be a cost-effective option.

By Naila Huseynova