Long synonymous with the cherry blossom season, Japan is witnessing a spike in travellers from India, with Cox & Kings saying that there is a 15% rise in Indian travellers to the destination. According to insights shared by Cox & Kings, demand for Japan travel between December and February has risen by 15% compared to last year, signalling the emergence of a second tourist peak.
Cox & Kings reports that Indian travellers are being drawn to Japan’s winter charms, with the nation’s elaborate light festivals proving popular, including iconic attractions like the Tokyo Midtown’s Illumination Walk and the expansive Nabana no Sato gardens are now widely shared online, creating high levels of anticipation among couples, families and younger travellers seeking atmospheric evening experiences.
The appeal extends far beyond lights. More Indians are leaning into Japan’s deep-rooted winter culture, where snow-covered landscapes, steaming open-air onsens, ski slopes, wildlife trails and quiet whitewashed villages offer a vivid contrast to India’s tropical climate. The blend of crisp winter air, soothing hot springs and hearty seasonal cuisine is resonating powerfully with those looking for immersive, sensory-rich escapes.
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“Japan in winter has a completely different soul,” said Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings. “From local food trails to cultural rituals and unhurried neighbourhood days, travellers want depth and winter is when Japan reveals its most authentic side. Already among the top choices for 2025, Japan’s growing winter appeal now makes it a truly all-season destination.”
Cox & Kings notes that Indians are also exploring cultural experiences beyond the famed cherry blossom season. Tea ceremonies in Kyoto, winter food walks in Osaka, kimono dressing workshops, traditional ryokan stays and hot-spring circuits around Hakone are gaining traction. Slow-travel preferences — such as cooking workshops, craft-based activities and stays within heritage districts like Kyoto’s Gion — have strengthened considerably over the past year.
Importantly, winter’s rising popularity is not replacing Japan’s springtime allure. Advance bookings for next year’s cherry blossom tours are already up by 10 per cent, indicating that the new winter rush is expanding the overall Japan travel calendar rather than shifting it.
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Japan is becoming one of the most desired destinations for Indian travellers, celebrated for its fleeting pink blooms and its serene, snow-draped landscapes and rich winter traditions.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
First Published: Dec 4, 2025 2:12 PM IST
AloJapan.com