By Shawn Gallagher
It seems like every time you open Instagram or TikTok recently, you see your friends or other influencers on a trip to Japan. Why does this seem to be the case? Afterall, it’s not like Japan suddenly began existing this year.
Data shows the same story, though. Japan recorded over 2.8 million visitors in September of this year, about a 26% increase from the same month in 2019, which set a record for 31 million visitors in the year. The nation is on pace to beat that record this year, with a total of 26.9 million visitors as of September.
Weak Japanese Yen Pushes Tourist Spending
Since early 2022, the Japanese Yen has depreciated to a rate we haven’t seen since the 1980s. The USD/JPY spot rate as I write this today (November 8, 2024) is 152.54 yen for a dollar, and was even higher this past July, reaching 1 USD for 160.69 JPY.
A weak Japanese yen means visitors with US dollars can enjoy a very cheap travel experience. This, coupled with the post-pandemic travel boom has attracted the eyes of tourists to Japan.
For example, I was in Japan for a little this past summer. Filling my transit card with 1,000 yen cost me just $6.42. Even with today’s rate, a double cheeseburger meal at McDonald’s that goes for 700 yen will translate to just $4.59.
Everything from buying Shinkansen tickets to upscale dining and other tourist experiences can all be done at a cheaper price, so it’s a no-brainer for many travelers to put Japan on the list with the weak currency.
Related: Shinkansen Review, Japan’s Fastest Train From Tokyo To Northern Japan
Cheaper Hotel Prices
The weak Japanese yen also translates to cheaper hotel prices. Hotel accommodations take up a good chunk of a traveler’s budget, so it’s crucial to jump on deals and lower prices. This depreciation of the Japanese yen has been perfect for tourists; paying a large hotel bill in Japan with US dollars helps make them more affordable.
On top of that, hotels in Japan are cheaper to begin with compared to other nations. Although the country has seen an increase in room rates over the last couple of years, they’re still significantly more affordable compared to other developed economies.
I was able to book a stay at the Hyatt Place Kyoto for $93 a night earlier this year, which is a ridiculous rate. Although you won’t see $93 a night for every day, you can still find prices around $130-$150 on average. Some other accommodations, like APA hotels, are much cheaper, with rates around $50-$60 a night (if you’re ok with small rooms with only basic amenities).
Related: Hyatt Place Kyoto Review; The Best Of The Hyatt Place Brand!
Bottom Line
It’s a great time to travel to Japan, and we can see this through the record number of tourists visiting the country. If you want to visit, it may be best to begin planning the trip soon and take advantage of the weak Japanese yen.