Vietnamese arrivals in Japan set record high in 11 months of 2023
The number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan in the first 11 months of 2023 reached a new record 536,800, surpassing the previous record of 495,051 visitors achieved in 2019, according to statistics of the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO).
Vietnamese arrivals in Japan set record high in 11 months of 2023 (Photo: Flamingo Redtours)
Hanoi (VNA) ꦛ– The number of Vietnamesevisitors to Japan in the first 11 months of 2023 reached a new record 536,800, surpassing the previous record of 495,051 visitors achieved in 2019, according to statistics of the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO).
Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio said he is happy about the figure, released by the JNTO Vienam office on December 20. He noted that 2023 is a special year, when Vietnam and Japan mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomaticrelations. He went on to say that the bilateral relationship is at the highest level in all fields, including politics,economy, and culture. At the meeting between Vietnamese President Vo VanThuong and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida in last November, the two sidesagreed to elevate their relationship to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnershipfor peace and prosperity in Asia and the world”. He expressed his hope that the opportunity will start thegrowth of exchanges and travel between the two countries and further deepen therelationship between Japan and Vietnam. Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) Ha Van Sieu said that Japan is one of the top foreign destinations of Vietnamese holiday-makers while Vietnam is also popular among Japanese tourists. In the first 11 months of 2023, Vietnam welcomed nearly530,000 Japanese visitors. Yoshida Kenji, head ofJNTO representative office in Vietnam revealed that in 2024, the office willcarry out measures to increase the number of Japanese visitors to Vietnam. The office will also work with organisations and individuals in the industry to implement the JapaneseGovernment’s three new tourism strategies, including “sustainable tourismdevelopment”, “increase in tourism consumption” and “ regionalattraction” in order to promote tourist exchange between the twocountries./.
With efforts being made in recent times by the entire tourism industry to overcome the difficulties, the total number of international visitors to Vietnam has already far exceeded the 2023 annual plan. Of note, October was the fourth consecutive month Vietnam welcomed over 1 million foreign tourist arrivals.
Although Vietnam’s tourism has become more attractive and diverse after the COVID-19 pandemic, the country should do better in managing destinations, experts said.
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh has instructed the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MoCST) to coordinate with other ministries, agencies and localities to effectively implement policies and directives from the Party, Government, and Prime Minister on tourism development.
Da Nang's appeal stems from its numerous outstanding tourist attractions, particularly My Khe Beach, Sun World Ba Na Hills resort, and the ancient town of Hoi An. Additionally, Da Nang tourism is renowned for its affordability, especially attractive to young travellers and couples, according to Chosun Ilbo.
With new direct flights from major Indian cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, Vietnam is becoming an increasingly compelling destination for Indian tourists seeking a quick, emotionally rich four-day escape that blends luxury, culture, and natural wonder.
By source market, China continued to lead with 3.1 million visitors, equivalent to 25.5% of all foreign arrivals. The Republic of Korea followed with 2.5 million, or 20.7%. Other major markets included Taiwan (China) with 737,000, the US with 522,000, and Japan with 380,000.
Khanh Hoa has welcomed 16 international cruises so far this year, with more than 19,000 tourists disembarking to explore the province’s scenic landscapes and renowned cultural, religious, and artistic landmarks, as well as to enjoy local cuisine and sightseeing tours.
According to local plans, fireworks shows will be held at multiple locations, with Ha Long Bay as the focal point. More than mere entertainment, these displays are part of a strategic cultural tourism product aimed at strengthening the region’s brand.
Chatbot and virtual assistants support itinerary consultation and tour bookings, and provide around-the-clock response across multiple platforms while AI advertising applications have been used to optimise budgets and target the right customers. AI has been also employed to analyse customer data, enabling the delivery of personalised tour recommendations.
Many Vietnamese regions possess favourable conditions, including natural landscapes, climate, and rich cultural identities, to host sport events that integrate with cultural and tourism experiences.
Dubbed the “land of ancient towers”, Khanh Hoa boasts a rich Cham legacy through architectural masterpieces like the Po Nagar, Hoa Lai, Po Klong Garai, and Po Rome towers.
Vietnam’s e-visa system is now seen as one of the most efficient, convenient, and transparent in the region. Fully online registration, no paperwork or interviews, and fast and flexible processing time have improved foreigners’ entry experience, creating a competitive advantage over countries clinging to complicated and costly visa procedures.
Sunset Town unfolded like a living fairytale. Every street and hidden corner recalls iconic European landmarks – from Venice’s San Marco Bell Tower and Paris’s Arc de Triomphe to Almafi-style squares and cobblestone paths reminiscent of southern Italy.
Its natural advantages have made Mui Ne a magnet for enthusiasts of kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). These activities not only diversify the local tourism offerings but also contribute to the area’s long-term development strategy focused on sustainability.
In July alone, the city welcomed 695,930 international arrivals, surging 75.3% year-on-year. For the seven-month period, international visitors totalled 4.5 million, up 48% year-on-year.
Welcoming the crew on the morning of July 30, Dang Dong Ha, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, emphasised that the film offers a valuable opportunity to promote Quang Tri’s tourism potential, particularly to Indian visitors, but also to a broader global audience.
With a proactive and creative approach, Hanoi is positioning itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations where tradition meets innovation, and every visit offers a blend of the familiar and the new.
Fostering linkage among regional localities and restructuring the tourism sector towards professionalism are among measures to boost the “smokeless industry” of the Mekong Delta.
Vietnamese arrivals in Japan set record high in 11 months of 2023 (Photo: Flamingo Redtours) 
