By 
Indian tourists are making significant strides in contributing to Japan’s travel economy, injecting nearly ¥19.2 billion during the second quarter of 2024. This impressive influx underscores a robust recovery and growth in Japan’s tourism sector, highlighting the increasing affluence and travel enthusiasm among Indian visitors.
Record-Breaking Expenditures Highlight Growing Affluence
The average expenditure per Indian visitor reached ¥266,186, marking an 11.3% increase compared to the overall average spend by foreign visitors, which stands at ¥239,028. This figure also represents a remarkable 61.4% rise from pre-pandemic levels in 2019, signaling a strong rebound in travel activities.
Breakdown of Spending Categories
Indian tourists allocated their budgets primarily towards accommodation, which accounted for 44.3% of their total expenditure. Food and beverages followed at 18.6%, while shopping comprised 17.5%, transportation 15.6%, and leisure activities 3.7%. This distribution highlights the comprehensive spending behavior of Indian travelers, encompassing both essential and discretionary expenses.
| Spending Category | Percentage of Total Spend |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 44.3% |
| Food & Beverages | 18.6% |
| Shopping | 17.5% |
| Transportation | 15.6% |
| Leisure | 3.7% |
Significant Growth Compared to Previous Years
The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Delhi office reported that Indian visitors contributed ¥19.2 billion (approximately INR 10,768 million) during the April-June period of 2024. This marks a staggering 120.7% increase from the same period in 2019 and a 63.1% rise compared to 2023, reflecting a robust recovery in international travel following pandemic-related disruptions.
Comparative Growth Metrics
- Total Travel Consumption (April-June 2024): ¥2,140.2 billion
- Increase from 2023: 73.7%
- Increase from 2019: 68.8%
- Indian Visitor Expenditure: ¥19.2 billion
- Increase from 2019: 120.7%
- Increase from 2023: 63.1%
- Average Expenditure per Indian Visitor: ¥266,186
- Increase from 2019: 61.4%
- Average Spend on Tourism & Leisure: ¥299,950
- Increase from Global Average: 25.8%
- Increase from 2019: 68.2%
- Number of Indian Visitors (April-June 2024): 71,923
- Increase from 2019: 36.7%
- Increase from 2023: 48.3%
- Highest Monthly Visitors (May 2024): 29,100
- Increase from May 2023: 61.7%
These statistics illustrate the dynamic growth trajectory of Indian tourists in Japan, emphasizing both the volume and value of their travel contributions.
Ryo Bunno’s Insights on the Growing Trend
Ryo Bunno, Executive Director of the JNTO Delhi Office, commented on the significant rise in Indian traveler spending: “The increase in spending by visitors from India is a testament to the country’s prosperity and growing affluence. We are optimistic that this trend will contribute to the continued growth and development of the tourism sectors in both India and Japan.”
Bunno further elaborated, “Notably, accommodation constitutes a significant portion of travel spending by Indian visitors. Japan boasts numerous world-class hotel brands that offer exceptional service and are ideally located for both leisure and business travelers. We sincerely hope that more Indian tourists will choose to experience Japan’s outstanding hospitality and services. India remains one of the most promising markets for inbound tourism to Japan.”
Factors Driving Increased Travel Expenditure
Several factors contribute to the substantial increase in travel expenditure by Indian tourists:
- Economic Prosperity: Rising disposable incomes among Indian travelers enable higher spending on international trips.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Improved flight connectivity between India and Japan facilitates easier and more frequent travel.
- Cultural Affinity: Strong cultural and historical ties between India and Japan enhance the appeal of Japan as a travel destination.
- Diverse Attractions: Japan’s diverse attractions, including its rich cultural heritage, modern amenities, and scenic landscapes, cater to a wide range of interests among Indian tourists.
- Targeted Marketing: Effective marketing strategies by JNTO and Japanese businesses specifically targeting Indian tourists have boosted visibility and attractiveness.
Impact on Japan’s Tourism Sector
The surge in spending by Indian visitors is expected to have a positive ripple effect on Japan’s broader tourism economy. Increased revenue from tourism contributes to various sectors, including hospitality, retail, and transportation, fostering economic growth and job creation.
Economic Benefits
- Job Creation: Enhanced tourism activities lead to the creation of more jobs in the hospitality and service industries.
- Local Business Growth: Increased spending supports local businesses, from small shops to large retail chains, promoting economic sustainability.
- Infrastructure Development: Greater tourist inflow encourages investment in infrastructure, improving overall travel experiences.
Future Projections and Strategic Initiatives
Looking ahead, JNTO aims to sustain and further accelerate the growth of Indian tourism to Japan through strategic initiatives:
- Customized Travel Packages: Developing tailored travel packages that cater to the specific preferences and needs of Indian tourists.
- Cultural Exchange Programs: Promoting cultural exchange programs to deepen the connection between Indian travelers and Japanese culture.
- Enhanced Digital Marketing: Leveraging digital platforms to reach a wider audience and engage potential travelers through targeted campaigns.
- Collaborations with Indian Travel Agencies: Partnering with major travel agencies in India to streamline travel arrangements and offer attractive deals.
These initiatives are designed to capitalize on the current growth momentum, ensuring that Japan remains a top destination for Indian travelers in the years to come.