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Dear ,
Welcome to the June and July edition of the Japan Travel Trade Newsletter for 2026.
Early summer in Japan signals the start of tsuyu, when many regions experience increased rainfall. Despite its name, the rain is rarely constant, and can even lend a distinctive charm to gardens, landscapes and natural scenery. The season arrives earlier in Okinawa, while Hokkaido remains largely unaffected, making it a popular option at this time of year.
Looking ahead, a number of consumer and trade events are coming up, including the Sake Festivals in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. We will also be at ILTM Asia Pacific in Singapore, so please come and say hi if you are attending.
Registrations for the August Roadshows will open soon, so make sure you and your colleagues are subscribed to our mailing list to receive the latest registration information.
Read on to discover new stays, summer travel inspiration and important updates, including upcoming webinar registration.
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Harriett Bougher
Business Development & Senior Assistant Marketing Manager
JNTO Sydney Office
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Training & Trade Resources
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JNTO Japan 2.0 Webinar Series |
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Thank you to those who tuned in to the first instalment of our new Japan 2.0 Webinar Series, which focused on Family Travel. The recording is available on our training resources page. Contact tradeau@jnto.go.jp if you would like the resource list and/or a copy of the slides.
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Webinar 2: Winter in Japan
Date: Wednesday 12 August
Time: 12pm (AEST)
Our next webinar of the Japan 2.0 Series will dive deeper into winter travel in Japan. Learn more about not just Japan's world-class ski resorts but also seasonal highlights including onsen, festivals, seasonal cuisine and breathtaking landscapes. Gain practical insights into creating well-rounded winter itineraries that combine snow experiences with authentic cultural immersion.
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JNTO Partner Webinars: Discover Regional Japan
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SLC Representation will host a three-part webinar series showcasing three prefectures:
・Ehime: Wednesday 24 June, 12pm (AEST)
・Oita: Wednesday 1 July, 12pm (AEST)
・Fukuoka: Wednesday 8 July, 12pm (AEST)
The 45-minute webinars will include destination highlights and travel tips, product updates and suggested itineraries, and a Q&A with local expert Masa Ide.
Register for all three webinars here and join live for a chance to win a $100 gift voucher at each session.
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New Accommodation Round-up |
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Here is a selection of recently opened and upcoming accommodation, each with its own unique appeal. |
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Azuma Farm Koiwai
Iwate, opened 23 April
Set within the scenic Koiwai Farm, this experiential retreat features 24 private villas offering an intimate and exclusive immersion in farm life.
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KAI Kusatsu by Hoshino Resorts
Gunma, opening 7 June
Located in the popular hot spring destination of Kusatsu Onsen, this 94-room ryokan blends contemporary design with local heritage, featuring a private tunnel to the lively town.
Image © KAI Kusatsu
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HOSHINOYA Nara Prison
Nara, opening 25 June
A historical former prison, designated a National Important Cultural Property, will be reimagined as a luxury hotel with an adjacent museum.
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Travel Inspiration & Updates
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Discover Shirakami Sanchi: A New Visitor Experience
The newly renovated visitor facility in northern Akita serves as a gateway to the UNESCO-listed Shirakami Sanchi. Interactive exhibits, multilingual audio guides and on-site nature advisors provide valuable context, making it an ideal first stop for clients before exploring highlights such as Juniko Lakes, Anmon Falls and Dairakyo Gorge.
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Comfort and Culture in the Heart of Shibuya
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel in Shibuya has launched a new room category following renovations. The redesigned rooms focusing on functionality and comfort catering to both leisure and business travellers.
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Open-air Noh on Sado Island, Niigata
Experience the tradition of Noh theatre on Sado Island, where performances are held outdoors at shrines from June through October (see 2026 schedule here). Combine with other Sado Island highlights like a ride in a wooden tub boat and a hands-on taiko performance for a culture-filled island getaway.
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From 1 July 2026, Japan’s international tourist tax will increase to 3,000 yen (approx. 27 AUD). The tax is typically collected by airlines and cruise operators and included in ticket pricing, with revenue supporting visitor experience improvements and the preservation of natural, historical and cultural assets.
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Updates to Power Bank Regulations
From April 2026, passengers will no longer be able to use power banks onboard, and a limit of two power banks per person will also apply. Existing rules (e.g. carry-on only) remain unchanged.
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Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney Sake Festivals
The Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney Sake Festivals return in 2026, offering a chance to sample a wide range of sake alongside Japanese street food and cultural experiences. Visit our stand during the events for travel inspiration, resources and itinerary ideas for clients planning a trip to Japan.
・Brisbane: Friday 19 – Sunday 21 June 2026
・Melbourne: Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 July 2026
・Sydney: Friday 11 – Sunday 13 September 2026
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Responsible Travel Guide
Help your clients better understand Japan's traditions, customs and travel etiquette with our responsible travel guide. It offers practical tips on topics such as respectful photography, hands-free travel and simple gestures that foster more positive, memorable experiences.
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Travel Trade Resources
Find e-learning programmes and webinars by JNTO & our partners, a Japan photo and video library portal, digital maps and posters, inbound travel suppliers and more!
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Advise your clients to complete their immigration and customs forms on Visit Japan Web prior to departure to streamline their entry into Japan. |
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Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call for tourist information for assistance in case of emergencies (accidents or sickness) or for support during natural disasters. Phone: +81 (0)50 3816 2787
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Copyright © 2026 Japan National Tourism Organization | All rights reserved.
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Sado Island content is from Partners Information. |
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