Japan attracts millions of tourists every year who jet over to the Asian country to experience its food, attractions and sights.
But now, the popular destination has found itself tackling an unusual problem.
Tourists are reportedly leaving behind suitcases in airports and hotels, and the establishments are being ‘overwhelmed’ by the amount of luggage, according to The Mirror.
Recently, Japanese yen has weakened compared to the British pound and American dollar.
This has resulted in holidaymakers stocking up on treats, souvenirs and gifts while they’re in the country.
While in Japan, tourists seem to be purchasing larger suitcases to take everything home and leaving their original baggage.
Audrey Kohout described Japan as a ‘wonderful place for souvenir shopping’.
The co-CEO of Luggage Forward told The Mirror: ‘People are purchasing a huge amount and are upgrading to a bigger suitcase, as they didn’t plan ahead.’
Tourists are reportedly leaving behind suitcases in airports and hotels, and the establishments are being ‘overwhelmed’ by the amount of luggage (stock)
She explained how the country is a ‘souvenir destination’ but it isn’t easy to ‘throw something away’ there.
‘Abandoning it can be easier than throwing it away,’ Audrey added.
There is the added issue of language barriers preventing people from getting support, she said.
According to The Mirror, the Best Western Hotel Fino Osaka Shinsaibashi spent £1,400 on disposing abandoned suitcases last year.
It reportedly sees three or four suitcases left behind in bedrooms some days.
While Narita International Airport apparently had to deal with 1,000 abandoned cases last year.
Japan could see even more visitors jetting over in the future, as Expedia’s 2026 Destinations of the Year list was recently revealed.
Japan could see even more visitors jetting over in the future, as Expedia’s 2026 Destinations of the Year list was recently revealed
There has been a 71 per cent increase in searches for Okinawa, Japan.
From sumo wrestling in Japan to Muay Thai in Thailand, travellers – particularly Gen Z and Millennials (68 per cent) – are seeking front-row seats to learn about timeless traditions.
Meanwhile, there has been a 92 per cent increase in searches for Big Sky, Montana.
Italy has also seen a surge, with a 63 per cent increase in searches for Sardinia.
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Airports and hotels in Japan are ‘overwhelmed’ by tourists’ annoying bag habit
AloJapan.com