Page last updated: 19 November 2024
Tokyo is a dynamic metropolis known for its blend of modernity and tradition, featuring shopping districts, serene temples, and vibrant nightlife.
How many tourists visit Tokyo each year?
Over 19.8 million international tourists visited Tokyo in 2023.1
- From 2011 to 2019, Tokyo experienced a continuous growth in international visitors, rising from 4.1 million to 15.18 million.
- International visitors dropped 83% due to the COVID-19 pandemic, declining to 2.52 million in 2020, and further decrease to 200,000 in 2021.
- In 2023, Tokyo’s recovery in international tourism was evident, with visitor numbers rising from 3.8 million in 2022 to 19.8 million, marking a 421% increase.
How many tourists visited Tokyo in 2023?
- 2023 marked a recovery year in terms of international tourism in Tokyo, with visitor numbers increase to 19.8 million in 2023, marking a remarkable 421% increase.
How much do tourists spend in Tokyo every year?
International travellers spent over ¥187,234 per capita during trips to Tokyo in 2023.
- 2016 marked a peak year, with tourist expenditure in Tokyo reaching ¥226,732 per individual.
- Coronavirus travel restrictions led to fewer international visitors with ¥15,140 in average expenditure per capita in 2020.
- Tokyo observed a slight recovery in 2021, with tourism expenditure reaching ¥20,460 per capita and this continued to rise in 2022 to ¥187,234.
- International tourist expenditure per capita increased to ¥212,000 in 2023, indicating a 1299% increase compared to 2020 (during the pandemic) and 72% higher than 2019 (pre-pandemic).
Which country visits Tokyo the most?
- The highest percentage of visitors to Tokyo came from South Korea (17.60%), accounting for nearly one-fifth of the total international visitors in 2022.
- Visitors from Taiwan comprised the second-largest group, representing a significant portion (14%). American tourists were the third-largest group, contributing over 10% of the total visitors.
- The top three countries (South Korea, Taiwan, and the U.S.) together account for 42.1% of all international visitors to Tokyo.
- The percentages show a diverse range of visitors from various regions, with significant representation from both Asian and Western countries.
Tokyo Tourism Statistics 2020 and 2021
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to an 83% drop in international visitors. A decrease from 15.18 million visitors in 2019 to 2.52 million visitors in 2020.
- The situation worsened in 2021, with only 200,000 visitors recorded, indicating ongoing travel restrictions and reduced tourism activity due to the pandemic.
How many domestic tourists visit Tokyo?
- Domestic visitors to Tokyo from 2004 to 2022 reveal a resilient trend, with steady growth leading to a peak in 2019 at 543.16 million visitors.2
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp decline in 2020 and 2021 to 337.05 million and 118.59 million visitors, respectively.
- Tokyo’s domestic tourism began to recover in 2022, reaching 542.67 million visitors, representing a significant recovery of 359%, nearly returning to pre-pandemic levels.
How popular is Tokyo as a tourist destination?
- In the Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Tokyo ranked first in 2021 and second in 2023 for “The Best Big City in the World”. 3
Why is Tokyo a popular tourist destination?
Tokyo is a top tourist destination because it offers a unique mix of tradition and modernity, attracting millions each year.
- Visitors love exploring ancient sites like Senso-ji Temple alongside high-tech areas like Akihabara, offering a rich cultural fusion.
- Tokyo’s renowned food scene, with more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else, delights food lovers, while anime and manga fans flock to the pop culture hubs.
- The city also offers diverse shopping options, from luxury in Ginza to unique fashion in Harajuku.
- With a safe environment, welcoming locals, and an efficient transportation system, Tokyo provides an accessible and unforgettable travel experience.
Japan Travel Resources
The best time to visit Tokyo
The best time to visit Tokyo is generally during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
- Spring (March to May)
- Cherry Blossom Season attracts many visitors for hanami (flower viewing) picnics in parks like Ueno and Sumida.
- During this period, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Cherry Blossom Season attracts many visitors for hanami (flower viewing) picnics in parks like Ueno and Sumida.
- Autumn (September to November)
- Fall Foliage showcases stunning autumn colours, with parks and gardens transforming into a palette of reds and golds.
- This season is perfect for momijigari (leaf viewing) and offers similar comfortable temperatures of around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)
- Fall Foliage showcases stunning autumn colours, with parks and gardens transforming into a palette of reds and golds.
Why do people visit Tokyo?
- 55.09% of visitors come for leisure and sightseeing (equivalent to 2.1 million visits in 2023).
- 23.08% (approximately 880,000 visits) of travellers visit Tokyo for business purposes.
- Visiting family and friends represents 11.59% of the total (about 442,000 visits), highlighting the city’s role in fostering personal connections.
- Additionally, 10.23% of visitors cite various other reasons for their visits, reflecting the diverse range of motivations beyond the primary categories.
What are Tokyo’s top tourist attractions?
- Shibuya attracts 132,000 international visitors in 2022 with its vibrant atmosphere and iconic Shibuya Crossing, a symbol of Tokyo’s bustling energy. Visitors enjoy trendy fashion boutiques, department stores, and a lively nightlife scene
- With 113,900 international visitors, Shinjuku offers modern skyscrapers, bustling shopping streets, and the serene Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
- Ginza is Tokyo’s upscale shopping and dining district. It features luxury boutiques, a historic Kabuki-za theatre, and renowned restaurants amidst sleek architecture that is visited by 112,500 international tourists.
- Tokyo Stations, including Marunouchi’s business district and Nihonbashi’s historic area, welcomed 102,120 international visitors.
- Asakusa attracts 94,880 international visitors with Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, and the bustling Nakamise shopping street. Visitors enjoy exploring historic sites, traditional festivals, and panoramic views of the district.
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