Australian Travel to Japan Surges 14.6% in January 2026

New figures from Japan National Tourism Organisation show a remarkable surge in Australian visitors to Japan, with 160,700 travellers recorded in January 2026. This represents a substantial 14.6 per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous year, highlighting Japan's growing appeal as a premier winter destination for Australians.

Beyond the Slopes: Japan's Diverse Winter Attractions

While Japan's famous powder snow, often referred to as 'Japow,' continues to attract skiers and snowboarders, the country's winter tourism is expanding into more immersive seasonal experiences. A spokesperson for Japan National Tourism Organisation emphasised that Australia's appetite for Japan extends well beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding activities.

Key winter experiences drawing Australian travellers include:

Soaking in open-air onsens surrounded by snow-covered landscapes
Watching snow monkeys bathe in natural hot springs at Nagano
Exploring lantern-lit winter festivals throughout the country
Marvelling at surreal 'snow monsters' in Zao Onsen
Visiting illuminated winter displays like Nagoya's Nabana no Sato
Exploring traditional villages such as Hida folk village in Gifu

Regional Travel Progression: Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan

During a presentation at World Travel Fest Perth, travel expert Stephen Scourfield outlined a natural progression for Australian travellers who have enjoyed Japan. He suggested that South Korea represents the next logical destination, followed by Taiwan as travellers expand their Asian exploration.

"Given the choice between travelling to Japan and to South Korea, I'd probably pick South Korea," Scourfield noted. "And given the choice of travelling to South Korea or Taiwan, I'd probably go to Taiwan. To me there is a nice and natural progression for travellers who have enjoyed Japan to then explore South Korea, and then Taiwan."

Visual Winter Wonders of Japan

The winter landscape of Japan offers numerous photographic opportunities that continue to attract Australian visitors:

Snowy mountain scenes in Nagano with people using snowshoes
The famous Yamagata Snow Monsters creating surreal frozen formations
The spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival with its massive ice sculptures
Nighttime views of Misotsuchi icicles illuminated against dark skies
Traditional architecture at Hida folk village blanketed in snow

This diverse range of winter experiences, combined with Japan's reputation for excellent hospitality and infrastructure, continues to position the country as a top choice for Australian travellers seeking unique seasonal adventures. The 14.6 per cent increase in January visitors demonstrates the growing recognition of Japan's winter offerings beyond its world-class ski resorts.