By Barry Coughlan
At the risk of venturing outside the Irish and American markets (I don’t make any excuses), Japan, after reopening its borders to international travelers a year ago, has seen a steady recovery of inbound visitors, exceeding millions last year.
Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, JNTO sets new tourism goals for the first time in six years. With sustainability remaining a core focus, JNTO will highlight luxury, sports and outdoors, and slow travel which will offer true immersive experiences.
Accordingly, a number of attractions have opened or are due to do so soon.
World’s first Janu property set to open in Tokyo, opening March 2024
Janu, the highly anticipated sibling to the renowned Aman group, is set to launch its first property, Janu Tokyo is expected to open in March.
The property will feature 122 rooms and suites, eight dining venues, two retail boutiques and a huge Wellness Center.
Room rates, though, are expensive, in excess, probably, of $1000 a night.
Experience tropical luxury with Japan’s first Rosewood property in Okinawa, which will be opening soon as well
The Rosewood Miyakojima will be a luxury resort featuring 55 villas with private pools and will occupy a secluded peninsula surrounded on three sides by white sand beaches, dramatic rock formations and stunning ocean views. Near the resort, you can snorkel on Japan’s largest coral reef, Yabiji, as well as dive in underwater caves filled with colorful fish. The resort will also have four restaurants and bars.
Where luxury and tradition merge into one, the Six Senses will open in Kyoto in Spring
Here, guests can stay right in front of Myoho-in Temple and Toyokuni-Jinja Shrine and within walking distance to the popular Gion district, which is known for its beautiful architecture and geishas. The hotel will have 81 rooms, situated around a stylish courtyard inspired by Japanese traditions. The hotel also focuses on Japanese Zen in the spa, for tea ceremonies and in the hotel’s Zen garden. Six Senses Kyoto will have several restaurants and bars, including a sushi restaurant.
Meanwhile, those hoping for a slow pace of life can look further and there are some suggestions to follow.
The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail celebrates its 20th anniversary
Wakayama 2024 marks the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage trail’s 20th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of only two pilgrimage routes to hold the UNESCO designation, the Kumano Kodo trail is made up of a network of routes, linking ancient shrines to one another.
Visitors start off at the largest torii gate in Japan and end at the tallest waterfall in the country. The trails vary in difficulty and length, ranging from several hours to a few days.
The original and main route – the Koyasan Choishi-michi michi Pilgrimage Trail is the traditional entrance to the religious city of Koyasan, stretching 15 miles.
The new Hokkaido East Trail (HET) opening new doors for adventure travel
Planned for October 2024, the new 230 mile Hokkaido East Trail is set to position Hokkaido as a year-round destination, adding to the region’s adventure travel offerings. Although Hokkaido’s powder snow will still remain a key draw for winter travelers, the new trail will allow visitors to experience the beauty of Hokkaido during the Spring, Summer and Autumn seasons. The hiking trail will cross through three National Parks.