Welcome to the final 2020 edition of the of the Japan Travel Trade Newsletter.

It is still unclear when international travel will resume, but until then we will continue bringing you travel dreaming inspiration and updates.

This month’s highlights include our new COVID-19 Health & Safety information page, news that Japan was the winner of two 'Out & About with Kids' Readers' Choice Awards and a competition for the New Zealand Travel Trade.

Happy Holidays from all of us at JNTO Sydney and we look forward to bringing you more travel inspiration and updates in the new year.

 #9: Christmas and New Year swap roles in Japan

Christmas in Japan is a spectacular affair, with huge trees both real and artificial all decked out with lights and ornaments, and 'light up' events across the country showing that when Japan decides to decorate, they go all out. However, one way Christmas in Japan differs from Australia (other than the weather) is that instead of being a family holiday, it’s more of a couples’ day. Many shops will even be open on Christmas Day, as it isn’t a national holiday.

Conversely, whereas New Year’s Eve is a major party event in Australia, the New Year holiday, which traditionally spans 29 Dec to 3 Jan but is now trimmed down to 31 Dec to 2 Jan for many, is traditionally a family holiday. Many shops and restaurants will be closed over this period as well, so it is prudent for your clients to plan ahead.