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Korean Interest in Japanese Hotels Explodes 155% in July, Osaka Tops Searches

From Dong-A Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • South Korean interest in Japanese hotels surged 155% in July compared to the previous year, with Osaka being the most searched region.
  • Popular hotels in Osaka, particularly in the Namba area, offer convenient city access and amenities like large public baths and saunas.
  • While Osaka dominated searches, a notable increase in interest was also seen for smaller Japanese cities like Matsuyama, indicating a broader curiosity for diverse travel experiences.

Summer vacation plans are driving a dramatic surge in bookings for Japanese hotels among South Korean travelers. Data from Klook reveals a staggering 155% increase in traffic to its Japan hotel category in July compared to the same month last year.

Osaka emerged as the undisputed top destination, with hotels in the Namba district dominating search results. The Kandeo Hotels Osaka Namba, Namba Oriental Hotel, and Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka Namba were among the most sought-after accommodations. These popular choices share common traits: prime locations for urban exploration and desirable amenities such as large public baths, open-air baths, and free lounges, catering to travelers seeking relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

Beyond the major cities, a significant uptick in interest was observed for smaller Japanese locales. The OneFive Osaka Namba Dotonbori saw the highest year-over-year traffic growth, but the REF Matsuyama City Hotel by Vessel Hotels in Matsuyama also captured attention, ranking second in growth. This suggests a growing appetite for exploring less-traveled destinations, with hotels like the Matsuyama property distinguishing themselves by offering local experiences, such as large public baths with saunas and regional Ehime prefecture breakfasts.

Other regions also saw notable interest. Sapporo's hotels, including the Sapporo Stream Hotel and Vessel Hotel Campana Susukino, gained traction for their direct access to entertainment districts and Hokkaido-themed breakfasts. In Okinawa, resort-style accommodations like The Resonant Okinawa Chatan Spa & Resort and Okinawa Grand Mer Resort, featuring rooftop pools and ocean views, ranked highly, appealing to those seeking a more relaxed, resort-focused vacation.

Accommodation is a key factor that determines travel convenience and local experience. Based on Klook's strength in preparing transportation, tours, and activities in one place, we will continue to enhance benefits so that customers can enjoy their Japan trips more conveniently and affordably.

— Lee Jun-ho, Klook Korea General ManagerLee Jun-ho highlights Klook's strategy to leverage its platform's integrated services to enhance the customer experience for Japan travelers.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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