4 Reasons Why You Should Travel to Japan in 2022
Japan finally announced the long-awaited news that most travel restrictions will be scraped for tourists. It comes as the best news lately, with certain countries showing that 50% of the population wants to go to Japan as their next travel destination.
With that out of the way, travelers are considering a last-minute change of plans and coming to the country in the upcoming months.
But should you move fast and actually schedule a trip to Japan in 2022? The short answer is: yes.
The not-so-short answer - but still less than 3 minutes-long - is, well, hear us out.
Here are the 4 reasons why you should come to Japan now!
1) Fewer People in Busy Touristic Spots
Let’s be honest. The next few months are going to be a very special moment for tourism in Japan.
It’s not a secret that both the local industry and foreign travelers are excited about things going back to normal. But back in 2019, when corona was just a beer brand, tourism was peaking in Japan.
That means that popular attractions got very busy. Every day, every hour.
Kyoto was the one that suffered the most from crowds. This was not an uncommon sight before the pandemic:
Crowds crowds crowds
Waldo was probably there too
Not only does the enjoyment of the area gets hurt, but you can imagine how difficult - sometimes impossible - it is to take a beautiful photograph in those conditions.
Tourism will eventually peak again, but not in the short term. That means that international travelers that come to Japan now will enjoy a privilege that only we locals - lucky us! - have been enjoying:
These are all taken in the same area, in the same season. So yeah, now is definitely a great time to come!
2) The Yen is Week
The long story short is: economics.
The Japanese Yen is going through a historical low point, registering its lowest performance in the last 24 years.
With that devaluation, comes a higher purchasing power for foreign currencies. That means you, with your Singapore / US / Hong Kong Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds can enjoy the country with less.
While no one here majored in Economy, we have no idea if this situation will last. Heck, not even the people that know about this kind of thing have an idea!
But one thing is certain: it’s very good for you to spend your money now.
For a little context, here’s how much you needed to spend in 2019, and how much you need now in 2022:
It’s like a 20 to 30% discount on everything!
3) Everyone Wants To Welcome You
Think about it. Almost 3 years of a whole industry struggling because it can do its job right.
Yes, that struggle happened all around the world. No counting territories with complicated matters like wars, Japan is one the last countries to open its borders!
The climate here is pure excitement. The industry is celebrating like never before.
Hotels, restaurants, travel operators, yours truly photographers… everyone is in such a joyful mood. Everyone is eager to be able to do their jobs, welcome you, and show you a great time.
Now that’s the kind of climate we like!
4) Enjoy Autumn Foliage As You Should
Remember when we mentioned that popular spots won’t be as crowded? That’s the same for the autumn season.
Just like cherry blossom season, koyo (紅葉), or the viewing of autumn leaves is a big deal around here. And absolutely gorgeous.
Yes, some crowds are always expected in the most popular areas. After all, the Japanese people love to celebrate the seasons like this.
But just like we mentioned in our Reason Number 1, there will still be fewer people than what’s coming later in 2023.
As for the avoiding the local crowds, well, ask your fellow concierge. I’m sure they know a few secrets here and there to make sure you have the best time ;)
The kind of experience we want you to have VS the kind of experience you might have if you don’t talk to us
Later is Good, Now is Better
It’s not as if Japan won’t still be one of the coolest destinations in the world after 2022. But the current situation is a very special combination of factors that you should not miss.
And if you decide to come, why not have beautiful photographs taken by a professional photographer? If want to know more, check out our work here. Or just send us a message with anything you’d like to know.
We’re REALLY looking forward to hearing from you!