Japan has FINALLY reopened to Aussie travellers
The day is finally here! Japan has reopened to Australian and New Zealand tour groups for the first time in nearly three years.
This milestone marks one of the final and most eagerly anticipated reopening’s for international travel.
Wendy Wu Tours, which carries the largest number of tourist groups to Japan from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, will be one of the first companies with tour groups allowed back into Japan today.
“This is fantastic news for the travel industry and for everyone that has had to delay and defer their Japan travel plans over the last three years,” the tour operator’s founder, Wendy Wu said.
“We have been working hand in hand with the Japanese Government and National Tourist Board to prepare for the reopening and so it’s so exciting to finally welcome back visitors and reignite Japan’s place on the global tourism stage.
“With passengers unable to travel to Japan for nearly three years, and missing out on the spectacular Japan spring cherry blossom festival, as well as the magnificent autumn foliage colours, demand, particularly for tours in March and April 2023, is quite literally ‘through the roof’, so much so that we’ve added extra capacity for 2023 and 2024, which is selling out as quickly as it goes on sale.”
As it stands, entry to Japan for international tourists will only be allowed on escorted tour groups, following a prearranged and set itinerary.
Pre-departure testing is required and must be within 72 hours from the sample collection date to the flight departure time, however, regardless of vaccination status, on arrival tests, quarantine, and other measures are not required.
Featured image: iStock/Boogich
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
japan Japanese Government National Tourist Board reopen wendy wu toursLatest News
ATIA safeguards members financial details ahead of FY24 accreditation-renewal period
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has its commitment to safeguarding the sensitive financial data of its members as preparations commence for the FY24 accreditation-renewal period. With members about to receive ATIA’s request for FY24 financials, ATIA has today provided members with an update on its robust privacy and data security measures. “ATIA takes its […]
Luna Park back in the hands of local owners after 20 years
That face may be iconic, but it doesn't stop it being scary AF.
Hong Kong hosts first-ever Leaders of Luxury
If you've visited HK, you'll know there's no shortage of lux shopping, but now they have the summit to match!
Philippines’ Department of Tourism launches its first dive experience
One to check out if you are a keen diver! See you under the water.
50 Degrees North unveils new tour maximising opportunities to see Northern Lights
We get the Australis Borealis down under, but the chances of catching it are akin to that of the Loch Ness Monster!
Spain becomes latest country to demand more information from tourists
What about the good old days where you could just travel around and lie about your identity? Or was that just us...
Telstra study shows that more than half of Aussies lack emergency plan
Apparently, screaming and praying doesn't count as a 'plan'.
TFE Hotels opens New Zealand Country Office
A big deal has been done across the ditch. We hope you read that in a Kiwi accent.
Qatar Airways ushers in F1 themed onboard offerings
Qatar's doing its best to give you the full Drive to Survive experience at 30,000 feet.
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon draws over 55,000 participants
Given our performance at the City to Surf this year, we're not going to be adding to the numbers at the next marathon.
Quantum of the Seas returns to Brisbane this summer packed full of family fun
It's all fun and games on Quantum... And food... And drink... And everything else your family is looking for!
Become a France expert with Atout France and win a dream weekend escape
Whether you are a fan of escargot, or prefer a pain au chocolate, this experience ticks all the boxes.
Accor takes out accommodation chain of the year for third consecutive year
That's a hatrick for Accor, something the Aussie cricket team will be hoping to avoid in the second match against India!
Existing investors pick up Hurtigruten for €500M
If we had a cool €500M laying around, a cruise line would be our investment of choice too.
Jetstar launches cyber Monday sale with Sydney to Byron from $35
If you're still sat at your desk and not on a flight to Byron, then what are you doing with your life?
The Aussie holiday hotspot where airline ticket fraud is 2.5x more likely
Double check that ticket before you click on the 'buy' button.
GALLERY: Travel industry gathers in Sydney for Moana 2 screening
We know this event certainly helped the mums and dads of the travel industry earn some brownie points.
G Adventures reveals 2025 ‘Where to Travel’ list
If you needed any inspo on where to travel in 2025, then this is the list for you!
Brand USA partners with Luxury Escapes, takes over Chadstone Store for Thanksgiving Event
Between Black Friday and all the Thanksgiving events, we're starting to feel very American.
Defying Convention to Deepen Connections: Booking.com’s 9 2025 travel predictions
Here at TW we appreciate this nod to the Wicked film. If you haven't seen it - run don't walk.
Collette’s Black Friday Deals Extended to 11th December!
Black Friday is no longer a day. It is an entire period.
nib Travel launches ‘Holiday Hustle’ agent incentive
'Tis the season to be rewarded. This is the type of Christmas gift we like.
Celestyal F1 Doha trip offers triple treat for travel advisors and destination managers
Seeing Piastri snatch third almost made us want to jump onboard again for the next race.
Celestyal Journey debut and F1 race mark busiest week in Qatar since 2022 World Cup
A feast of options for cruise, fight and motor racing fans. It's a hot destination - literally.
Turkish Airlines touches down at Sydney Airport
It's been years in the making, and unfortunately this planeload of travellers arrived on a rainy Sydney evening.
Qatar Airways has partnered with tennis star Novak Djokovic as wellness advisor
Is Novak the GOAT? It's up for debate, but his new deal with Qatar certainly isn't.
ACCC gives interim approval for Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways to launch 28 new flights to Doha
After having its bid rejected last year, Qatar, it appears, has had the last laugh.
NSW Tourism Association announces 2024 Awards winners
The NSW Tourism Association has announced the winners of the NSW Tourism Awards 2024 at a gala event at the Star Sydney. The evening celebrated the tourism and hospitality sectors in NSW, which are delivering world-class visitor experience that growing the NSW visitor economy. Winners were recognised with gold, silver, and bronze awards for their […]
Scoot announces Black Friday sale deals until 30 November
We hope you make rash decisions, because you've got a day-and-a-half to capitalise on this deal.
Tasting Australia announces Journey Beyond as its new presenting partner
Seems like enough of an excuse for a Friday afternoon bonding session at the Journey Beyond offices to us!
Tourism & Transport Forum survey finds 75% Aussies to travel this summer despite cost of living
Whether it's a few quiet nights or a smart yearly budget, there's not much keeping Aussies home over summer.
Events deliver $777 million in impact for Melbourne, Geelong and beyond
Events are big business in the State of Victoria!
South Korea is becoming one of Wendy Wu Tours’ most sought-after hotspots for 2025
If Wendy's calling it, we think it's a good idea to follow her lead.
Madame Tussauds Sydney honours the Irwin’s with new figures of Steve and Robert
When we saw this news, one thing came to mind. Crickey! That's a great Friday yarn.
Aviation’s answer to Shark Tank? Emirates hosts three-city pilot recruitment show
A great opportunity for anyone who knows they want to be a pilot. Not us, we will remain passenger princesses.
Cruise Month delivers best ever results, CLIA says
The proof appears to be in the pudding when it comes to Cruise Month... See you in October!