Japan promotes passport; offers 5,000 yen travel credit to holders
Although Japan boasts one of the strongest passports globally, granting visa-free access to 192 countries, only around 15% of its citizens take advantage of this privilege. Low-cost carrier Peach Aviation Ltd. is promoting passport usage with a monthly lottery through December 22, wherein passengers with new or renewed Japanese passports can win 5,000 yen (Rs. 2,900 approximately) in travel credit for their flights. Given that Japan has historically had a lower rate of passport ownership, this move appears promising.
Americans and Britishers own more passports than the Japanese
Particularly when compared to other nations, passport ownership has always been low in Japan. According to the State Department, 160 million Americans, or nearly half of the country's population, had passports as of 2023. A staggering 86% of British citizens are also passport holders.
Here's why there is low passport ownership in Japan
One reason for Japan's low passport ownership rate could be the numerous domestic travel options available, explains Yoko Hayano, who is a chief consultant at JTB Tourism Research & Consulting Co. She explains that many Japanese people feel content without needing to venture abroad. Factors such as overseas inflation, a weaker currency, global instability, and the ongoing COVID-19 scare may have also contributed to a decreased demand for international travel.
Factors affecting overseas travel demand in Japan
According to the Japan Association of Travel Agents, more initiatives are necessary to stimulate travel demand. They came to this conclusion as they previously ran a campaign through September to offset passport costs. Although Hayano from JTB Tourism Research observes that Japan usually recovers slower than other nations from travel disruptions brought on by infectious diseases, she still believes that the country will eventually recover.
Japan lost the top spot to Singapore earlier this year
After topping the list for five years in a row, the nation lost its top spot to Singapore earlier this year. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released the most recent data, which shows that as of the end of 2022, there were only 21.8 million valid Japanese passports in circulation. More than any other country, Singaporeans have visa-free access to 192 destinations.
Japan is now urging citizens to use their mighty passport
With this proactive step, Japan is urging its citizens to grab their mighty passport and take advantage of visa-free foreign travel. This will not only help the country increase its chances of toggling Singapore and grabbing the top spot again but also boost its travel and tourism industry. According to Miyabi Nanya, ANA Holdings Inc. subsidiary Peach's marketing strategy manager, a second campaign is currently being considered.
