Goway Adds “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Packages to Japan Portfolio

Goway has expanded its Japan portfolio with new products in Kyushu and Shizuoka designed to combat overtourism in the region.

Travel to Japan is on the rise. Goway, which specializes in tailor-made travel, saw a 41% increase in bookings to the country in the last year alone, with an increasing number of travelers looking to explore beyond areas like Tokyo and Kyoto.

Speaking exclusively to Travel Market Report, Moira Smith, vice president of Asia at Goway, said the demand is being driven by a combination of factors:

“What’s driving Japan’s momentum right now is a perfect storm of factors: favorable exchange rates making Japan more accessible, increased awareness of regional destinations through social media, and frankly, travelers are craving authentic experiences after years of cookie-cutter tourism… the agents who can confidently recommend alternatives to the Tokyo-Kyoto circuit are the ones building stronger client relationships and repeat business.”

The tour operator has introduced new travel products in Kyushu and Shizuoka—two regions that offer an authentic Japanese cultural experience without the crowds of international travelers found elsewhere in the country.

“This is Japan at its best and without the crowds. Travelers should seek it out before it catches on,” said Smith.

In the southern island of Kyushu, Goway has introduced two products that showcase the region’s natural beauty, distinct cuisine, and unparalleled hot springs. The first, Highlights of Southern Japan: Undiscovered Kyushu, is a 10-day itinerary that explores the island by train, from Fukuoka to Beppu and Takachiho Gorge. The second, Japan Road Trip: Kyushu Edition, is a 15-day trip by rental car that takes travelers through Yakushima’s cedar forests to Miyazaki’s coastal cliffs.

“I recently visited Kyushu, and it delivered on every level,” said Smith. “This is an ideal place for everyone from first-time visitors to seasoned Japan travel veterans. It’s stunningly diverse, has gorgeous onsen experiences throughout, and some of the best food I’ve ever had the pleasure to enjoy.”

In Shizuoka, a smaller region between Tokyo and Osaka on the Pacific coast, Goway has added Essential Tokyo & Kyoto: The Fuji Coastline Route. This nine-day itinerary includes highlights from Tokyo’s dynamic culture, iconic landmarks in Kyoto, and breathtaking views of Mt Fuji from Suruga Bay.

“Shizuoka is an excellent option for first-timers going to Japan for a short stay,” said Brittany Banks, commercial manager for Asia at Goway. “It’s not as busy as Hakone and [it’s] easy to access as it’s on the bullet train line from Tokyo to Kyoto.”

Banks also added that the region offers a unique opportunity to view Japan’s famous cherry blossoms early: “It also lets you see the cherry blossoms before the massive crowds sweep over Japan. If you visit in February, you can see the blossoms in Kawazu town six weeks before the trees bloom on other parts of the mainland.”