Japan Overtakes the US for Aussie Travellers

Japan has surged ahead of the US as a top holiday destination for Australians, driven by strong air travel capacity and a favourable exchange rate. December travel data shows short-term visits to Japan rose 76% compared to 2019, while trips to the US declined due to rising costs. Although Indonesia and New Zealand remain the most popular spots, Japan has now secured third place for the first time.

Over the past year, international travel has rebounded significantly, with Australia recording all-time highs in outbound trips. Indonesia led with a record 1.67 million Australian visitors in 2024, followed by New Zealand with 1.36 million. Japan saw an impressive 772,270 Australian arrivals, a notable rise from 504,200 in 2019, highlighting its rising appeal.

Meanwhile, travel to the US has declined, with total Australian visitor numbers dropping to 734,660 from over a million five years ago. The UK also experienced lower figures, with 578,230 Australians visiting in 2024, compared to 616,930 before the pandemic. Rising costs are seen as a key factor in shifting travel preferences.

Despite record numbers of Australians heading overseas, inbound visitor numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels. Short-term international arrivals to Australia in December reached 945,280—about 87.7% of 2019 figures. New Zealand continues to be the largest source of visitors, followed by travellers from the UK, US, and China, although none have fully recovered to pre-COVID levels.

Looking ahead, Japan is expected to climb even higher in popularity as airlines maintain strong connections and marketing efforts target Australian travellers. While it may not surpass Indonesia or New Zealand, its upward trend suggests it will remain a key destination in the years to come.

Source: The Australian, AFTA, KarryOn, Asian Aviation, Breaking Travel News