Japan has been growing increasingly popular as a travel destination, with influential magazine Condé Nast Traveler placing it at number 1 on its list of “the best countries in the world” for two years running. Larger cities like Tokyo and Kyoto have been the focal point of this popularity, but demand is rising by the day for more genuine experiences, suggesting a growing need for tourism development in local regions of Japan. Enter WaWo Japan Travel, an agency that has long cooperated with local organizations to uncover Japan’s hidden gems, in addition to utilizing its bountiful experience providing tour arrangement services to overseas travel agencies. Applying its deep knowledge of local Japan, WaWo has begun selling original tours on its newly launched tour site “WaWo Japan Tours” (http://wawojapantours.com).

To promote sustainable tourism in Japan, Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director, President and Group CEO: Mitsuko Tottori) and Hoshino Resorts Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture; Representative Director: Yoshiharu Hoshino) are launching the “All-time Favorite vs. Hidden Gems” campaign. This initiative encourages visitors to discover lesser known destinations, helping to alleviate overtourism while supporting regional revitalization.

A range of new authentic travel experiences have launched in the Japanese prefecture of Shizuoka, showcasing the region’s rich culture, heritage and cuisine with highlights including exclusive Geisha performances and a tour that uncovers the top attractions of the western area of the prefecture via the retro Tenryu Hamanako Railroad.

SOWAKA Hotel is thrilled to introduce its newest dining masterpiece, Gion Loka, led by the esteemed executive Chef Takaaki Kato. Nestled within the luxurious confines of SOWAKA Hotel, Gion Loka promises an unparalleled dining experience that intertwines tradition, innovation, and exquisite flavours.

Banyan Group, an independent global hospitality leader, proudly announces the debut of its flagship Banyan Tree brand in Japan with the grand opening of Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama Ward. With 52 luxurious guest rooms, the renowned Banyan Tree Spa, the natural Onsen, and two distinctive dining experiences, the intimate retreat is the only hotel in Kyoto with a Noh stage

Pan Pacific Hotels Group debuts in Kyoto with the signing of a strategic partnership with Tokyu Hotels following the launch of BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel and HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel, both located in Shinjuku, Tokyo last year.