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Japan May Tourism Down 3.6%; Chinese -60%, Middle East +68%

6/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In May 2026, Japan’s inbound tourist arrivals fell 3.6% year-on-year to 3.6 million.
Chinese arrivals fell 60% to 313,000, while South Korean and Taiwanese arrivals grew double digits.
Middle-East visitors rose 68% to over 39,000, setting a May record.
Rising airfares tied to the Iran-U.S. conflict contributed to the decline.
A U.S.–Iran peace deal planned for June 19, 2026 could ease airfare pressure.

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Story summary

In May 2026, Japan’s inbound tourist arrivals fell 3.6% year-on-year to 3.6 million.
Chinese arrivals fell 60% to 313,000, while South Korean and Taiwanese arrivals grew double digits.
Middle-East visitors rose 68% to over 39,000, setting a May record.
Rising airfares tied to the Iran-U.S. conflict contributed to the decline.
A U.S.–Iran peace deal planned for June 19, 2026 could ease airfare pressure.