travel campaign japan 2023

‘Go To Travel’ explained

Part of a larger "Go To" campaign intended to restart the Japanese economy following the damage caused by the coronavirus , Go To Travel is a campaign by the national government that offers big discounts on travel inside Japan. Only residents of Japan (including foreign residents) are eligible to take advantage of the campaign.

What is Go To Travel?

A 35 percent discount on the total cost and
Coupons worth 15 percent of the total cost to be spent on other travel expenses during the trip

Is there an upper limit?

Yes, there is. The maximum discount that can be received for overnight trips is 13,000 yen per person and night, while the maximum amount of coupons that can be received is 7,000 yen per person and night. In other words, the upper limit applies to travel plans that cost more than 40,000 yen per person and night.

In case of daytrips , the travelers can receive a discount of up to 7,000 yen and coupons of up to 3,000 yen per trip.

Note that children are counted the same as adults. For example, a family of four with two kids can receive a discount of up to 52,000 yen (4 x 13,000 yen) and coupons of up to 28,000 yen (4 x 7,000 yen) on an overnight trip, even if the kids stay for free.

Furthermore, note that only up to seven nights per trip are covered by the campaign. On trips that are longer than eight days, travelers will not be able to profit from the campaign from the 8th night. Note that there is no limit on how many trips can be made during the campaign.

Who is eligible?

All residents of Japan, including foreign residents.

Can temporary visitors to Japan use the campaign?

No, only residents of Japan are eligible.

How long does the campaign last?

The campaign started in late July 2020, but was suspended in December 2020 due to rising coronavirus infection numbers. It is expected to resume once the infection numbers have decreased and continue until at least summer 2021.

Are there any other conditions for participating?

Yes, all participating travelers are requested to follow the "new travel etiquette" with regards to preventing the spread of the coronavirus on their trips. Please visit our page about coronavirus manners for more details.

What is covered?

Overnight stays at registered lodgings
Travel plans purchased through registered travel agents

A large majority of hotels and travel agents across the country are registered. Lists of registered businesses are available on the campaign's official website .

Are all regions of Japan covered?

All regions of Japan are covered by the campaign. There is a possibility for some areas to be temporarily excluded from the campaign depending on the spread of the virus.

Does the campaign also apply to transportation, activities, meals and shopping?

The discount applies only if they are part of a travel plan. For example, the discount cannot be applied to regular purchases of flights or rental cars ; however, it does apply if a flight or rental car is part of a travel package sold through a registered travel agent. Likewise, if an activity or meal is part of the travel package, the campaign applies.

What type of daytrips are eligible?

The campaign applies only to daytrip travel packages sold by registered travel agents. The packages have to include 1) transport starting and ending at the same place on the same day and 2) at least some form of travel service besides transport in the destination area, e.g. meals or activities. For example, it does not cover 1-day bus tours that do not include any activities at the destination.

There is no limit on how many trips you can make during the campaign period. However, there is a limit of seven nights per trip that can be covered, meaning that those traveling for more than eight days are not able to profit from the campaign from the 8th night.

How can I use it?

There are mainly two ways to profit from the campaign:

Book a stay at a registered hotel through the hotel, a travel agent or a reservation website that participates in the campaign.
Purchase a travel package through a registered travel agent.

At the time of your booking, you pay 65% of the total cost for the accommodation or package, while the 15% in coupons will be issued to you by the travel agent or hotel.

A list of registered hotels and travel agents can be found in Japanese on the campaign's official website . Many hotel reservation websites are also participating in the Go To Travel campaign, including Booking.com and Agoda .

How do I use the coupons?

Coupons can be used to make payments at registered stores and restaurants and for transportation and other travel services in the prefecture visited and surrounding prefectures during the day(s) of your trip. They cannot be refunded. A map showing registered businesses can be found on the campaign's official website .

Links and Resources

Go to travel.

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Japan will resume its domestic travel discount from January 10 2023

Japan residents can save up to 20 percent on transport and accommodation with the National Travel Discount Programme

Back in October, Japan introduced a nationwide travel subsidy programme for residents, with big discounts on transport and accommodation. The current edition of the National Travel Discount Programme is available across almost all prefectures until December 28 2022, with discounts of up to 40 percent on transport and accommodation.

Now, the Japan Tourism Agency has announced that the programme will be extended from January 10 2023 , but with reduced discounts. The revised programme offers discounts of up to 20 percent (a maximum of ¥5,000 per person per night) on transport and accommodation.

What are the new deals?

As of January 10, the programme will offer discounts on public transport and accommodation packages up to ¥5,000 per person per night . If you’re opting for a day trip , you can save up to ¥3,000 per person on transportation. The deal also comes with discount coupons worth up to ¥2,000 on weekdays and ¥1,000 on weekends and holidays , which you can redeem at local restaurants and other attractions. The current paper vouchers will be changed to digital coupons.

How to be eligible for the discount

Note that only those with residency status in Japan are eligible for the travel subsidy . Details regarding Covid-19 prevention measures, such as vaccination certificates and negative PCR test results, have yet to be announced for the revised programme.

The new campaign with reduced discounts starts from January 10 . The discount deals are limited, so the campaign in each prefecture will end when the capacity has been reached. For details and additional requirements, make sure to check each prefecture’s campaign website here . Note that most of the websites will only be updated in the next few days, so don’t worry if you see campaign-end dates stating December 28.

The easiest and fastest way to book your vacation is via travel booking sites Jalan and JTB . Their official campaign booking sites will be updated in the near future after details have been confirmed by each prefecture.

This article will be updated as soon as new information becomes available.

Japan to extend domestic travel subsidy program into 2023

Discount campaign aims to revive tourism after COVID hit

TOKYO -- The Japanese government will extend its national travel support program into next year, Tetsuo Saito, minister of land, infrastructure, transport and tourism, said on Friday, to stimulate tourism demand and help prop up the still-fragile economy, which is recovering from the COVID-19-induced slowdown.

The subsidy program, launched in October for residents of Japan, had previously been set to end in late December, but the government decided to extend it after the travel industry and prefectural governors requested the extension.

Japan visitors doubled to 500,000 in October after full reopening

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Japan to extend domestic travel subsidy program beyond April

Tourists from Taiwan pose for a photograph in Tokyo's Asakusa district in January. | REUTERS

The government is planning to extend a domestic travel subsidy program, initially slated to end in March, through the summer in hopes of bolstering the tourism industry’s post-pandemic recovery.

The discounts will also not be applicable to reservations that have already been made for travel from April. But once prefectures officially extend the program, travelers can make reservations with discounts.

“The budget allocated for the program has been carried over from the previous year and is expected to continue through the summer until it runs out,” said Kensuke Dogahana, who is in charge of the program at the tourism agency.

The discount rate will remain the same. Travelers can get a 20% discount maxing out at ¥5,000 per person per night for accommodation that is packaged with transportation. If travelers just book a hotel, the maximum discount will be ¥3,000 per person per night.

In addition, travelers will get ¥2,000 worth of vouchers per person per day if they travel on weekdays and ¥1,000 on weekends, which can be used at restaurants and for souvenirs.

The number of domestic overnight stays in 2022 was up around 43% from the previous year at 453.97 million, and only down roughly 24% compared to the pre-pandemic level in 2019. Most travelers were Japanese, with foreign guests only accounting for 3.7% of the total.

$Tourists from Taiwan pose for a photograph in Tokyo\'s Asakusa district in January. | REUTERS$

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Go To Travel Campaign Update! How It Works: A Basic Guide for Foreign Residents of Japan (July 2022)

The Go To Travel Campaign, launched on July 22, 2020, was promptly suspended only months later, on December 28. However, with the lifting of the quasi-state of emergency on March 21, 2022, there are hopes that the campaign will soon return. However, we still have yet to hear an official government announcement as of July 2022. As far as a Go To Travel revival goes, however, rather than put it into action all at once, the travel campaign will be seeing a more gradual start, beginning with the resumption of the Prefectural Residents' Discount program in March and the launch of a new travel subsidy, the Regional Block Discount. Many people have taken advantage of these during the long holiday in May, Golden Week. So, what exactly is the Go To Travel campaign? And when will it resume? What changes will take place? Also, what are the Prefectural Residents' Discount and Regional Block Discount programs all about? You've probably asked these questions yourself. In this article, we'll attempt to answer them! *Go To Travel renewal date still to be determined as of July 15, 2022. *Article based on information available as of July 15, 2022. main image：PIXTA

What is the Go To Travel Campaign?

Go to travel campaign renewal step one: prefectural residents' discounts, go to travel campaign renewal step two: regional block discounts, what we currently know about the pre-renewal go to travel campaign, vaccination and infection status in japan as of july 2022.

Go To Travel is a subsidy program initiated by the Japanese government to restore travel and promote tourism throughout Japan's various regions. The campaign's first phase began on July 22, 2020, and lasted until September 1, 2020. The second phase launched on October 1 of the same year, and caused quite a stir with the addition of Tokyo as an eligible region, after being excluded from phase one. The campaign, however, was promptly suspended by the end of the year in response to the fifth wave of Covid-19. Although an announcement on November 19, 2021, hinted at changes being made in preparation for the campaign's resumption, as of July 2022, there is still yet to be an official announcement of its start date. However, several steps have been implemented toward its revival. The Prefectural Residents' Discount, a regional travel subsidy implemented throughout each individual prefecture, was renewed in March of 2022. A new Block Discount has also been established, expanding the Prefectural Residents' Discount to regional blocks such as Tohoku, Kanto, and Kinki. The goal of these programs is to gradually take a 'soft landing approach' to curb infection rates. The movement is summarized below. Step-By-Step Plan Toward Go To Travel Campaign Renewal Step 1 Renewal of Prefectural Residents' Discount starting April 2022: For travel within the prefecture of residence and neighboring prefectures. Will resume sequentially for individual prefectures in areas where infection has been curbed. ↓ Step 2 Regional Block Discount starting April 2022: Until now, prefectural discounts have only applied to individual prefectures. This step will gradually expand that range to include 'regional blocks'. Regions will be divided into six blocks, including Hokkaido/Tohoku, Kanto, and Hokuriku Shinetsu/Chubu. ↓ Step 3 First half of July 2022 - Start of "National Travel Support" postponed: The country had been considering shifting from "Prefectural Residents' Discount" to a nationwide "National Travel Support" program to stimulate tourism demand, but this was postponed due to a rise in Covid cases. ↓ Step 4 Renewal of Go To Travel Campaign (*No official announcement as of July 2022) From the first half of July 2022, the country planned to commence its "National Travel Support" program (in Step 3) and see the completion of the "Prefectural Residents' Discount" for accommodation on July 14 (with check-out on July 15). Due to the recent rise in Covid cases, the Japan Tourism Agency decided to postpone the start of "National Travel Support" on July 14, opting to extend the "Prefectural Residents' Discount (Block Discount)" until August 31 (with check-out on September 1). However, the decision on whether to extend the period will be made on a prefecture-by-prefecture basis and officially announced. Prefectures that do not extend the program will suspend it at the current deadline of July 14 (for check-out on July 15).

The Prefectural Residents' Discount in step one of the step-by-step plan will be put into effect until the resumption of the Go To Travel campaign. It includes travel discounts within the user's prefecture of residence and neighboring prefectures. Prefectural Residents' Discount Summary: ・Discounts of up to 5,000 yen per person per night, up to 50% of the original price. The same applies to day trips. ・Discounts up to 2,000 yen per person/night provided for souvenir shops , restaurants, and public transportation. The same applies to day trips. ・To be eligible for prefectural discounts, a user must have had both vaccines or a negative PCR test (test not required for children under 12 accompanied by a guardian). ・Prefectural discounts for accommodations until May 31, 2022. Not applicable during Golden Week (April 29-May 8, 2022). As an example, if you stay at an inn for 10,000 yen per person per night, you'll receive a discount of 5,000 yen. If you apply additional discounts at a value of up to 2,000 yen, you can save as much as 7,000 yen. The above are the basic conditions set by the Japan Tourism Agency. However, specific details on the system and content, including discount rates and vaccination requirements, may vary by municipality. Please be sure to check your local government's official website for accurate information.

This program divides Japan into six regions. Discounts that were previously only available for travel within the same prefecture or neighboring prefectures will now apply to prefectures within the same regional block, which means a broader range of travel. The addition of applicable regions will be dependent on consent from each prefecture. For example, if Kanagawa Prefecture wants to attract Chiba residents, but does not obtain the consent of Chiba Prefecture , it will not be eligible for the Regional Block Discount. Application of Regional Block Discounts will be announced and commence according to each prefecture's ability to make adjustments. Regional Block Discount Summary: ・Regions are divided into the following six blocks. Please note that Yamanashi Prefecture is included in the Kanto Region, and Mie Prefecture is included in the Hokuriku Shinetsu/Chubu Region.

・Visitors residing outside the prefecture must meet vaccination requirements, such as having received up to three vaccinations, or receiving a negative PCR test. (Test not required for children under 12 if accompanied by a guardian). As with the Prefectural Residents' Discount, requirements such as vaccination status and other applicable conditions are determined by individual prefectures. Please visit the campaign homepage for each prefecture for more details. Note that for travel outside of the block, each municipality may have its own discount system, as well. Be sure to check the official website of each municipality for more information. For example, the city of Hakodate , Hokkaido, has its own ' Hakodate Wari,' a special discount that only applies to that city. Non-residents of Hakodate or other prefectures within that region may receive a 50% discount when spending a minimum of 3,000 yen per person per night at specified Hakodate accommodations (see terms and conditions for details).

Finally, although the exact renewal date is still to be determined, let's take a look at what we currently know about the New Go To Travel Campaign, as announced on November 19, 2021. Discount Rates: 30% discount on accommodation and day trips for domestic travel (including group travel) Max Discount: (per night) Accommodation plus transportation: up to 10,000 yen / Accommodation only: up to 7,000 yen Max Discount: (day trip) Up to 3,000 yen Regional Common Coupon: (per night) Weekdays: 3,000 yen / Holidays: 1,000 yen Health & Safety Measures: Implementation of Vaccine-Test Package (*) / Report when testing positive within 2 weeks after travel / Record of travel history behavior The Vaccine-Test Package

(*) The Vaccine-Test Package allows relaxed restrictions for travelers upon confirmation of either vaccination status or test results. ・Vaccination Status: Proof of receiving both vaccinations, with at least 14 days since the second vaccination. ・Test Results: Confirmation of negative test results of PCR test or rapid antigen test. Results are valid within 3 days from the sample collection date for PCR tests (or from the test date if the sample collection date is unknown), and within one day for rapid antigen tests.

Content including discount rates and regional coupons revised from previous Go To Travel Campaign.

According to government data , as of July 14, 2022, 82.0% (103,796,378 people) of the population have received their first dose of the new Covid-19 vaccination, 80.9% (102,432,324 people) have received their second, and 62.3% (78,845,744 people) have received their third. However, although the Ministry of Health , Labor and Welfare has encouraged vaccination throughout the municipalities, they have not declared vaccinations mandatory for children in Japan due to evidence regarding preventive effects in children remaining uncertain. This is reflected in the numbers, showing 18.9% (1,402,011 children) have received their first vaccination, and 17.5% (1,299,419 children) have received their second.

After going through the preliminary steps of the Prefectural Residents' Discount and Regional Block Discounts, Japan may finally be able to proceed with the Go To Travel Campaign throughout the country. As of July 2022, the number of Covid cases in Japan has been increasing nationwide and is said to be in the seventh wave, and increased contact is expected to continue due to the summer vacation. There has been no official announcement from the government as to when the "Go To Travel" campaign will resume. Prime Minister Kishida announced at a press conference that the scope of coverage for the fourth vaccination will be expanded from the current 60 years and older to include healthcare workers and staff of elderly care facilities, and that vaccination will begin from the week of July 18 onward. He also stated that he is not considering any new restrictions on activities at this time, and that he intends to maintain a balance between socio-economic activities and mitigating the spread of infection. We can only hope that as people take advantage of these decentralized travel campaigns, each and every one will also continue to take thorough measurements to prevent the spread of the virus. *Article based on information available as of July 15, 2022. *Conditions and methods of use vary by prefecture. The information in this article may differ from actual information. Please check the Japan Tourism Agency and prefectural government websites for the latest information. *All photos for illustrative purposes only. Translated by: Krys Suzuki

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Japan to Continue Nationwide Travel Discount Program in 2023

Rashaad Jorden , Skift

November 25th, 2022 at 1:00 PM EST

The Japanese government announced on Friday i t’s planning to resume its domestic travel discount program in the new year .

Tourism Minister Tetsuo Saito said the government will decide when exactly to relaunch the program, which was initially expected to conclude on December 28 , after monitoring Covid cases in the country. Participants in the program, a campaign the government hopes will resurrect a tourism industry battered by the pandemic, are required to have received at least three Covid vaccine doses or test negative for the virus. The Japanese government relaunched the travel discount program in October after pausing it during the heart of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, discounts offered in the program will be reduced next year, with the discount rate to drop to 20 percent from the current 40 percent. The maximum discount amount available for travelers in tour packages, including public transportation services, will also decrease from $58 (8,000 yen) to $36 (5,000 yen).

Tags: coronavirus recovery , discounts , japan , tourism , travel recovery

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Domestic Travel Campaign

For residents of Japan ONLY.

last updated: April 8th, 2022

IMPORTANT : As of April 8, 2023 the All Japan Wide Discount campaign has suspended new registrations and is not available for guests who have not yet registered.

Hyogo Prefecture Travel Discount

Residents of Hyogo and other applicable prefectures who met certain requirements may qualify for the Hyogo Prefecture travel campaign discount: ひょうごを旅しようキャンペーン＋(プラス)

IMPORTANT : If non-qualified guests are traveling with un-qualified guests then qualified guests may still apply for discount, but ALL guests must meet the vaccination/COVID test requirements.

The following conditions apply for guests staying until October 10th, 2022 :

Guests staying must be residents of Hyogo, Osaka, Kyoto, Shiga, Wakayama, Nara, Tottori, Okayama, Tokushima or Kagawa prefectures.
Unvaccinated guests will still qualify if presenting a negative COVID test (see FAQ for details).
Guests who are family living with the accompanying travelers and are 11 or younger are excluded from COVID test requirement.
Must pre-register at the STAYNAVI web site all guest names & addresses.
Provide copies of the vaccine certificates for all applicable guests at check-in.
Provide all guest ID at check-in which verifies the addresses registered with STAYNAVI.

All Japan Wide Discount

Until June 30th, 2023 , a discount for residents of Japan only is available. The campaign in Hyogo prefecture (where Nishimuraya Honkan & Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei are located) is called ひょうご旅しようキャンペーン「ワイド」。Guests with residency in Japan will qualify for the discount if meeting the following conditions:

IMPORTANT : the discount is NOT available for the period of 29 April to 7 May , regardless of residency or other conditions.

Guests have been at least triple vaccinated or provide a negative qualifying corona virus test and provide proof (copy of vaccine certificate or applicable negative test result form) at check-in.
Guests have residency in Japan (Japanese address) and provide ID which shows address at check-in.
Children 11 or younger when traveling with family they reside together with are exempt from test requirements as long as at least one guardian/parent is vaccinated.

The Alll Japan Wide Campaign can be applied on a per-guest basis. Meaning, if the guest is travelling with others who do not qualify for the discount, then the qualifying guest may still receive the discount provided all above requirements are met. Please note that address and ID of all accompanying guests must be checked regardless of whether they qualify or not.

How to Book?

If you qualify for the discount, book any stay plan from our official web site on a qualifying date and provide us (through booking message or by emailing to [email protected]) with representative traveller name, address (including postal code) and contact telephone number. If any guests do not qualify please also provide the number of non-qualifying guests. We will perform the registration for discount on your behalf. Please bring all guest IDs (and if necessary vaccination certificates / negative test result) on check-in day.

Q: What is the Hyogo travel discount campaign? Officially called ひょうごを旅しよう (Hyogo wo tabi shiyou), it is a campaign to incentivize residents of Hyogo and other applicable prefectures to travel inside of Hyogo prefecture. Foreign residents living in Hyogo or applicable prefectures are eligible to enjoy this campaign. Foreign tourists visiting Japan are NOT applicable. NOTE: presently this campaign is suspended in favor of the All Japan Wide campaign.

Q: What is the All Japan Wide discount campaign? Officially called ひょうごを旅しようワイド (Hyogo wo tabi shiyou waido), it is a campaign to incentivize residents of Japan to travel inside of Hyogo prefecture. Foreign residents living in Hyogo or applicable prefectures are eligible to enjoy this campaign. Foreign tourists visiting Japan are NOT applicable.

Q: How much is the discount? Discount is calculated based on the per night total of lodging fees per traveler. The maximum discount is 3,000 JPY per person, per night is provided.

Additionally, a special coupon is provided which can be used at participating shops, etc. for a limited time. This is to encourage additional purchases both inside and outside of the hotel during travel. The amount of the coupon varies by the date you are staying.

Q: How do I make a reservation at Nishimuraya Honkan or Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei with this campaign? Book directly with Nishimuraya on either our web site, by e-mail, phone (English speaking staff available), or chat. In the booking message or in a separate email ([email protected]) please provide us with all guest names and addresses and indicate you wish to apply for the discount. Please also indicate if guests have been vaccinated, will test, etc. If your stay date is applicable and you meet all the requirements, Nishimuraya can register for the discount at on your behalf.

When reserving, please select “onsite payment” which is payment at the hotel. At checkout you will pay your lodging fees with the discount taken out. Nishimuraya accepts major credit cards and JPY cash for payment onsite.

Q: What are the vaccine requirements? All guests must provide proof of 3rd vaccination shot. There is no particular requirement for a certain time period to have passed after the third shot. 4th shot is also applicable.

Q: Which vaccines are eligible, and what constitutes proof of vaccination? COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in Japan are eligible. At present Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Novavax and Johnson & Johnson are approved. PLEASE NOTE the list of vaccines that eligibile for entry into Japan is differrent and not related to this campaign.

Paper originals or legible copies, legible photographs or electronic verification of vaccination status are acceptable and must be shown for all applicable guests at check-in time.

Q: There are unvaccinated travelers in my group, am I still eligible? All guests who are unvaccinated must show a negative PCR or quantitative antigen (こうげんていりょうけんさ/抗原定量検査) test result taken within 3 days of the check-in day to qualify for the campaign. Alterantively, a negative qualitative antigen test (こうげんていせいけんさ/抗原定性検査) taken the day of or one day before check-in is also acceptable.

NOTE: guests living in the same residence as the other guests who are 11 or younger are excempt from needing to provide a negative test result.

Q: Instead of vaccine proof some or all guests will provide a negative COVID test. What are the rest requirements? Three types of negative tests are valid… (1) PCR (2) Quantitative antigen test 抗原定量検査 (3) Qualitative antigen test 抗原定性検査

Tests (1) & (2) must be taken at latest 3 days before arrival. Test (3) must be taken at latest the day of or day before arrival.

The negative test result must be in paper and have this information included (written at least in Japanese): (1) Name of the guest reiving test 受験者氏名 (2) Negative result indicated 検査結果 (3) The type of the test 検査方法 (4) The testing location name 検査所名 (5) The date of the test 検体採取日 (6) The name of the administrator for the test 検査管理者氏名 (7) The valid period of the negative test certificate 有効期限

Q: What is acceptable ID to present at check-in time? All guests must provide valid identification that proves their residency in Hyogo prefecture or other applicable prefecture and matches the address registered. A zairyu card is usually sufficient for this but alternatives such as Japanese driver’s license, Japanese health insurance card, My Number card, etc. is also acceptable. For ID, please bring the original (not a copy).

Q: Are foreigners eligible for this campaign? Foreign residents of Hyogo prefecture and other applicable prefectures, irrespective of citizenship, may utilize campaign as long as they meet the other requirements (vaccine, etc). Foreign tourists visiting Japan are NOT applicable.

Q: I have more questions, where can I ask? Please contact us by e-mail with any specific questions: [email protected]

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2022 Domestic Travel Subsidy Program: Discounts for Residents in Japan!

Japan's Domestic Travel Subsidy Program, offering discounts of up to 11,000 yen per person, launched on October 11, 2022. This article gives an overview of the travel discount program, details on participating travel agencies and reservation sites, and prefectural websites! 　

Mitoyo, Kagawa, Japan

What Is Japan's Domestic Travel Subsidy Program?

2022 Domestic Travel Subsidy Program: Discounts for Residents in Japan!

Himeji Castle. Photo by Pixta The Domestic Travel Subsidy Program , aiming to stimulate Japan's tourism industry, launched in October 2022. Eligible travelers will be entitled to discounts up to a maximum of 11,000 yen each.

Due to the sudden flood of reservations, there is concern among those unable to make their bookings. However, a national budget of 560 billion yen has been allocated for this campaign. So, travelers can expect to benefit from the generous subsidies offered by this program.

This article will introduce Japan's Domestic Travel Subsidy Program with an outline and important things to keep in mind. MATCHA readers will learn details about participating travel agencies and reservation sites. There's also a list featuring each prefecture and its respective website!

Outline of the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program

What are the dates of this program.

The discount campaign runs from October 11 until December 20, 2022. Starting dates can differ slightly depending on the prefecture.

How Much Are the Travel Discounts?

Travelers will receive a 40% discount. The discount is capped at 8,000 yen per person per night for tours that include transportation and accommodation. The discount is capped at 5,000 yen per person per night for accommodations only.

Discount coupons can also be used in certain regions for restaurants and souvenirs. Additionally, there are 3,000 yen discounts for weekday accommodations and 1,000 yen discounts for accommodations on national holidays. These are available directly at the accommodation facility.

Important Points of the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program

The Great Buddha of Kamakura. Photo by Pixta

Here are some key things to keep in mind with this subsidy program.

Limited to Japanese Citizens and International Residents

The program's main criteria for eligibility is that applicants live in Japan. This applies to Japanese citizens and international residents. A driver's license, My Number card, or another form of identification is required to show proof of Japanese residency.

Unfortunately, the discount campaign is not available to international visitors but only to international residents of Japan.

Vaccine Passport (3 Shots) or a Negative PCR Test Required

Travelers who want to receive discounts on this campaign will need to present a vaccination certificate showing they've had three shots. Those who haven't received three vaccinations must provide a negative PCR test.

To receive an accommodation discount, please remember that all group members must present their vaccine passport (3 shots), not just the group representative.

How the Word "Holiday" Is Defined

The monetary amount of discount coupons differs depending on whether it's a weekday or a national holiday. Fundamentally, a "holiday" refers to a one-night, two-day stay on Saturdays and Sundays. In other words, a one-night, two-day stay on Friday-Saturday or Sunday-Monday will be considered a weekday accommodation.

Program Details Differ Depending on the Prefecture

Each prefecture in Japan is included in the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program, making it different from the Go To Travel Campaign launched in 2020.

This is why the details of the subsidy program differ in each prefecture. Some prefectures even offer original travel discounts―in addition to the 11,000 yen maximum subsidy offered by the national campaign.

Which Accommodation Facilities Offer Discounts?

Keep in mind that not all accommodation facilities and tours are part of the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program.

Please note that at the end of this article, there's a list of websites for each prefecture's subsidy campaign. This article also features information on tours.

We Recommend Making Reservations ASAP!

Presently, accommodation facilities have received a flood of reservations, prompting travel agencies and tour companies to shut down their website reservation sites temporarily.

However, the subsidy program is backed by a 560 billion yen budget. Although many places have stopped taking reservations, there's a good possibility that they will resume bookings in the near future. So, please keep checking back with them.

Discounts in Addition to the Travel Subsidy Program

Tokushima Prefecture's Iya Valley Gorge. Photo by Pixta

As previously mentioned, each prefecture's details concerning the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program will differ. Next, we'll introduce some of the prefectures offering original discounts in addition to the national subsidy program.

Tadaima Tokyo Plus (Japanese) is the website for accessing the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program in Tokyo. This can be used in conjunction with Motto TOKYO (Japanese), a discount service for travels in the greater Tokyo area for locals.

Motto TOKYO offers a 5,000 yen discount on one night's accommodation. With the national program, travelers can enjoy a maximum discount of up to 16,000 yen!

The start date for Motto TOKYO was October 20, 2022.

Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture's Shinshu Wari SPECIAL (Japanese) offers a 1,000 yen discount (500 yen coupon x 2) on transportation for a one-night stay per person. This will help keep transportation costs down when visiting spots within the prefecture.

Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture's Ima Nara Campaign 2022 (Japanese) offers discount coupons for souvenir shopping and other items at participating shops in the prefecture. 1,000 yen coupons are issued for national holidays, while 2,000 yen coupons are available for prefectural citizens.

Kochi Prefecture

In Kochi Prefecture, the Kochi Kanko Recovery Campaign (Japanese)―Kochi's original discount campaign―can be used with the Kochi Kanko Tokuwari Campaign (Japanese), the national program.

The Kochi Kanko Recovery Campaign offers travelers a 5,000 yen cashback on money spent on highway fees and public transportation.

Tokushima Prefecture

Tokushima Prefecture's Minnade! Tokushima Travel Wari (Japanese) is aimed at travel packages within the prefecture that include accommodation and travel fees. It plans on giving each person a maximum of 5,000 yen cashback in addition to the national campaign's benefits.

Which Travel Sites Deal With the Travel Subsidy Program?

With the Travel Subsidy Program, discounts can be received when making a reservation directly with the accommodation facility. Travelers can also make a booking via a hotel reservation site.

Below, we've listed the reservation sites that handle the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program.

Currently, some sites are temporarily not accepting bookings due to the flood of reservations. There might be additional important points to consider, so please consult the official websites for more details.

Rakuten Travel

Join a Tour for a Worry-Free Experience

Some people might feel that it's troublesome to check the terms and conditions of the subsidy program in different prefectures.

We recommend booking a tour through a travel agency at times like this! Below, we've listed tour companies that handle the subsidy program, so by all means, please take a look.

Yahoo! Travel

Kinki Nippon Tourist

Nippon Travel Agency

Official Websites for Participating Prefectures and Cities

The prefectures and their official websites for accessing the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program are listed below. Please use this as a reference when departing on your next trip.

Note: All of the websites are in Japanese. Some websites have links to English travel content but not to the subsidy program itself.

Use These Discounts to Enjoy Travels in Japan!

Rurikoin Temple in Kyoto. Photo by Pixta With the domestic COVID-19 situation gradually improving, many people in Japan are getting the travel bug.

In addition to the Domestic Travel Subsidy Program, several prefectures are offering their own unique travel discount services.

Please use these campaigns to save on expenses and fully enjoy your travels in Japan!

Main image: Tokushima Prefecture's Iya Valley Gorge. Photo by Pixta

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Japan go-to travel campaign | Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy Program

by Venese | Jun 1, 2022 | Japan Travel | 0 comments

Japan go-to travel campaign Featured Image

Have you heard of the Japan go-to travel campaign? Are you wondering how to use the latest Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy Program and want some inspiration for your next domestic travel?

Here is everything you need to know about Japan Domestic Subsidy Program and Japan Go-To Travel Campaign!

Table of Contents

Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy campaign overview

The Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy Program is a “nationwide tourism demand stimulation measure” that offers discounts on travel prices and grants regional vouchers.

Unlike GoTo Travel, which was a national collective initiative, the Japan Domestic Travel Subsity is organised on a prefecture-by-prefecture basis.

Therefore, the start date can also be after 11 October, starting with those prefectures that are ready.

The end date is also set for the end of December (most prefectures have set to end on 20 December), but it is up to each prefecture to decide whether or not to extend the date.

Please note that some of the contents may differ from prefecture to prefecture.

Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy campaign discounts

The discount is 40% off the price of a trip (maximum per person per night: 8,000 yen for overnight travel with transport, 5,000 yen for others).

Along with this, you will receive a regional voucher worth 3,000yen for weekday use and 1,000yen for holiday use. These regional vouchers can be used at restaurants and other local businesses in the travel destination.

For day trips, you can get 40% off with maximum 5,000 yen support per person, along with regional voucher for 3,000yen for weekdays and 1,000yen for weekends.

The discount is valid for up to seven consecutive nights per trip, with no limit on the number of times the campaign can be used.

Duration of Go-to Travel Campaign

The programme will be implemented from 11th October to 20th December 2022 (starting 20 October for Tokyo). After the new year, the decision on whether or not it will be continued will be based on the infection situation and demand trends.

Holiday vs Weekday

“Holiday” applies to overnight trips where both the day of the overnight stay and the following day are Saturday, Sunday or public holiday. Holidays for day trips are Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Other days are treated as ‘weekdays’.

What do I need to bring for Go-to Travel Campaign?

Japan go-to travel campaign What do I need to bring

In order to qualify for the discount, make sure to bring your identification documents such as a driver’s licence. You also need to present proof of three previous vaccinations (an image or a photocopy is acceptable) or a negative result of a PCR test or similar test is required.

How do I make a reservation for Go-to Travel Campaign?

Japan go-to travel campaign How do I make a reservation

To use the campaign and make a reservation, apply for a trip at a discount price through one of the following travel booking websites participating in the campaign, such as Rakuten Travel, a travel agency, or an accommodation facility.

Upon presentation of identification documents and proof of vaccination at the time of accommodation, the customer will receive a regional voucher.

Here are the websites where you can make reservations. Please note that this is subject to change. Please refer to the following websites for the most up-to-date information.

Jalan: https://www.jalan.net/ryoko-shien
Rakuten Travel: https://travel.rakuten.co.jp/special/zenkokuryokoshien/
Yahoo: https://travel.yahoo.co.jp/feature/zenkoku-ryoko-shien/
Ikkyu: https://www.ikyu.com/special/01/zenkoku-ryokoshien/
JTB: https://www.jtb.co.jp/kokunai/ryokoshien/webcoupon/
Rurupu: https://www.rurubu.travel/theme/gototravel/ryokoshien/
NTA: https://www.nta.co.jp/kokunai/special/ouen/ryokoshien/
JAL PAK: https://www.jal.co.jp/jp/ja/domtour/areatourism-cp/
HIS: https://www.his-j.com/kokunai/campaign/alljapan_plan/

Old vs New Go-to Travel Campaign

In the past, for Go-To Travel, half of the trip price was subsidised up to JPY 20,000 per person per night (35% travel discount + 15% common regional voucher), and the high discount limit made it popular with expensive accommodation.

It was also pointed out that tourist attractions were crowded on weekends and consecutive holidays. There were talks that the increased human traffic may have contributed to the spread of infection.

Because of these issues, even before taking office, Prime Minister Kishida had launched Go-To 2.0, an evolved approach to infectious disease control, and decided to utilise the vaccine and testing package. The new system was based on the premise of safety and security, with a difference in discount rates between holidays and weekdays to disperse travel demand.

The discount rate and maximum discount amount have also been reduced to avoid concentration on luxury accommodation, and discounts are more generous when using transport operators, to support the recovery of tourism demand from transport operators and rural areas.

5 Most popular holiday destinations in 2022

So now the question is, where should you go with the Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy?

You might want to make use of this discount to visit places that you haven’t had a chance to check out yet or discover places that you have never heard of. Maybe some places might have been a little out of your budget and now with the discount, you want to make use of this opportunity.

To help you figure out where to go, here are the 5 most popular holiday spots in 2021 to give you some inspiration for your domestic travel! The statics you can find here are taken from Rakuten Travel.

The first place was Nara prefecture travel became popular with + 235.6% compared to the previous year. In particular, the “Yoshino / Totsukawa / Tenkawa / Gojo area”, which is rich in nature and allows you to enjoy outdoor leisure activities that avoid dense mountains and rivers, increased by + 536.8% (about 6.4 times).

In addition, as a sacred place for the popular manga “Kimetsu no Yaiba”, “Katsuraki Nii Honoikazuchi Shrine <Fuefuki Shrine>” in Katsuragi City is a new tourist spot.

Nara Prefecture is the ancient centre of Japan and was the ancient capital of Heijokyo during the Nara period. Therefore, there are many buildings and Buddhist statues designated as national treasures and world cultural heritage, and there are various attractions.

The deer in Nara Park is also known nationwide. Some of the most spectacular spots are the Tanize Suspension Bridge and the Mitarai Valley, which are one of the longest in Japan.

Tokushima

Tokushima Prefecture is in second place with a year-on-year increase of 151.3%. By age group, the number of people in their 20s to 30s has increased to + 194.7% (about 2.9 times), and the demand for travel within the prefecture among young people is increasing.

Tokushima Prefecture is full of individuality, with more than a quarter of the 88 sacred sites “Shikoku 88 places” scattered throughout Shikoku, such as “Naruto Whirlpools” and “Awaodori Kaikan”. The highlights are complete.

If you climb the mountaintop from the 5th floor of the Awaodori Kaikan on the “Mt. If you want to experience a mysterious sight, we also recommend the “Abashi / Unkai Observatory”, which is more likely to appear in the early morning of March-April and October-December.

From the observatory, you can overlook Oboke and the Yoshino River, which are known for their beauty in the valley, when there is no sea of clouds.

Akita Prefecture is in third place with a year-on-year increase of 105.5%. By accommodation composition, “Children” travel increased the most at + 411.2% (about 5.1 times), and the number of nights for families increased.

Akita Prefecture has many important intangible folk cultural properties such as the Oga Peninsula’s quirky “Namahage” and the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku, the Kanto Festival.

Events that colour the four seasons are also famous, such as the “Kakukan Sakura Festival” in the spring, the “Omagari Fireworks (National Fireworks Festival)” in the summer, and the “Yokote Kamakura” in the winter.

At Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, the legend of Princess Tatsuko remains, and there is Gozanoishi Shrine, which is also known as a power spot, and is dotted with activities and sightseeing spots. In addition, Akita’s famous “Oyu Stone Circles” and “Isedōtai Site”, which are included in the “Hokkaido / Northeastern Jomon Archaeological Sites” are expected to be registered as World Cultural Heritage in July. Isedotai Seki) ”is also attracting attention.

Gunma Prefecture is in fourth place with a year-on-year increase of 98.2%. There are scenic spots such as “Oze”, “Fukiwari Waterfall” and “Tone River”, and it is an area where you can enjoy many high-quality hot springs such as “Kusatsu”, “Ikaho”, “Minakami” and “Shiman” as one of Japan’s leading hot spring kingdoms.

There are historical and railway fans’ must-see tourist spots such as the world heritage “Tomioka Thread Mill”, the “Megane Bridge” which is the site of the Abt system railway, and the “Watarase Valley Railway” where the trolley train runs, and it is one of the best power spots in the Kanto region.

There are many attractions such as the famous “Haruna Shrine”. In October 2020, leisure spots that make full use of the latest video technology, such as the experience-based edutainment facility “ENNICHI by 1 → 10 AQERU Maebashi,” were born.

Okinawa

The fifth place is Okinawa Prefecture (+ 95.3% compared to the previous year) where you can enjoy a tropical vacation with many spectacular beaches. Many hotels have plenty of sea activities and a variety of pools. In recent years, large resort hotels, villas, and condominium inns have opened one after another. Some luxury inns have private beaches and private pools.

The “Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium” is famous nationwide, including the Ryukyu Kingdom-related ruins such as the world heritage sites “Shuri Castle” and “Nakagusuku Castle Ruins”. “Mihama Town Resort American Village” is dotted with wall art and fashionable cafes that you will want to upload to SNS, so you can enjoy it in a different way. In addition, remote islands such as Miyakojima and Ishigakijima are not to be missed and are tourist attractions.

Japan go-to travel campaign 2020

Japan go-to What is the Japan go-to travel

The Japanese government has proposed a number of steps under the name of a nationwide ‘Go To’ campaign aimed at increasing travel within Japan and supporting local businesses in reaction to COVID-19’s unprecedented impact on tourism.

The Japan Go-To Travel Campaign began on July 22nd, 2020, and offers Japanese citizens and international residents discounts and subsidies of up to 50% on travel within Japan. Discounts are given in the form of subsidised lodging and ‘common coupons,’ which can be used at participating retailers, restaurants, and other locations.

Japan Go-To Travel Campaign is a travel campaign that aims to promote and encourage travel and tourism in Japan. Japan Go-To Travel is a government campaign that aims to increase the number of tourists visiting Japan by increasing awareness of the country through social media, such as Twitter and Instagram.

Japan’s Go-To Travel campaign was started in 2018 by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Japan with the aim of increasing tourist visits to Japan. The Japanese Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida announced in March 2022 that the government is planning to relaunch the “Go-To Travel” campaign “when the opportune moment comes.”

According to Kishida, the government is looking into the COVID-19 infection situation and meeting with specialists to determine when the campaign should resume. This page will be updated as soon as an announcement is made. Until then, we’ll go over the last COVID-19 campaign to see what’s in store for the months ahead.

From July 22nd, 2020, the government will cover up to half of the cost of accommodation and transportation for 1-day trips up to JPY10,000 per person and 2. overnight trips up to JPY20,000 per person. Trips of up to seven days in length had been covered. The amount you are entitled to on an overnight trip is based on the cost of your lodging, with a maximum claim of JPY20,000 per person. This is what that support looks like:

70% will be provided through reduced accommodation; 30% will be made available through the usage of ‘common vouchers.’

News on Japan Go-To Travel Campaign 2020

As of this, the Japan Go-To Travel Campaign will not proceed until the level of Corona is safe enough to travel with minimal spread. The tourism minister Tetsuo Saito stated, “We’re not at a point where we can announce a specific date for resuming the campaign, we’re in a situation where we should assume that the spread of (the coronavirus) will proceed rapidly.”

However, some travel companies and booking sites are considering resuming the Japan Japan Go-To Travel Campaign, and are planning to offer discounts for currently booked and newly booked vacations after the decision are made.

When it is agreed to restart the Japan Go-To Travel Campaign, for example, JTB and HIS will contact the target passengers individually via email, and if they agree to the participation criteria, the discount will be applied as is. Similarly, Rakuten Travel, Ikyu.com, and others have stated that the discount will be applied later without the need to rebook the trip.

How does the Japan Go-To Travel Campaign work?

Travellers can apply through participating travel agents, online reservation sites, and lodging companies. Up to 30% of the travel fee will be decreased, and a “regional common coupon” (3,000 yen on weekdays and 1,000 yen on holidays) will be issued that may be used at registered member stores of travel destinations, as well as the entire tourist destination.

For Go To travel, the “Regional Common Coupon” will provide 15% off the ticket price. Paper coupons and electronic coupons are the two types of coupons available. Each voucher is issued in 1,000 yen increments and cannot be changed. The method of distribution is determined by the operator who booked the trip.

What kinds of trips are eligible for the Japan Go-To Travel Campaign?

All sorts of trips from long weekends to day trips.

What does the Japan Go-To Travel Campaign cover?

The Go-To-Travel Campaign covers all forms of trips including accommodation, transportation, food and goods and services which include excursions.

How to use Japan Go-To Travel Campaign

The official Japan Go-To Travel information states that the campaign is available for all residents of Japan, both Japanese citizens and foreign residents with valid visas.

Overnight stays at registered lodgings, trip arrangements made through registered travel agencies are all eligible for discounts, and the vast majority of hotels and travel agents across the country are registered.

The official website of the Japan Go-To Travel campaign has a list of associated businesses. The campaign is active in all of Japan’s regions. Depending on the development of the virus, some places may be temporarily excluded from participating in the campaign. Only if they are part of a trip package are they eligible for the discount.

The discount, for example, cannot be used on standard purchases of flights or rental cars; however, it can be used on flights or rental cars that are part of a vacation package booked through an authorised travel agent.

How to apply for the Go-To Travel Campaign

In order to apply for the campaign, you have to reserve your desired trip through a campaign-registered hotel using the hotel, a travel agent, or a reservation website. On the other hand, you can purchase a vacation package from a registered travel agent.

You pay 65 percent of the total cost of the lodging or package at the time of booking, with the remaining 15 percent in coupons supplied by the travel agent or hotel.

On the campaign’s official website, a list of registered hotels and travel brokers may be seen in Japanese. Many hotel reservation companies, such as Booking.com and Agoda, are also participating in the Japan Go-To Travel campaign.

The discount is not only good for lodging, but also for overnight transportation such as a cruise ship, an overnight ferry, or a sleeper train, for which you might receive a discount. The campaign will pay for your transportation, meals, and activities if you choose to go on a day trip.

How to use Go To Travel Coupons

During the day(s) of your journey, coupons can be used to pay for goods and services at registered stores and restaurants, as well as transportation and other travel services in the prefecture visited and nearby prefectures. Please note that they are non-refundable. The campaign’s official website includes a list of registered businesses.

Coupons are issued in either paper or electronic form, depending on the issuing agent (to be used with a mobile device). Coupons are provided in 1000 yen increments, with the amount adjusted up or down to the closest 1000 yen (500 and more is rounded up; less than 500 is rounded down).

What do you think about the Japan go-to travel campaign? Hope you find this guide helpful to help you figure out exactly what is Japan go-to travel campaign, how to use it and some inspiration on where to go!

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Domestic travel subsidy program to continue beyond April

By SACHIKO MIWA/ Staff Writer

March 9, 2023 at 17:03 JST

The government plans to continue its taxpayer-funded subsidy program to promote domestic travel in April and beyond, despite indications that the tourism industry has already rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program is expected to wrap up as soon as the subsidies allotted to each prefectural government have been used up. But the discounts will likely be available until summer in many prefectures, according to officials with the Japan Tourism Agency.

The subsidies cannot be used for trips during the Golden Week holidays between late April and early May. Tours already booked for April and beyond are also ineligible for the subsidies.

But travelers who reserve trips after the announcement of the subsidy program by each prefectural government can receive discounts.

Up to 20 percent of a trip’s cost will be subsidized, the same as the current setup.

The discount is capped at 5,000 yen ($36) a night per person for tours that include transportation and accommodation. For day trips or accommodations only, the discount is a maximum 3,000 yen per person.

Travelers can also receive regional coupons worth a total of 2,000 yen for use on weekdays at restaurants and shops where they are visiting.

The coupon amount is 1,000 yen for trips on weekends and holidays.

The Japan Tourism Agency revealed its plan to extend the subsidy program beyond the current fiscal year at a March 8 meeting of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s Research Commission for the Establishment of a Tourism Oriented Nation.

The Japan Association of Travel Agents, an industry group, had pressed for an extension of the program.

“The tourism industry has yet to be firmly back on a self-sustained recovery path,” Hiroyuki Takahashi, chairman of the association, said at a news conference in January. “We are calling on the central government to continue with the support program until April and beyond.”

While many LDP lawmakers at the March 8 meeting hailed the agency’s plan, even some agency officials expressed doubts on whether the support program was still needed.

The number of domestic tours during the October-December period in 2022 topped the figure for the same period in 2019, before the novel coronavirus pandemic struck, according to the agency.

High demand during the last quarter of 2022 can be attributed to the government’s eased restrictions on movement, as well as the availability of the travel subsidy program during those months.

Although the travel campaign is funded with public money, many people say they cannot use it.

According to a December survey conducted by NLI Research Institute on lifestyle changes during the pandemic, only 20 percent of respondents said they have used the travel subsidies.

And more than 60 percent said they have not or do not plan to use the program. Of them, 30 percent said they could not financially afford to travel.

The survey showed that people with sufficient time and money are eager to take advantage of the travel subsidies. They include families with preschool or adult children, as well as households with annual incomes of 6 million yen or more.

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[LIVELY HOTELS] National Travel Discount Program 2023

Japan’s government’s “National Travel Discount” program to stimulate tourism demand is finally underway, starting January 10th 2023!

Here are some of the best deals and attractive plans available through the LIVELY HOTELS national travel support program. More eligible plans & discounts will be added soon, so stay tuned!

—– ◆ THE NATIONAL TRAVEL DISCOUNT PROGRAM IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO TO THOSE WITH RESIDENCY STATUS IN JAPAN AND DOES NOT EXTEND TO OVERSEAS VISITORS ARRIVING ON TOURIST VISAS . —–

What is the “National Travel Discount” program？

The “National Travel Discount” is a government program designed to stimulate tourism demand by offering discounts on transportation and accommodations throughout Japan.

The program has expanded from the previous “Prefectural Travel Discount” campaign to include all residents of Japan, regardless of their home prefecture. This includes long-term foreign nationals living in Japan with a properly registered home address.

Local vouchers of up to ¥2,000 per person per day are available for food expenses on weekdays, and vouchers of ¥1,000 per person per day available for food expenses on weekends.

To be eligible for the discount, travelers need to either be vaccinated with three shots or submit a negative PCR test. However, some prefectures may have different requirements for the number of shots needed.

Eligible Period: January 10th ~ March 31st, 2023

Here’s how to make a reservation at LIVELY HOTELS:

◆ Please note that proof of residence in Japan AND proof of 3 vaccinations or negative results will be required at check-in.

List of Eligible Locations

The lively tokyo azabujuban (tokyo).

Try one of our exclusive cocktails while looking at the Tokyo Tower at the hotel’s top-floor bar, featuring some of Japan’s most talented bartenders. Take advantage of the loft room with its own outdoor terrace or the exclusive theater room for a truly immersive home cinema experience.

Click here for the list of the eligible plans at this hotel

THE LIVELY OSAKA HONMACHI (Osaka)

Enjoy a petit luxury hotel stay at The Lively Osaka Honmachi, where you can enjoy authentic French cuisine in a casual setting. The special anniversary plan is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions!

THE LIVELY FUKUOKA HAKATA (Fukuoka)　

The Lively Fukuoka Hakata offers several ways to enjoy the charms of being in Japan’s lively port city. The Croffle breakfast plan includes popular Korean sweets breakfast along with some other delicious baked goods. Whether you visit just before boarding a flight or are in town for business or pleasure, this hotel is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

UNWIND HOTEL&BAR SAPPORO (Hokkaido)

Enjoy an experience that truly lives up to the wonder of Hokkaido’s snow country! Unwind is a lodge-like-themed hotel where you can discover local drinks and food in a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a plan with coupons that can be used at 10 great local restaurants that we recommend.

UNWIND HOTEL&BAR OTARU (Hokkaido)

Enjoy a unique European-style dining experience with seasonal fresh ingredients sourced locally. Choose from either a four-course dinner or high tea – both are accompanied by local wine as well. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere at Unwind Otaru, which is spread out over three floors and features historical decor.

SLASH KAWASAKI (Kanagawa)

Watch live concerts, games and sports at slash Kawasaki, the hotel that never sleeps. With every room equipped with its own projector screen, you can transform your space into a private movie theater at your fingertips! Don’t miss the famous “Infinite Popcorn” plan, which allows you to enjoy as many popcorn refills as you like!

ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA (Okinawa)

Enjoy a relaxing stay at ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA, a lifestyle hotel where travelers can meet locals and exchange ideas & travel tips. The Ryukyu Modern Italian Dinner plan includes two meals from our extraordinary Italian fusion menu combined with traditional Okinawa ingredients.

THE MILLENNIALS KYOTO (Kyoto)

Experience the future of capsule hotels with The Millennials and its world-famous “SmartPod” concept, a 3㎡ space with an alarm function that wakes you up with lighting and bed reclining. Enjoy a simple but delicious original breakfast plan and all of this in an inspiring & creative design lounge.

HOTEL GRAPHY GRAPHY (Tokyo)

Take in the sights and sounds of local downtown Tokyo on a bicycle tour. Enjoy the scenery of Ueno and Asakusa, along with Yanesen and Nezu, as you bike around northeast Tokyo. You can capture your memories with the instant camera provided at check-in.

THE MILLENNIALS SHIBUYA (Tokyo)

Experience both the hotel and the city at The Millennials Shibuya, where you can stay in our SmartPods, the future of accommodation. Designed to offer exceptional comfort, our SmartPods provide guests with high livability while remaining incredibly compact. IoT technology and entertainment features offer guests an unparalleled experience.

THE MILLENNIALS FUKUOKA (Fukuoka)

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Japan's 'Go To Travel' campaign to restart Jan. 2022 or later if virus meds progress

November 11, 2021 (Mainichi Japan)

Japanese version

TOKYO -- The Japanese government has decided it will restart "Go To Travel" domestic tourism subsidy program as early as January 2022, depending on the progress of certain COVID-19 medications.

Figures in the tourism industry and others who have been hit by the coronavirus crisis had sought an earlier campaign restart, but the government has decided it needs first to see if oral medications to prevent severe COVID-19 symptoms can be approved for use by the end of 2021. Proof of vaccination, negative tests and other documentation are also expected to be a part of the restarted campaign.

In the Go To Travel campaign, the government subsidizes a part of individual vacationers' travel costs. It began in July 2020, but was suspended in December of the same year when coronavirus infections surged.

At a nighttime press conference on Nov. 10, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said regarding the restart, "We will use vaccines and tests to create a safer and more secure system. I want to comprehensively review it, and decide on a time for it based on a thorough examination of the state of infections."

The government hopes to have the oral medication in use by the end of the year. Furthermore, booster vaccinations for older people will begin in earnest in January 2022. A government source said, "The important components for coronavirus infections countermeasures will come together (by the end of January)."

Some have pointed out that travelers tended to concentrate at major hotels and on weekends during last year's Go To Travel. In response, the government has decided the next round will include increased perks for weekday trips and stays at medium to small businesses' hotels and inns.

(Japanese original by Shiho Fujibuchi, Shun Kawaguchi and Soon Lee, Political News Department)

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Also in The Mainichi

Japan starts campaign to promote outbound travel

Japan has selected 24 countries and regions in Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific to receive priority promotion as tourist destinations in a newly-launched project to boost outbound tourism.

Run by the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA) and the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), the project aims to support the country’s airline and travel agencies, whose recovery has been slowed due to Japanese people’s hesitancy to resume international trips.

Only 694,000 Japanese people travelled overseas in March 2023, equating to 36 per cent of the number recorded in March 2019.

The JTA and JATA announced the list of recommended locations as part of a public promotion of their initiative to unveil the slogan Ima-koso! Kaigai , which means “now’s the time to go abroad”.

The 24 countries and regions are China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Canada, the US, Hawaii, Guam, Mexico, Spain, Finland, France, the UK, Germany, Italy, Turkey and Australia.

The official tourism bureaus of these destinations will collaborate with JTA and JATA to heighten the appeal of their offerings for the Japanese market, while Japan-based travel agencies are set to create more competitively priced packages aimed at younger people.

“We hope that this declaration will be a good opportunity for people to travel overseas,” said the JTA in a statement. “The appeal of overseas travel lies in spending invaluable time in breathtaking scenery, tasting authentic local cuisine and interacting with people from other countries.”

The campaign aims to “pave the way toward recovery in travellers during the summer holidays”, added JATA chairman Hiroyuki Takahashi.

JATA also announced it will open lottery applications on May 15 for Japanese people who acquire a 10-year passport and fly overseas between July 1 and September 30. Winners will receive 8,000 yen (US$59) in electronic money.

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Here's What's New in Japan for Travelers Planning a Trip in 2023

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

Brandon Presser

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 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; I’ve also authored three travel books about the country. 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. Never mind the flight of sushi shopped from the market earlier in the day; on Sundays and Mondays, Musashi retreats to his mountain hideaway to grow rice, farm wasabi root, and spin his potters wheel into compelling ceramics — all of which then find their place on his dinner table.

The theme of intentionality continues at Aman Kyoto, which opened just as COVID-19 was ripping across Asia; a sanctuary on the outskirts of the city with a tucked-away garden in Mount Hidari's forest, inspired by the ruins of Machu Picchu, but with distinct local flair. The perfect antidote to the touristic hustle of the country’s favorite temple town, the resort’s modus operandi is to encourage guests to completely slow down, whether that means soothing soaks in the geothermal onsen , riding bikes around the nearby temples (wondrous places of worship but with a fraction of the tourist traffic), or strolling through the property’s forest and sitting down in a quiet nook with a resident artist to paint the vivid sakura buds of spring or the deep red maples of koyo in the autumn.

Across the midrange and budget categories, it’s Hoshino Resorts , the legendary Japanese hospitality company, that’s making a concerted effort to be the custodian of local culture. Their KAI properties put playful twists on Japanese wellness, granting visitors entry into an arcane realm of traditions that extend far beyond soaking one’s body in hot water. Each KAI ryokan , or traditional Japanese inn, is grounded within its native destination, where dinners and breakfasts prioritize seafood, meat, vegetables, and even dishware from the local prefecture; and activities go as in depth as creating one’s own line of beauty products using geothermal water and local essential oils.

Hoshino’s OMO hotel brand focuses on urban destinations. At their property in the Sanjo district of Kyoto, for example, there’s a map of the neighborhood painted as a massive mural in the lobby, with restaurants and shops hand-picked by the staff painted in (each one has a QR code, too, so you can save them to explore). Their hour-long “Ranger Tours” match guests to employees for brief walkabouts around the hotel; mine highlighted unique souvenirs from shops dating back 300 to 400 years.

The Olympics spawned new accommodations across the entirety of Japan, not just in Tokyo.

Tokyo’s 2020 Olympics ambitions extended far beyond supercharging the city’s infrastructure; the strategy was nationwide. Of course, the Games ended up being a pale shadow of its intended self due to COVID-19, but plans to build new hotels all across the country had long been in motion already.

While the capital certainly had its fair share of openings — most notably the dazzling new Four Season Tokyo at Otemachi , and the party-prone Tokyo Edition, Toranomon (with its sister property, the Tokyo Edition, Ginza, opening up the street next year), Kyoto saw a huge number of hospitality heavy-hitters plant roots, too. Beyond the Aman Kyoto, the heart of the city now has a dozen new and notable addresses including the Ace Hotel , Hotel Ethnography , Marufukuro in the former Nintendo headquarters, and the standout Park Hyatt Kyoto , just steps away from Kiyomizu-dera. Do yourself a favor: even if you’re not calling the Park Hyatt home, it’s imperative that you stop by at sunset for cocktails at the small bar on the fourth floor — the views of Yasaka pagoda are as iconic as any Fuji photo.

Of all the hospitality stalwarts, it’s IHG — with over 50 years' presence in Japan — that’s making the biggest bet on the country's reopening tourism boom. First out the gate in 2020 was the Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora , a hybrid retreat that blends European comfort with Japanese wellness. Then the Kimpton Tokyo Shinjuku opened next to the Park Hyatt Tokyo with more approachable nightly rates; and without an initial influx of international travelers, the pet-friendly property became a haven for well-heeled Tokyoites and their pooches during the border closures. Two more Hotel Indigos opened in 2022 — one in the forested Karuizawa area, and one on the outskirts of Nagoya , and seven more properties are slated to open in the portfolio over the next couple of years, including another Hotel Indigo in Tokyo’s vital Shibuya neighborhood.

“Now, more than ever before, there’s a lot of support to get tourism out into the rural areas of Japan,” explains Rob O'Leary, Black Tomato ’s Japan travel expert. “The Kura project north of Tokyo is worth noting as a big sustainability effort to bring young Japanese back to the countryside and help renovate traditional properties for accommodation and internationally inclined tourism services.” Despite the downturn of the pandemic, the Japanese government continued a pipeline of fiscal aid to areas experiencing population drain. “We recently signed a pledge with the town of Ine on the Tango Peninsula (near Kyoto),” adds Tyler Palma, the head of operations for Inside Japan Tours . “The agreement ensures that the travelers [we bring to the region] will stay for a minimum of two nights, which will allow them to not only experience the culture and atmosphere, but give back to the local economy, thereby preserving a unique way of life.”

Kyushu is becoming the must-visit destination outside Tokyo and Kyoto.

With a spate of international travelers poised to plan their second (or third, or fourth) trip to Japan, Kyushu is eagerly positioning itself as the go-to destination for those wanting to venture a little deeper, beyond the well-trodden Tokyo-to-Kyoto circuit. The country’s third-largest island is the heartland of many of Japan’s most coveted touchstones: tonkotsu ramen ( Ippudo et al.) was born in Hakata; some of the finest beef is raised on the ranches of Miyazaki; shochu is distilled from barley and potato here; and it’s where Buddhism first arrived in the Japanese archipelago. Further, Yakushima Island is said to have inspired Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke, and there are more hot springs per capita here than anywhere else in the country, coaxed up from the below the Earth by some of the most active volcanoes on the planet.

A long-time favorite for Korean travelers, Kyushu is closer to Seoul than Tokyo as the crow flies, and it’s now catching the eye of major hospitality players. The InterContinental ANA Beppu Resort and Spa in Beppu is the island’s first legitimate international endeavor; Hoshino has recently opened an outpost of their KAI brand here as well; and there’s a Kengo Kuma-designed KAI up the mountain in the onsen town of Yufuin nearby. Both destinations are a part of Oita Prefecture, the perfect place in Kyushu to dip one’s toe, so to speak, if you only have three extra days to venture beyond Japan 101.

Next year, The Ritz-Carlton will open in Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, and the Shinkansen bullet train will continue to expand here as well, proffering speedier service to locales that have been traditionally more burdensome to reach. Check out Inside Japan Tours’ two-week self-guided Kyushu tour if you can devote more time to this worthy area.

Tokyo is finally getting more green space and pedestrian-friendly routes.

Perhaps another function of the outdoors-oriented pandemic narrative, Tokyo finally seems to have more walking arteries away from busy roads. With tiny, packed-together apartments, Tokyoites have always used shopping areas as proxy hangout spaces due to the dearth of parks relative to the sprawling size of their city. Recently, however, a handful of greener pastures (literally!) have cropped up, lined with cafes, shops, and public seating. Check out the buried metro track line in Shimokitazawa, stretching from Higashi Kitazawa station through the heart of the hip neighborhood and down to Setagaya Daita station. In Shibuya, Miyashita Park is breathing new life into a rather forlorn section of the neon-clad area. And now it’s incredibly easy to link Sensō-ji temple to the Tokyo Skytree along the newly redeveloped Mizumachi canal.

An interesting aberration of Tokyo’s shop-to-socialize culture is the creation of luxury brand cafes. Take home a piece of Fendi or Louis Vuitton at their branded eateries; a latte at the new glass snake of a building in Ginza will set you back 1,500 yen (around $12), a bargain for the brag and the Vuitton logo-ed paper napkin holder you can take home. (The coffee itself was so-so, but the geometric design on the foam was definitely worthy of the ‘gram.)

The crowds are already back.

If you’re rushing to make Japan travel plans (Japlans?) before the crowds descend on the country anew, I’m sorry to say: that ship has sailed. Kyoto’s temples are jam-packed, and reservations at must-try restaurants are already backlogged. Although mainland Chinese visitors — who made almost half of Japan’s tourism intake before the pandemic — have not yet returned, travelers from neighborhood nations like Korea and Taiwan are arriving in droves. Americans are back in full force, too, and domestic guests are moving around their country like never before thanks to a generous travel subsidy by the government putting up to 11,000 yen (around $80) a day in the pockets of roving Japanese nationals.

There’s a currency Catch-22.

In the 20 years that I’ve been visiting — or living —in Japan, I’ve never seen such a strong U.S. dollar relative to the Japanese yen. It’s made mealtime an absolute pleasure; dining in Japan has always been lower-priced and higher-quality than in Western countries, but now I find myself planning all-day eating excursions to hit up establishments that are no longer aspirationally priced, plus gorging on all of the incredible cheap eats in between. The catch, however, is that accommodation prices are soaring as hotels falsely inflate their rates for the inbound international travelers booking up their rooms. A luxury hotel room in Tokyo this month (Dec. 2022) might set you back $1,200 a night, or more, and staff at these hotels are still getting used to the onslaught of diverse demands again. Breakfast’s been a sore spot at many of the properties, with unmitigated lines, and long wait times for a cup of coffee. Kudos are owed to the Grand Hyatt Tokyo for crushing their buffet service — it's speedy, tasty, and has the best croissants in town.

Masking is still prevalent.

Endemic to Japanese society since SARS in the early 2000s, wearing a mask in public has long been a courtesy performed by those who are feeling unwell to protect people around them. Officially, mask-wearing mandates have completely relaxed, yet everyone is still wearing them all the time — even outside, even dozens of feet from the nearest person. Recently, I had to eat a meal wearing plastic gloves provided to me by the restaurant. The influx of foreign tourists will likely help normalize a more relaxed approach to masking (traveler-laden Kyoto already had noticeably less masks than some of the rural destinations I’ve visited).

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Russia-Ukraine war latest: Putin 'may launch all-out bid to seize second city' - as Western officials fear major Russian advance

Russia has launched fresh strikes on critical infrastructure - with Kyiv residents told to cut energy consumption every night for the rest of 2024. Meanwhile, Western officials reportedly fear a major Russian advance - amid concerns Vladimir Putin could launch an attempt to seize Kharkiv.

Saturday 13 April 2024 14:06, UK

Ukrainian defences 'at risk of collapse' as officials fear major Russian advance - and all-out assault to seize second city
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The big picture : Everything you need to know about the war this week
Your questions answered: Is it too late to save Ukraine?

While we haven't been able to bring you live updates today, we have been keeping an eye on what's been happening in the Ukraine conflict.

Here's a quick round-up of the key updates so far:

At least 10 people, including children, have been killed by shelling in a Russian-occupied town in Ukraine's southern Zaporizhzhia region, a local Kremlin-installed official said.

A Ukrainian rocket also struck a machine-building plant in Russian-occupied Luhansk in eastern Ukraine, injuring three civilians, according to Moscow-based official Vladimir Rogov.

Meanwhile, Russia has claimed to have taken a village in Ukraine's Donetsk region.

Russia's defence ministry said the capturing of Pervomaiske had improved its tactical position on the frontline.

Ukraine's army chief has also warned the situation on the eastern front had deteriorated in recent days, with Moscow's forces intensifying its armoured assaults.

Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said battles were still raging for control of a village west of the devastated Bakhmut - an area that has seen some of the bloodiest fighting throughout the war.

We'll be back tomorrow morning with more updates on the war in Ukraine.

Two Biden administration officials have revealed the extent of China's involvement in Russia's war on Ukraine.

The officials spoke to Reuters news agency and said China has massively increased its sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology to Moscow.

These items are important because Russia is using them to make tanks, aircraft, missiles and other weapons for the war.

They also said:

About 90% of Russia's microelectronics came from China
Nearly 70% of Russia's approximately $900m in machine tool imports in the last quarter of last year came from China
Chinese and Russian entities have been working together to make drones in Russia
China is helping Russia improve its satellite and other space-based capabilities for use in the war. This could increase the threat Russia poses across Europe

US President Joe Biden has previously raised concerns with Chinese President Xi Jinping about Beijing's indirect involvement in the war.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen returned this week from a visit to Beijing and said she had warned China that the Biden administration was prepared to sanction Chinese banks, companies and Beijing's leadership if they helped Russia's military in the war.

She has already been given the go-ahead from Mr Biden to sanction financial institutions that help Russia's military-industrial complex.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due to travel to China for talks next month.

Russia, increasingly isolated economically and diplomatically, has become more reliant on China in recent months.

One official said Chinese materials are helping Moscow undertake its "most ambitious defence expansion since the Soviet era and on a faster timeline than we believed possible early on in this conflict".

"Our view is that one of the most game-changing moves available to us at this time to support Ukraine is to persuade the PRC (China) to stop helping Russia reconstitute its military industrial base. Russia would struggle to sustain its war effort without PRC input," the official said.

Chinese Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu told Reuters that Beijing has not provided weapons to any party and that it is "not a producer of or party involved in the Ukraine crisis".

"We urge the US side to refrain from disparaging and scapegoating the normal relationship between China and Russia."

If Russia defeats Ukraine it will be a "turning point in history", former UK prime minister Boris Johnson says.

Writing in the Daily Mail, he criticised Western countries for not providing Ukraine with the weapons it needs to defeat Russia.

"Every week in which we fail to do the obvious — and give the Ukrainians the weapons they need — is a week in which Putin gets closer to his disgusting ambition, to torture a European country to death.

"Every day the pressure on the Ukrainians is growing — and yet the solution is within our grasp."

Mr Johnson, who visited Ukraine a number of times during his premiership, said: "A defeat for Ukraine would usher in a new era of fear in the whole Euro-Atlantic area, as Putin continues his drive to rebuild the Soviet empire: from the Baltics to Georgia to Moldova to Central Asia to the Arctic.

"It will be a terrifying moment for the people of Taiwan and the clearest possible signal to China that the West has lost the willpower to protect democracy.

"It will be a turning point in history, the moment when the West finally loses its post-war hegemony, the moment when borders everywhere are suddenly up for grabs and aggression is seen to pay — and all because of a failure to stand up for Ukraine."

Mr Johnson warned the world is "on a knife-edge, with a real risk that Western democracies are about to be humiliated, and autocracies emboldened around the world — because of our lassitude, our pathetic refusal to do what is necessary".

He said Ukraine is so short of shells that its troops sometimes have to wait under Russian bombardment because they can't fire back.

The shortage of air defences means Kharkiv, the second-largest city, is "in danger of being turned into another Mariupol", he added.

Ukrainians were able to intercept 90% of incoming strikes, he said, but now "we are starving them, for reasons I do not understand, of the protective shields they need".

Mr Johnson called on the US Congress to approve a $60bn military aid package earmarked for Ukraine and on the Germans to supply Taurus missiles.

The West - including Britain - needs to "snap out of our sleep-walk", he said, adding: "The simplest and most cost-effective way to defend freedom is to invest now in the defence of Ukraine."

Rescue workers in Ukraine have saved five puppies from under the debris of a destroyed building.

The non-residential building was on fire in the north-eastern city of Sumy, close to the border with Russia.

A video from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine showed the firefighters cuddling the squealing puppies and rinsing them off with water.

In a post of the emergency service's Telegram channel, officials said the "little ones" were not injured.

"This rescue story reminds us of the importance of human compassion and the willingness to help everyone, regardless of the circumstances," they added.

Ex-armed forces minister James Heappey has told Sky's defence and security editor Deborah Haynes the UK should consider sending its forces to Ukraine to train troops.

On the Sky News Daily, host Tom Cheshire talks to her and Sky's military analyst Professor Michael Clarke about the interview with Mr Heappey, who stepped down from his role last month.

They assess the bleak situation in Ukraine and why the conflict is at a critical stage. They also discuss how prepared the UK would be if it faced a war in the near future.

A former Ukrainian secret service employee has been injured in Moscow after a device under his car exploded.

Vasily Prozorov suffered leg injuries that are not considered life threatening after the device detonated as he tried to start his car, Radio Free Europe cited Russian media as saying.

According to RFE, Mr Prozorov worked for Ukraine's SBU until 2018.

The following year, he told media in Moscow that he had collaborated with Russia "for ideological reasons" from April 2014 until he left the SBU.

These photos show the damage to a thermal power plant in Kharkiv, eastern Ukraine.

A massive missile and drone attack destroyed and damaged a number of power plants across Ukraine overnight, part of a renewed Russian campaign targeting energy infrastructure.

The Trypilska plant, which was the biggest energy supplier for the Kyiv, Cherkasy and Zhytomyr regions, was struck numerous times, destroying the transformer, turbines and generators.

Vladimir Putin said the attacks were a response to Ukrainian strikes that targeted Russian oil refineries.

In Kharkiv, there were at least 10 other strikes on energy infrastructure, resulting in damage like that seen in these photos.

Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said more than 200,000 people in the region were without power.

Herman Halushchenko, its energy minister, said it was a "large scale, enormous, missile attack that affected our energy sector very badly".

More details have emerged about American Russell Bentley, who is missing in the Russian-controlled Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine.

Online news outlet Mash said he disappeared on 8 April after a district in the city of Donetsk was shelled by Ukrainian forces.

Mash cited his wife as saying he had gone to see if anyone needed help but had not returned.

Mr Bentley joined pro-Russian fighters in eastern Ukraine in 2014.

According to Russian news outlet RIA, he later swapped his gun for journalism and worked with state-run news outlet Sputnik.

In a 2022 Rolling Stone interview, he came across as a conspiracy theorist (he said the collapse of the World Trade Towers was a "pre-planned controlled demolition") and a fan of dictators (he described war crimes-accused former Libyan leader Muammar Gadhafi as "one of the greatest").

He became a citizen of the Donetsk People's Republic in 2017 and a citizen of Russia in 2020, said the interview, which was headlined The Bizarre Story Of How A Hardcore Texas Leftist Became A Frontline Putin Propagandist.

In words similar to those of Russia's president Vladimir Putin, Mr Bentley described the Ukrainian military as "genuine mass-murdering Nazis", also claiming their ranks were swelled by "thousands of ISIS cannibals" - claims that have been widely dismissed by commentators.

The Netherlands will provide Ukraine with an additional €1bn (£850m) in military support this year, and has earmarked three-times that amount for next year.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte delivered the news in a social media post.

The extra support in 2024 takes the total sum for this year to €3bn (£2.56bn), along with €400m (£340m) to support Ukraine's economy, Mr Rutte said.

"Ukraine must win this battle - for their and our safety," he said.

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IMAGES

Everything you need to know about Japan's Go to Travel campaign
Japan's Go to Travel Campaign: Save up to 50% on Domestic Travel
Best 6 Go to Travel Campaign Websites
Wendy Wu Tours Japan Brochure 2022-2023 (Australia) by Wendy Wu Tours
Japan 2022 & 2023 Brochure Launch
Japan Spring Photo Tour 2023 ⛩️ Sakura Cherry Blossom

VIDEO

7 September 2023 JAPAN 🇯🇵
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Japan Spring 2023 || Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchi, Kyoto, Osaka, Noboribetsu, Sapporo, Otaru
The people of Japan stand with Israel. #israel #japan 🇮🇱 🇯🇵

COMMENTS

Go To Travel explained
As of January 10, 2023, the Nationwide Travel Discount campaign provides residents of Japan with a 20% discount on travel expenses (used to be 35% under Go To Travel) with an upper limit of 5,000 yen for travel plans that contain transport services or 3,000 yen for other plans (used to be 14,000 yen for all plans under Go To Travel).
Japan's domestic travel discount program is back ...
Jan 10, 2023. Initially suspended during the year-end and New Year holiday season, Japan's domestic travel discount program was reinstated on Tuesday in hopes of giving a boost to the hospitality ...
Japan to resume its domestic travel discount from January 10 2023
Now, the Japan Tourism Agency has announced that the programme will be extended from January 10 2023, but with reduced discounts. The revised programme offers discounts of up to 20 percent (a ...
How to Apply for the Go To Travel Campaign
Coupons. - ¥3,000 (weekdays) - ¥1,000 (weekends) At the moment, what we expect for the new Go To Travel campaign is as follows; More discounts may be applied on weekdays than on weekends. It'll be required the vaccination certificate or certificate of the negative test result to apply for the campaign.
Japan to extend domestic travel subsidy program into 2023
Japan to extend domestic travel subsidy program into 2023. Discount campaign aims to revive tourism after COVID hit. The Japanese government has decided to extend a program of travel subsidies ...
Japan to extend domestic travel subsidy program beyond April
Mar 9, 2023. The government is planning to extend a domestic travel subsidy program, initially slated to end in March, through the summer in hopes of bolstering the tourism industry's post ...
FAQ About Travelling in Japan in 2023: We answered your questions!
Date published: 12 January 2023. After over two years of restrictions were imposed on international tourists traveling into Japan, officials finally announced the country's reopening on October 11, 2022. Having been crowned the best tourist destination in the world in the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2021, Japan is potentially one of ...
Go To Travel Campaign Update! How It Works: A Basic Guide ...
The Go To Travel Campaign, launched on July 22, 2020, was promptly suspended only months later, on December 28. However, with the lifting of the quasi-state of emergency on March 21, 2022, there are hopes that the campaign will soon return. However, we still have yet to hear an official government announcement as of July 2022. As far as a Go To Travel revival goes, however, rather than put it ...
"Open the Treasure of Japan" in 2023 and Beyond| JAPAN ...
Also in 2023, the Japan Tourism Agency is hosting the "Open the Treasure of Japan" campaign, a chance to explore Japan from any angle that fascinates you, through an incredible variety of different activities. Please read on to explore the many exciting cultural offerings that Japan has in store for 2023.
Japan to Continue Nationwide Travel Discount Program in 2023
Japan to Continue Nationwide Travel Discount Program in 2023. Rashaad Jorden, Skift. November 25th, 2022 at 1:00 PM EST. The Japanese government announced on Friday i t's planning to resume its ...
Nishimuraya & Kinosaki Onsen
All Japan Wide Discount . Until June 30th, 2023, a discount for residents of Japan only is available.The campaign in Hyogo prefecture (where Nishimuraya Honkan & Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei are located) is called ひょうご旅しようキャンペーン「ワイド」。 Guests with residency in Japan will qualify for the discount if meeting the following conditions:
2022 Domestic Travel Subsidy Program for Traveling in Japan
The Domestic Travel Subsidy Program, aiming to stimulate Japan's tourism industry, launched in October 2022. Eligible travelers will be entitled to discounts up to a maximum of 11,000 yen each. Due to the sudden flood of reservations, there is concern among those unable to make their bookings. However, a national budget of 560 billion yen has ...
Travel Japan
The official site of Japan National Tourism Organization is your ultimate Japan guide with tourist information for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido and other top Japan holiday destinations. We offer travel information to make your Japan travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
Japan Go-to Travel Campaign
Japan Domestic Travel Subsidy campaign discounts. The discount is 40% off the price of a trip (maximum per person per night: 8,000 yen for overnight travel with transport, 5,000 yen for others). Along with this, you will receive a regional voucher worth 3,000yen for weekday use and 1,000yen for holiday use.
Domestic travel subsidy program to continue beyond April
March 9, 2023 at 17:03 JST. ... The Japan Association of Travel Agents, an industry group, had pressed for an extension of the program. ... Although the travel campaign is funded with public money ...
What is Japan's New 'Go To Travel' Campaign
October 13 2022: Japan's new 'National Discount Program' is now underway, replacing the long-standing but long-suspending 'Go To Travel' campaign.The new campaign is nationally funded but locally administered, resulting in some early confusion with exactly how it works. Since activation of the program on October 11, many hotels in Japan are reporting online issues as websites and ...
[LIVELY HOTELS] National Travel Discount Program 2023
The "National Travel Discount" is a government program designed to stimulate tourism demand by offering discounts on transportation and accommodations throughout Japan. The program has expanded from the previous "Prefectural Travel Discount" campaign to include all residents of Japan, regardless of their home prefecture.
Destination Japan: here's what to look forward to in 2023
Tobu Railway has unveiled the new design and layout for SPACIA X that will begin operations on 15 July 2023. Running between Asakusa Station in Tokyo and Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, the new train will feature six seat variations, including the 'Cockpit Suite', designed with similar aesthetics to a private jet.
Japan's 'Go To Travel' campaign to restart Jan. 2022 or later if virus
The Go To Travel website. TOKYO -- The Japanese government has decided it will restart "Go To Travel" domestic tourism subsidy program as early as January 2022, depending on the progress of ...
Japan starts campaign to promote outbound travel
Japan hopes to encourage outbound travel to 24 countries and regions with the launch of a new campaign. Only 694,000 Japanese people travelled overseas in March 2023, equating to 36 per cent of the number recorded in March 2019. The JTA and JATA announced the list of recommended locations as part of a public promotion of their initiative to ...
Here's What's New in Japan for Travelers Planning a Trip in 2023
A luxury hotel room in Tokyo this month (Dec. 2022) might set you back $1,200 a night, or more, and staff at these hotels are still getting used to the onslaught of diverse demands again ...
Japan travel campaign to be extended
Japan will continue offering its domestic travel discount campaign in 2023. Japan's tourism minister said the campaign will extend into next year. Saito Tetsuo said the current program ends on ...
Travel Japan
Planning a Trip to Japan? Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp. Travel Japan - The Official Japan Guide ... None Autumn Leaves Forecast 2023. Discover Japan during the beautiful season of autumn leaves. None Go Beyond Japan's Major Cities: Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension in 2024. None Sakura and Beyond ...
Russia-Ukraine war latest: Putin 'may launch all-out bid to seize
Russia has launched fresh strikes on critical infrastructure - with Kyiv residents told to cut energy consumption every night for the rest of 2024. Meanwhile, Western officials reportedly fear a ...