SKYSCANNER REVEALS TRAVELLER REACTION FOLLOWING JAPAN BORDER UPDATE

• Following the news that the Japanese Government is easing travel restrictions from September 2022, Skyscanner saw an 18% increase in global searches 2022 travel there, with sustained volumes since the PCR testing removal announcement*
• Demand for travel to Japan is primarily from South Korean travellers - the top origin search country globally on Skyscanner - followed by travellers from Australia, UK and US**
• 21% increase in daily searches skyscanner.com.au over the weekend following the testing removal announcement, for return travel from Australia to Japan in the next 6 months
• October is currently the top searched month for Aussies looking at travel to Japan indicating their attentions are turning to months when some further restrictions ease
• The most popular searched destinations are Tokyo and Osaka for travel in 2022
• In 2019, Tokyo was the 4th most searched international destination on Skyscanner for Australian travellers***
• The cheapest month to fly to Japan from Australia is currently January 2023, with prices starting from $829 for direct, economy return flights to Tokyo from Australia

Skyscanner’s travel expert, Jarrod Kris, comments:

“Japan has always been a top destination for Aussie travellers and after over two years of travel restrictions, we’re currently seeing Tokyo trending in the top searched international destinations on Skyscanner.com.au for 2022. Travel restrictions easing are a key step towards travel fully re-opening and as we’ve seen in other countries, once restrictions like testing and protocols are eased further, this intent to travel turns into bookings. Clear, consistent information about the latest changes and travel requirements are key to unlocking traveller confidence.

“In our latest traveller sentiment survey, 39% of Australians said they are looking for a cultural experience from their next trip, and what better place to do this than the unique culture and experiences Japan has to offer.*****

“Travellers looking to plan travel to Japan will need to ensure they follow local Covid measures. Be sure to stock up on face masks, as there is an expectation these are to be worn, particularly in airports and crowded spaces. Social distancing is commonplace too, and expected where possible, including in restaurants, popular tourist attractions, and on public transport.

“Skyscanner is on hand to help Australians get back to overseas travel again with a dedicated Covid travel advice hub with the latest advice and travel tips. Setting up price alerts is also a great way of keeping an eye on deals to your favourite destinations. If you aren’t tied to certain dates, you can use our handy Cheapest Month search tool to find the best fares.”