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Dear ,
Welcome to the May 2023 Edition of the Japan Travel Trade Newsletter!
FLIGHT CAPACITY UPDATE
Flight capacity to Japan is set to further increase later this year, with QANTAS announcing the below changes to be made from 26 November:
- Sydney – Tokyo to increase from daily to double daily
- Melbourne – Tokyo to increase from four per week to daily
- Brisbane – Tokyo to increase from three per week to daily
The Melbourne and Brisbane services will move to Narita Airport, which is well connected to major stations across Tokyo through use of the Narita Express (which is conveniently covered by the Japan Rail Pass) and Keisei Skyliner. The Airport Limousine Bus also runs from Narita Airport to most major hotels across Tokyo. Take a look at this airport access page for more information.
VISIT JAPAN WEB
As of 29 April, all border control measures to Japan have been lifted and there is no vaccine requirement to enter the country. However, the Visit Japan Web service remains active and is a great way to expedite your clients' entry into the country. We strongly recommend that all travellers register immigration and customs information on Visit Japan Web a minimum of 1 day before departure.
OTHER JNTO NEWS
JNTO Sydney Office will also see some changes this year and will be welcoming a new Executive Director this June. Read on for messages from the outgoing and incoming Executive Directors as well as further updates and inspiration on Japan travel.
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Insider Tip
#29: Tsuyu (rainy season) - Pack an umbrella
Japan’s rainy season, known as
tsuyu, lasts for two to six weeks across June and early July (it can be earlier or later, and shorter or longer, depending on the region or the weather patterns that year).
But don’t let the phrase ‘rainy season’ scare you off; attractions tend to be less crowded, and there’s something undeniably peaceful about taking in a temple garden as raindrops create ripples in the pond.
Simply be prepared by carrying a small, foldable umbrella with you in your purse or backpack. You can purchase a cheap one for 500 to 1000 yen (currently about A$5.50 to $11) from a convenience store or supermarket, or why not buy a nicer one, maybe with a traditional Japanese pattern, as a souvenir? Then not only will you be ready for any sudden downpours (that, in all likelihood, will end within an hour) but you’ll have a lovely memento of your time in Japan.
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Change in Executive Director
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Dear valued partners,
I will be leaving Sydney on 9 June 2023 and taking over as Executive Director of JNTO’s Los Angeles Office.
It’s been a great pleasure working with you all over the past 4 years. The passion that I have seen from the Australian travel trade and travelling public with regards to travel to Japan has been inspiring, and I appreciate all of the support you have shown us over the years.
I hope that you will continue to cooperate with us to promote Japan, and that you show my successor the same warm hospitality that you have shown me. I wish you all the best.
Warm regards,
Yoko Tanaka
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Dear valued partners,
My name is Naoki Kitazawa. I am currently the Executive Director of JNTO’s Seoul Office and will be joining JNTO Sydney as the new Executive Director from June 2023.
I look forward to meeting with you all and further developing the partnerships that have been developed over the years, and continuing on in Ms Tanaka's footsteps.
Yours sincerely,
Naoki Kitazawa
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Travel Inspiration & Updates
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Things are starting to heat up in Japan, with the warmer months offering a host of exciting reasons to take the family on a Japan adventure. Marvel at the magical glow of fireflies at night, experience the excitement of a summer festival, sleep under the stars on an overnight glamping stay and more.
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Osaka is set to host the next World Expo in 2025, which will see some 150 countries gather on Yumeshima (meaning ‘Dream Island’) to explore the theme of ‘Designing future society for our lives’. Learn more about the Expo and lasting impact of artist Taro Okamoto on the event in Japan.
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Japan is a hidden gem for campervanning, boasting a well-maintained road network, an abundance of
onsen and
sento, plus plenty of roadside stations to stock up on supplies and recharge. Explore at your own pace and experience a different side of the country.
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The Dewa Sanzan have been an important spiritual destination for over 1,4000 years, and a pilgrimage there is believed to refresh the body and mind. Summer is an ideal time to visit as some of the areas aren’t accessible during the cooler months due to snowfall.
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Ponant is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a roadshow event this June in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth. Enjoy drinks and canapes, network with fellow explorers and hear from Ryo Ijichi, a Japanese expedition leader with extensive experience exploring Japan and polar regions.
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Sustainable Travel Experiences spotlight: #43 Delve into ancient theatrical arts in Kurokawa
Kurokawa Noh is a traditional art form with a unique style that sets it apart from mainstream noh. Learn about this centuries-old performances under the guidance of a noh master and help preserve artistic history for future generations on a visit to Kurokawa, Yamagata Prefecture.
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Witness the history and spirit of Hiroshima on this 5-day sample itinerary. Explore the sea routes used by Hiroshima’s pioneers in a kayak, make your own
okonomiyaki, take part in a morning chanting session at a temple and more.
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Resources for you and your clients
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Travel Trade Resources
Find e-learning programmes and webinars by JNTO & our partners; JNTO's photo and video library; brochures, maps and posters; inbound travel suppliers and more!
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Advise your clients to complete the forms on ‘Visit Japan Web’ prior to departure to streamline their entry into Japan. There are 2 forms: immigration (the digital equivalent of a disembarkation card) and customs.
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Open 24hrs, 365 days a year.
Call for tourist information, if you need assistance in case of emergencies (accidents or sickness) or for support during natural disasters.
Ph: +81 (0)50-3816-2787
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Copyright © 2023 Japan National Tourism Organization | All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
Japan National Tourism Organization
Suite 1, Level 4, 56 Clarence Street
Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
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The Tower of the Sun at the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park image: tbbstudio/Shutterstock.com |
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