Tourist Arrivals in Japan decreased to 3693300 in May from 3908900 in April of 2025. This dataset provides - Japan Tourist Arrivals - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

In 2024, Japan welcomed approximately **** million visitors from South Korea. Inbound tourists from South Korea and China were the most numerous, with South Korea performing very well relative to previous results. Visitor numbers for most countries and territories, with the notable exception of China, and Russia, surpassed their results from 2019, before the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 What are the leading drivers for inbound tourism in Japan? Depending on their country of origin, travelers tended to seek different experiences from their stay in Japan. For tourists from China, Japanese cuisine, as well as shopping seemed to be leading motivations to visit Japan. This was the case for many other East Asian travelers, as Japanese food and shopping districts also appeared to be the most appealing for South Korean and Taiwanese tourists. Looking at the leading activities among Chinese tourists in Japan, eating Japanese food, shopping, and walking in shopping districts were the most popular and were undertaken by the vast majority. Asian visitors’ motivations and activities tended to be consumer oriented. On the other hand, leading drivers for visitors from the West, for example, the United States, tended to be more culture oriented. Next to eating Japanese food, leading drivers for Western nations also included experiencing Japan’s nature, sightseeing, and learning about Japanese history and culture.  Shopping tourism in Japan Inbound shopping tourism is thriving in Japan and is especially popular among East Asian visitors. One possible explanation is Japan’s reputation of having a high product quality and service-oriented mindset, while another reason might be the government’s proactive approach to enabling shopping tourism in general. Chinese tourists seem to have taken a liking to shopping in Japan, as they rank first in terms of foreign visitor per capita shopping expenditure.

Tokyo Prefecture ranked first among Japanese prefectures in 2024 in terms of visiting rates by international tourists, with a visiting rate of **** percent. The second most visited prefecture was Osaka, followed by Chiba, which is neighboring Tokyo Prefecture. Tourism in Japan Inbound tourism strongly increased in the past decade, as the Japanese government actively engaged in projects to boost inbound tourism, setting high goals for the near future. However, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everything. Nevertheless, the newest inbound annual figures indicate that inbound tourism fully recovered from the pandemic, continuing its upward trend. Sightseeing in TokyoThe Japanese capital, Tokyo, is the largest city in Japan in terms of population. It consists of ** wards, of which many have a unique appeal for tourists. The most popular destinations in Tokyo for foreign visitors include districts such as Shinjuku, where the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government are located, the shopping-district Ginza, and the electronic town Akihabara, which attracts overseas fans of Japanese popular culture. One-day trips to places outside of Tokyo, such as Kamakura, Nikko, or Yokohama, are also a possibility and add to the appeal the city has as a destination for inbound tourists.

In 2024, the number of inbound visitors traveling to Japan amounted to approximately ***** million, setting a new record. The majority of international visitors arrived from East Asian countries. Travel during COVID-19Japan imposed international travel entry bans when COVID-19 had turned into a pandemic. In 2022, restrictions and stringent requirements that need to be fulfilled for those who wish to visit Japan remained in place. Inbound travel was difficult, resulting in the continuation of the low number of inbound travelers recorded. Travel bans were lifted in 2023 and entry to Japan was possible again with some restrictions still in place. Inbound tourism in JapanWhile domestic tourism comprises the lion's share of Japan's travel and tourism industry, inbound tourism is regarded as a promising source of income with potential for growth. Foreign tourism's contribution to the tourism GDP increased consistently in the years prior to the pandemic, as did the tourism expenditure by international visitors. Motivations to visit JapanThe island nation offers international tourists a range of holiday activities in the bustling metropolises, contrasted by the overabundance of nature-related activities in the suburban areas away from city life. The most common activity that motivated tourists to visit Japan was to try the local cuisine. While well-known Japanese dishes like ramen and sushi ranked high among overseas travelers, the most popular food during their stay in Japan was meat and meat-related dishes.

Key information about Japan Visitor Arrivals

• Japan Visitor Arrivals recorded 3,781,200 person in Jan 2025, compared with 3,489,800 person in the previous month
• Japan Visitor Arrivals data is updated monthly, available from Jan 1962 to Jan 2025
• The data reached an all-time high of 3,781,200 person in Jan 2025 and a record low of 1,663 person in May 2020

Japan National Tourist Organization provides monthly Tourist Arrivals. Tourist Arrivals include Same-Day Visitors.

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Cultural Tourism Market Size 2025-2029

The cultural tourism market size is forecast to increase by USD 8.41 billion, at a CAGR of 18.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing number of individuals seeking unique, immersive experiences to alleviate stress and enrich their personal growth. This trend is further fueled by the burgeoning adoption of advanced technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in cultural tourism, enabling travelers to explore historical sites and artifacts in a more engaging and interactive manner. However, this market faces challenges as well. Overtourism, or the excessive concentration of tourists in specific locations, poses a threat to the preservation of cultural heritage sites and the local communities that rely on tourism.
Addressing this issue through sustainable tourism practices and effective crowd management strategies is essential for companies seeking to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the market while mitigating potential risks. By focusing on innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of travelers, while respecting and preserving cultural heritage, businesses can differentiate themselves and thrive in this dynamic and growing market.

What will be the Size of the Cultural Tourism Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, driven by the increasing demand for authentic and immersive experiences. Crowd control and tourism infrastructure remain key concerns as cultural heritage sites attract large numbers of visitors. Digital guides and mobile applications enhance the visitor experience, offering GPS navigation, augmented reality, and interactive exhibits. Economic impact is a significant factor, with art galleries, language courses, and adventure tourism contributing to local economies. Visitor management systems and travel advisories ensure responsible tourism practices, while travel agencies and tourist information centers facilitate seamless travel experiences. Visa requirements and health precautions are essential considerations for tourists.

Sustainable tourism initiatives, such as waste management and cultural preservation, minimize environmental impact. Experiential tourism and educational tourism provide unique learning opportunities, while medical tourism caters to health-conscious travelers. Social media marketing and community-based tourism foster authentic connections with local communities. Cultural exchange programs promote cross-cultural understanding. Wellness tourism and religious tourism cater to specific niche markets, offering spiritual and rejuvenating experiences. Immersive technologies, such as virtual reality and tourist guides, bring history to life. Rural tourism and urban tourism offer diverse experiences, appealing to various travel preferences. Tourism policies and online booking platforms shape the industry, ensuring efficient and accessible travel experiences.

Ongoing trends include the integration of technology and the emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism practices. The market continues to unfold, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

How is this Cultural Tourism Industry segmented?

The cultural tourism industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Domestic cultural tourism
  International cultural tourism


Service

  Cultural eco-tourism
  Indigenous cultural tourism
  Socio-cultural tourism


Application

  Leisure
  Religious pilgrimage
  Education
  Research


Traveler Type

  Solo Travelers
  Group Travelers
  Families


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The domestic cultural tourism segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic the market, domestic tourism is experiencing a significant surge, fueled by the quest for genuine experiences, technological innovations, and government incentives promoting local heritage. Mobile applications serve as essential tools, granting travelers instant access to detailed guides, maps, and cultural information for their destinations. This convenience and ease of use enhance the planning and navigation process for cultural tours. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications have gained popularity, offering immersive experiences that enable u

In 2024, the number of domestic trips undertaken in Japan amounted to approximately ****** million, increasing considerably compared to the previous year. However, the value was still below pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. Most popular travel destinations The most visited prefectures by Japanese travelers are primarily regions surrounding large metropolises and well-known tourist attractions, with Tokyo prefecture heading the ranking. The capital city is a major destination of business-related travels, being home to large multinational corporations. At the same time, more than **** of Japanese visitors were traveling to Tokyo for the purpose of leisure and sightseeing in 2023. While the city center draws in travelers with its bustling city life, mountainous regions on the outskirts are popular for nature sightseeing and outdoor activities. What do tourists want to do? The leading goals of domestic tourists in Japan were relaxed leisure activities, such as nature and scenery sightseeing or bathing in a hot spring ("onsen"). A tourist hotspot known for its scenic view surrounds the active stratovolcano Mt. Fuji, which is a national symbol of Japan. The highest mountain on the archipelago attracts more than ******* mountaineers to its peak yearly. It is popular among leisure tourists, who want to relax in the famous hot springs of Hakone town at the border of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

How big is the Medical Tourism Market? The Medical Tourism Market size is expected to reach USD 84.92 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 23.03% to reach USD 239.37 billion by 2029.

   What is the current Medical Tourism Market size? 
   In 2024, the Medical Tourism Market size is expected to reach USD 84.92 billion.

   Who are the key players in Medical Tourism Market?
   Healthbase, Apollo Hospitals, KPJ Healthcare, Klinikum Medical Link and Medretreat are the major companies operating in the Medical Tourism Market. 

   Which is the fastest growing region in Medical Tourism Market? 
   Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2024-2029). 

   Which region has the biggest share in Medical Tourism Market? 
   In 2024, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Medical Tourism Market. 

   What years does this Medical Tourism Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023? 
   In 2023, the Medical Tourism Market size was estimated at USD 65.36 billion. The report covers the Medical Tourism Market historical market size for years: 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the Medical Tourism Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.

   What is the dominant segment contributing to the largest market share in Medical Tourism? 
   Cosmetic Treatment is the dominant segment that holds the major share of the Medical Tourism Market.

   The Global Medical Tourism Market Report provides a comprehensive industry analysis of the medical tourism market, segmented by treatment type and geography. The market overview highlights the various treatment types including cosmetic, dental, cardiovascular, orthopedics, bariatric, fertility, ophthalmic, and other treatments. The industry statistics indicate significant market growth driven by the increasing demand for affordable and high-quality medical care.<br><br>In terms of market segmentation, the report covers North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and South America, providing a detailed market forecast for each region. The industry size and market value are presented in terms of USD, reflecting the market's economic impact. The market trends and growth rate are analyzed to provide insights into future market predictions.<br><br>The report also includes an industry outlook, focusing on key market leaders and their strategies. The market review highlights the competitive landscape and the role of both private and public healthcare service providers. Additionally, the report examines alternative treatment options and their market share.<br><br>For those seeking more detailed information, the report example and report pdf are available for further industry research. The market data and industry reports offer valuable insights for companies looking to understand the market dynamics and make informed decisions. The industry trends and market outlook provide a clear picture of the market's future direction.<br><br>Overall, the Global Medical Tourism Market Report is an essential resource for understanding the market's growth forecast and industry worth. It provides a thorough market analysis and industry information, making it a valuable tool for research companies and stakeholders in the medical tourism industry.

   Medical Tourism Also Known As: Patient Mobility, Transnational Healthcare, Therapeutic Tourism, Medical Vacation, Health Travel

   Medical Tourism Report Covers the Following Regions: NA, North America, North American, Northern America, Northern American, EU, Europe, European, APAC, Asia Pacific, Asian, MEA, Middle East and Africa, Middle Eastern and African, MENA, Middle East, Middle Eastern, SA, South America, South American

   Medical Tourism Report Covers the Following Countries: USA, United States, US, Canada, Mexican, Mexico, DE, Germany, German, UK, United Kingdom, FR, France, French, IT, Italy, Italian, ES, Spain, Spanish, China, Chinese, JP, Japan, Japanese, IN, India, Indian, AU, Australia, Australian, KR, South Korea, South Korean, GCC, Gulf Cooperation Council, ZA, South Africa, South African, BR, Brazil, Brazilian, AR, Argentina, Argentine

The global film tourism industry is expected to grow from USD 66.2 billion in 2025 to USD 145.9 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 8.2%. Key factors driving the market growth include growing fan base of famous characters, up-surge in streaming platforms, and the increasing popularity of blockbuster franchises.

Attribute	Details
Current Market Size (2024)	USD 61.1 Billion
Estimated Market Size (2025)	USD 66.2 Billion
Projected Market Size (2035)	USD 145.9 Billion
Value CAGR (2025 to 2035)	8.2%
Current Market Size (2024)	USD 61.1 Billion

Movie Enthusiasts Drive Revenue Generation in Film Tourism

Countries	Domestic Film Tourists (%)
United States	USA: 55%
United Kingdom	UK: 50%
France	France: 60%
Japan	Japan: 70%
South Korea	S. Korea: 65%
Australia	Australia: 55%
New Zealand	N. Zealand: 40%
Spain	Spain: 50%
Canada	Canada: 58%
Italy	Italy: 53%

Countries	International Film Tourists (%)
United States	USA: 45%
United Kingdom	UK: 50%
France	France: 40%
Japan	Japan: 30%
South Korea	S. Korea: 35%
Australia	Australia: 45%
New Zealand	N. Zealand: 60%
Spain	Spain: 50%
Canada	Canada: 42%
Italy	Italy: 47%

Contributing a staggering 1.3 trillion U.S. dollars to China’s GDP in 2023, the travel and tourism industry proved to be a vital industry for the East Asian country’s economy. This pivotal industry provided huge GDP contributions to a number of countries across the Asia-Pacific region. Japan and India both saw impressive figures, while Southeast Asia alone has experienced constant GDP increases from the travel and tourism industry. Why Asia-Pacific The travel and tourism industry has made significant monetary additions to many developing economies throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Southeast Asia stands in the foreground as one of the regions which relies heavily on its tourism success. A success which could be inferred through the rising number of tourist arrivals to the ASEAN states. A likely reason why APAC has become one of the leading regions for tourism, could be related to its competitive prices. Many countries in the Asia-Pacific region are cheaper than the usual Western tourist hotspots, in this way, the region has begun to appeal to an increasing number of international travelers. Domestic tourism The Asia-Pacific region has not only attracted international tourists throughout recent years but has also received a great influx of domestic tourists. Growing economies in the region, resulting in an emerging middle class, have made the possibility of increased domestic travel a reality. Intra-regional tourism accounted for approximately half of APAC’s tourism.

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Sustainable Tourism Market Size 2025-2029

The sustainable tourism market size is forecast to increase by USD 508.3 billion at a CAGR of 11.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing number of eco-conscious travelers and the efforts of large tourism companies to adopt sustainable practices. According to recent studies, the global eco-tourism market is projected to reach new heights, with an estimated growth rate of substantial percentage year-over-year. This trend is being fueled by travelers' growing awareness of the environmental and social impact of their choices and their desire to minimize their carbon footprint. However, the market's growth is not without challenges. Developing countries, which often rely heavily on tourism revenues, face significant obstacles in implementing sustainable tourism policies due to limited resources and infrastructure. This creates a complex landscape for companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively. To succeed in this market, businesses must stay informed of the latest trends and be agile in their approach, adapting to changing consumer preferences and regulatory environments. By focusing on sustainable practices and innovative solutions, companies can differentiate themselves, build customer loyalty, and contribute positively to the communities and environments they serve.

What will be the Size of the Sustainable Tourism Market during the forecast period?

Request Free SampleThe market is experiencing significant growth as consumers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly travel options. This shift is driven by the depletion of forests and the loss of biodiversity, which have raised awareness about the environmental impact of traditional tourism. Sustainable tourism, which includes soft tourism, ecotourism, and community tourism, is becoming an integral part of the tourism value chain. Phone booking and in-person booking platforms are facilitating this trend, allowing travelers to make eco-conscious choices. Cheesemans Ecology Safaris and G Adventures are among the companies leading the charge in sustainable tourism. Policies and regulations are also playing a role, as governments and industry bodies implement measures to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly practices. The tourism industry is responding to these trends by offering more green and eco-tourism options. Package travelers and independent travelers alike are seeking out experiences that align with their moral principles and respect the environment and local population. Indigenous cultures are also being integrated into tourism offerings, providing visitors with authentic and experiences. Eco-tourism is not just about minimizing negative impacts; it's about preserving wilderness areas and promoting sustainable practices. This approach benefits both the environment and the local communities, creating a and mutually beneficial relationship. The tour group market is also embracing sustainability, with more companies offering tours that prioritize eco-friendly practices and responsible travel. In the tourism industry, the focus on sustainability is a key trend that is here to stay. As the environment and local communities become increasingly important considerations for travelers, businesses that prioritize sustainability will be well-positioned to succeed.

How is this Sustainable Tourism Industry segmented?

The sustainable tourism industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. TypeDomesticInternationalChannelPhone bookingOnline bookingIn-person bookingGeographyEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKNorth AmericaUSCanadaAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth AmericaBrazilMiddle East and Africa

By Type Insights

The domestic segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.Sustainable tourism, a travel practice that prioritizes environmental stewardship and cultural sensitivity, has gained significant traction among domestic consumers in various regions. Millennials and Generation Z, driven by their environmental concerns and moral principles, are leading the charge towards eco-friendly travel options. Sustainable tourism encompasses a wide range of experiences, from mountain tourism and ecotourism to city breaks and instructional programs. Historical landmarks, galleries, museums, and cultural events serve as popular attractions, while eco-travel suppliers offer unique experiences in wildlife conservation, marine travel, and rural tourism. Local tourism organizations play a crucial role in implementing sustainable policies and regulations, ensuring animal welfare and community involvement. Urban tourism and solo travelers also contribute to the m

 In 2024, approximately *** million visitors from China arrived in the United States, representing a significant increase from the previous year. Before the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, around **** million arrivals were recorded for the year 2019. Tourism in the United States In 2024, the United States had more than ** million international visitors, where the majority of visitors to the United States came from the North American countries Canada and Mexico, with China being the fourth biggest source of Asian tourists, after India, Japan, and South Korea. However, in terms of travel spending in the United States, in 2023, Chinese tourists were estimated to have spent more than any other Asian country, explaining the increasingly important role played by Chinese tourists among other international tourists. Outbound tourism from China In the past decade, the number of outbound Chinese tourists has soared threefold, with the vast majority of trips being made for private purpose. The United States was one of the popular international travel destinations among Chinese a few years back, despite Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam still being very popular potentially due to the shorter distance to travel. Chinese tourists also became more willing to spend when they travel. The share of outbound tourism expenditure in China’s GDP exceeded *** percent for several years before the coronavirus pandemic.

World Art Tourism Market anticipated to grow from USD 54.7 billion within 2025 to USD 86.5 billion by 2035, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing demand for cultural enrichment, on-the-go gallery tours, and an upsurge of global heritage appreciation in a post-COVID-19 world.

Attribute	Details
Current Market Size (2024A)	USD 51.9 Billion
Estimated Market Size (2025E)	USD 54.7 Billion
Projected Market Size (2035F)	USD 86.5 Billion
Value CAGR (2025 to 2035)	5.2%
Market Share of Top Players (2024)	~35% - 40%

Museum Footprint: Top 10 Countries, 2025

Countries	Estimated Number of Museums (2025)
United States	35,000
China	19,000
Russia	13,000
Germany	10,200
France	9,300
Italy	8,000
Japan	7,500
India	6,200
Brazil	5,800
United Kingdom	5,300

Art Tourism Footprint: Top 10 Countries by Number of Art Tourism Tourists (2025)

Countries	Estimated Number of Art Tourism Tourists (2025)
United States	USD 15.2 million
France	USD 13.8 million
Italy	USD 11.9 million
Japan	USD 10.4 million
United Kingdom	USD 9.6 million
Germany	USD 8.9 million
China	USD 8.1 million
India	USD 7.4 million
Brazil	USD 6.3 million
South Korea	USD 5.8 million

In 2024, the total contribution of travel and tourism to the global gross domestic product (GDP) amounted to **** trillion U.S. dollars. This figure, which includes the direct, indirect, and induced impact of the global travel and tourism market, represented an increase in total contribution to GDP of *** percent over 2019. As forecast, the total contribution of the travel and tourism sector to the global GDP was expected to reach **** trillion U.S. dollars in 2025. Which countries record the highest travel and tourism contribution to GDP? GDP is the total value of all goods and services produced in a country in a year. It is considered an important indicator of a country's economic strength, and a positive change in GDP is a sign of economic growth. Both before and after the impact of COVID-19, the United States and China were by far the leading travel markets based on the total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP, followed by Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom. What are the most visited countries in the world? In 2023, France was the country with the highest number of international tourist arrivals worldwide, welcoming 100 million international visitors. While the United States reported the third-highest number of inbound tourist arrivals that year, it was the destination with the highest international tourism receipts worldwide, ranking ahead of Spain and the United Kingdom.

Tourist arrivals to the Philippines slowly picked up after significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. From roughly 1.48 million tourists in 2020, international visitor numbers rose to around 5.44 million in 2024. Despite the increase, this number remains much lower than the pre-pandemic level. State of inbound tourism in the Philippines  The tourism industry has shown significant improvements in the past three years, with flights returning to normal and tourists reviving their travel interests. Although domestic travelers continue to outnumber inbound ones, the number of international tourists in the Philippines has seen gradual growth recently. In 2023, tourism receipts also slightly surpassed the 2019 values. On average, international tourists in the Philippines stayed for about 11 nights in November 2023, spending less than 8,000 Philippine pesos daily. In 20234, more than a quarter of tourists arriving in the country came from South Korea, followed by those traveling from the United States and Japan. Airlines for international tourists  In 2023, most international passengers who traveled to the Philippines were carried by Philippine Airlines (PAL), which is the country’s flagship airline. The majority of visitors entered the country via Manila, followed by Cebu. Aside from PAL, international tourists also traveled through Cebu Pacific, which is a low-cost airline that offers both domestic and international flights.

In 2024, the average land price in Tokyo Prefecture stood at about **** million Japanese yen per square meter. The average land price is based on land price surveys conducted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism and prefectural governments in January and July each year.Average land prices in JapanAverage land prices in Japan showed an upward trend in recent years that was interrupted during the coronavirus pandemic. Partly due to the ongoing depopulation of many rural areas, land prices tend to be significantly higher in the more urban areas. Among all the prefectures in Japan, ***** had the highest average official land prices, followed by ***** and *****. The buildings with the highest commercial land prices in Japan were all located in the ************ as of 2024.The situation in TokyoWithin Tokyo, the wards Chiyoda, Chuo, Minato, Shibuya, and Shinjuku form the central business district, which is marked by particularly high rents and low vacancy rates. Among the 23 wards of the city, **** had the highest standard land price in 2024. The ward lies to the east of Tokyo Station and encompasses Ginza, which is one of the country’s most expensive shopping areas. Japan’s booming tourism industry, as well as rebuilding and redevelopment projects, have been some of the factors contributing to rising land prices in Tokyo’s commercial areas before the pandemic.

Japan’s transportation system relies heavily on railroad transportation for passenger transport, both in and between urban areas. While travel in the largest cities is covered by metros and other types of rolling stock, inter-city travel often features the "Shinkansen" high-speed trains (colloquially called bullet trains). In the fiscal year 2023, Japan Railways' Shinkansen high-speed trains carried around *** million passengers, increasing from *** million passengers in the preceding fiscal year. Today operated by the Japan Railways Group, the Japanese bullet train has been renowned worldwide for its reliability regarding speed, punctuality, and safety since its inauguration in 1964. What are the busiest Shinkansen lines? Currently, there are seven companies governing the Shinkansen railroad system as it branches out in seven different regions of Japan. From North to South, they include the Hokkaido Shinkansen, the Tohoku Shinkansen, the Joetsu Shinkansen, the Tokaido Shinkansen, the Hokuriku Shinkansen, the San’yo Shinkansen, and the Kyushu Shinkansen. The busiest Shinkansen line is by far the ******* Shinkansen, which covers the route between Tokyo and Osaka, Japan’s two largest metropolitan areas. During peak traffic times, ** or more trains depart in an hour on said route from Tokyo alone. Consumers prefer trains to planes The mode of transport of choice for long-distance domestic travel is hotly contested between the aviation and the railroad industry. During the past decade, consumers preferred train travel over plane travel, but the margin is not overwhelmingly large. The choice of transport most likely depends on the destination. Travelers going on super-long-distance travel, such as to Okinawa, situated at the southern end of Japan, or to Hokkaido, the northernmost inhabited island, may want or must rely on flights to quickly reach the target destination. Otherwise, for destinations to or close to urban areas on Japan’s main island, Honshu, the use of Shinkansen seems to prevail, despite the lower prices offered by (ultra-budget) flight providers. Reasons that explain these consumer preferences might be the high traffic density on major Shinkansen lines that allow passengers to be flexible with their travel time. The high comfort experienced on Shinkansen and the punctuality of bullet train travel might be other reasons.

In the fiscal year 2023, the number of passengers carried via railway transportation in Japan amounted to approximately ***** billion, increasing from around ***** billion in the previous year. Railroad transportation is Japan’s major mass transit system, encompassing local systems from trams to high-speed railway lines for long-distance travel, called "Shinkansen" or bullet trains. As rolling stock carries the most passengers, the railway is arguably the most important means of public transportation on the archipelago. The landscape of Japanese railway operators There are more than *** domestic railway operators, among which the Japan Railways (JR) Group companies originating from the state-owned Japan National Railway (JNR) are the largest. JNR evolved via breakup and privatization into six regional JR passenger companies and several other entities. Although four of the six passenger JR companies have undergone complete privatization, they are still regarded as a group distinct from public operators and private railways, which transport more passengers than JR. Competing with airlines: the Shinkansen The sophistication of the domestic railway network enables it to compete with other domestic transportation industries, such as aviation. Both airlines and Shinkansen promise swift long-distance travel. With around *** million passengers in fiscal 2023, Shinkansen passengers exceeded the total of passengers carried on domestic flights. Comparisons suggest that the Shinkansen has an advantage over airlines as long as their travel time is equal to or below the overall travel time needed for a respective flight, despite the competitive pricing by airlines.