Vietnam recorded 55,542 tourist arrivals from Japan in December, a significant month-on-month decrease of 15,472 visitors or 21.79 percent compared to November, according to Vietnam’s General Department of Tourism. Despite this decline, the total for 2024 stood at 711,464 arrivals, reflecting a 20.7 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Japanese tourists are among the most consistent contributors to Vietnam’s tourism sector, often favouring destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. They are drawn to cultural and historical sites such as Hoi An, Hue, and My Son Sanctuary, as well as Vietnam’s diverse culinary offerings, including street food and fine dining experiences.
Short-haul travel remains a preference for Japanese visitors, with many opting for tightly planned itineraries focusing on cultural exploration and shopping. Japanese travellers also demonstrate a growing interest in wellness tourism, particularly spa and relaxation packages offered in major cities and beach resorts.
The December decline may reflect seasonal travel trends and competition from domestic travel during Japan’s holiday season. However, Vietnam’s air connectivity with Japan remains robust, with airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, ANA, and VietJet Air offering frequent direct flights between major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Hanoi.
As Vietnam continues to strengthen its tourism appeal with tailored marketing campaigns and enhanced services for Japanese visitors, the sector is expected to maintain steady growth in the coming years.
See also: Vietnam’s Tourism Industry