Top Travel Updates for Japan in 2025: What to Know Before You Go

An expert deep-dives into how the Land of the Rising Sun has changed over the last three years.

After living in Tokyo as a student and young professional, I’ve made visiting Japan a priority at least once a year since, deep-diving into new and interesting themes and destinations as the country continues to evolve both with and against the rising tide of globalization. I’ve written about everything from the secret world of “rotten girl” fan fiction manga to the far-flung village in Shikoku that’s become a cult attraction among Kengo Kuma architecture devotees. This time, I’ve been on a quest to discover everything that’s new and different now that Japan’s officially open for tourism once more. Here’s what I’ve found after a month of on-the-ground research:

Hotels Want to be More than Just a Place to Stay

They want to be your tour guide. Born from the ashes of the pandemic, hotels are leaning harder into diversifying their offerings. In Japan, hotels are upping the ante to become not just the place you hang your hat, but the lens through which you capture the destination.

Leading that trend in the luxury section is Aman, which has established a reputation for embedding itself so deep within its locales that it feels endemic. Aman Tokyo was the first Aman to take the recipe for sprawling resorts into the heart of a city; a sanctuary incorporating natural materials, a floor plan pastiche of the traditional Japanese house, and incredible views of the imperial gardens with — on a clear day — Mount Fuji just behind. During the quiet of the pandemic, the brand dug even deeper, creating a circuit of bespoke tours for guests to the nearby Nihonbashi district, where they connect with artisans who have been perpetuating precise, generations-old traditions like kimono making and chopstick whittling. At the in-house restaurant, Musashi by Aman, the eponymous chef Musashi takes diners on the most comprehensive culinary experience possible.

The theme of intentionality continues at Aman Kyoto, a sanctuary on the outskirts of the city with a tucked-away garden in Mount Hidari’s forest. Inspired by Machu Picchu yet offering distinct local flair, it encourages guests to slow down. Whether that means soothing soaks in the geothermal onsen, riding bikes around nearby temples, or engaging in quiet creative sessions with resident artists, the experience is uniquely restorative.

Across the midrange and budget categories, Hoshino Resorts, the legendary Japanese hospitality company, is dedicated to being a custodian of local culture. Their KAI properties offer immersive Japanese wellness experiences that extend far beyond the traditional hot spring culture.

New Accommodations Spawned by the Olympics

Tokyo’s 2020 Olympics ambitions extended far beyond supercharging the city’s infrastructure; the strategy was nationwide. While the Games ended up being vastly different due to COVID-19, plans to build new hotels across the country had long been in motion.

The capital certainly had its share of openings — most notably the dazzling new Four Seasons Tokyo at Otemachi and the vibrant Tokyo Edition, Toranomon. Kyoto also saw numerous hospitality heavy-hitters plant roots, including the Ace Hotel, Hotel Ethnography, and Park Hyatt Kyoto. You are spoiled for options when it comes to top-rated hotels in the region.

IHG, with over 50 years’ presence in Japan, is making a significant investment in the country’s reopening tourism boom. Their recent openings, such as Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora and Kimpton Tokyo Shinjuku, cater to both international travelers and local guests.

“Now, more than ever before, there’s substantial support to promote tourism in rural areas of Japan,” explains Rob O’Leary, Black Tomato’s Japan travel expert. The Kura project north of Tokyo aims to rejuvenate rural regions while preserving traditional accommodations.

Kyushu is Becoming the Must-Visit Destination Outside Tokyo and Kyoto

As international travel resumes, Kyushu is positioning itself as a premier destination for those seeking deeper explorations. The island is home to many renowned elements of Japanese culture, including tonkotsu ramen, Miyazaki beef, and a plethora of natural hot springs.

With the recent opening of the InterContinental ANA Beppu Resort and Spa and KAI properties, visitors can now explore Kyushu’s offerings effortlessly. The expansion of the Shinkansen bullet train will further enhance connectivity, making this region a worthwhile excursion for travelers.

Tokyo is Finally Getting More Green Space and Pedestrian-Friendly Routes

In response to the outdoor-oriented pandemic narrative, Tokyo has introduced new walking paths and green spaces that enhance the urban experience. Notable updates include the newly redeveloped Mizumachi canal, which connects significant cultural sites.

Moreover, luxury brand cafes provide unique dining experiences that intersect shopping and socializing in innovative ways.

The Crowds are Already Back

If you’re making Japan travel plans, be aware that crowds have already returned. Kyoto’s temples are bustling, and reservations at sought-after restaurants are in high demand. Although travelers from mainland China have not yet returned, visitors from neighboring countries are arriving in large numbers.

There’s a Currency Catch-22

With the U.S. dollar strong against the yen, dining in Japan offers exceptional value. However, accommodation prices are rising as hotels inflate rates for incoming international tourists. Consequently, a luxury hotel room in Tokyo might set you back $1,200 a night or more.

Masking is Still Prevalent

Mask wearing has long been a courtesy practiced in Japan, and despite the relaxation of official mandates, the public continues to wear masks frequently. The ongoing presence of foreign tourists may help normalize a more relaxed approach to masking, particularly in bustling areas.