As the 2026 Chuseok holiday approaches, the travel preferences of South Korean tourists heading to Japan are shifting. According to an analysis of booking data from the online travel platform Rakuten Travel, Fukuoka has emerged as the most popular destination for Korean travelers during this holiday period. It is followed by Oita, Hokkaido, Tokyo, Okinawa, and Hyogo.
Fukuoka, which ranked third last year, has climbed two spots to take the lead this year. The city's appeal lies in its short flight time and minimal travel burden, allowing visitors to enjoy both urban shopping and nearby hot spring resorts within a limited schedule. Oita, which secured the second spot, is also favored for its renowned hot spring destinations, such as Beppu and Yufuin, catering to holiday relaxation needs.
Notably, Hyogo Prefecture has made a significant entry into the top rankings. Previously, travel in the Kansai region was primarily centered around Osaka and Kyoto, but recent expansions in flight routes have broadened options to include surrounding small cities. Hyogo offers diverse attractions, including Kobe's culinary scene, shopping, Arima Onsen, and Himeji Castle, making it an appealing alternative for those seeking a more localized travel experience.
As travel demand diversifies from major cities to smaller towns and hot spring areas with distinct regional characteristics, the criteria for accommodation selection are becoming more stringent. Rakuten Travel plans to support tailored bookings for holiday travelers based on its extensive accommodation network, which includes large hotels, traditional ryokans, and resorts, along with over 10 million local review data.
Kim Tae-gwang, country manager of Rakuten Travel Korea, emphasized the importance of providing meticulous services tailored to individual preferences and schedules during the holiday season, which typically sees a concentration of short-distance travel. He stated that the company aims to continue offering differentiated travel experiences based on its comprehensive accommodation infrastructure across Japan.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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