As autumn settles in, the allure of travel awakens with it. The Jalan Research Center recently unveiled its "Domestic Accommodation Travel Needs Survey 2024 Autumn," revealing a strong preference for domestic travel over overseas adventures, largely influenced by various factors beyond the weak yen.

Top Destinations for Autumn Travel

The survey highlighted Tokyo as the most popular autumn travel destination, followed by Hokkaido, Osaka, Okinawa, and Shizuoka. The Tokyo’s appeal lies in its vibrant urban attractions, new developments, and shopping opportunities, making it a year-round draw for travelers. In contrast, Hokkaido offers a serene escape with stunning autumn foliage, local cuisine, and relaxing hot springs.

Trends in Travel Preferences

A significant 45.4% of respondents expressed a preference for domestic travel, citing factors like improved regional tourism infrastructure and a growing variety of services catering to local travelers. Despite the weak yen, the appeal of exploring Japan remains strong, with travelers finding satisfaction in local experiences.

Regional Insights

The survey also revealed interesting regional preferences: people from Tohoku, Koshinetsu, and Kyushu gravitated toward Tokyo, while Shizuoka was favored by those in the Kanto region. Notably, the Kansai region showed a strong inclination toward hot springs, with Hyogo emerging as a top choice for relaxation seekers.

Emerging Autumn Trends

There is a potential rise in outdoor activities such as hiking and fruit picking this fall, as people seek to enjoy the milder weather after a scorching summer. Recommended spots around Kanto include Chiba and the Boso Peninsula, where nature enthusiasts can relish the changing seasons.

As autumn unfolds, Japan's rich tapestry of travel options is capturing the hearts of many, reinforcing the importance of exploring the beauty within the country's borders.