The excitement surrounding Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai is already translating into a significant economic boom for the region, with new data from Visa revealing a dramatic surge in spending by international tourists. Well ahead of the event’s opening, the Kansai region is outpacing the rest of Japan in tourism recovery, signaling a vibrant future for travel in Western Japan.
Kansai Outpaces National Growth in Tourist Spending
According to Visa’s latest “Travel Insights: Japan Inbound Tourism and Expo 2025” report, spending on foreign-issued Visa cards in the Kansai region soared by 37% in the first quarter of 2024 (January to March) compared to the same pre-pandemic period in 2019. This remarkable growth significantly outpaces the national average of 33%.
The city at the heart of the upcoming Expo, Osaka, is leading this charge. Osaka Prefecture alone witnessed an even more impressive 45% surge in spending, highlighting its growing appeal as a top-tier global destination.
The data further indicates a robust increase in overall travel expenditure. Total spending by inbound visitors in the Kansai region jumped by 48% over 2019 levels, while the average spending per traveler also saw a healthy increase of 25%. This trend is driven by a combination of factors, including the weaker yen and the full-scale resumption of international flights.
The “Expo Effect”: Early Momentum for 2025
While the favorable exchange rate and restored travel routes are key drivers, Visa’s analysis suggests a powerful underlying factor: the “Expo effect.” The growing anticipation for Expo 2025 is creating a powerful incentive for travelers to visit the region early, exploring what Osaka and the surrounding Kansai area have to offer before the main event begins.
This pre-Expo buzz is not just boosting numbers; it’s reshaping the region’s tourism landscape. The global spotlight on Osaka is encouraging investment and development, enhancing the visitor experience and solidifying Kansai’s reputation as a must-visit destination. The positive economic impact expected from the Expo appears to be arriving ahead of schedule, laying a strong foundation for a successful event.
Future Outlook: What This Means for Travelers and the Region
The current growth trend offers a glimpse into a promising future for tourism in Kansai, with significant implications for both visitors and the local economy.
An Enhanced Visitor Experience
For travelers planning a trip to Osaka and Kansai, this momentum translates into tangible benefits. The run-up to the Expo is accelerating improvements in infrastructure, including transportation and accommodation.
A key area of enhancement is in payment systems. To cater to the influx of international visitors, the region is rapidly expanding its cashless payment infrastructure. Visa notes that the number of contactless transactions (known as “Visa Touch”) in the Kansai region skyrocketed by an incredible 91 times in March 2024 compared to March 2019. This shift towards seamless, touch-free payments will make transactions smoother and more convenient for tourists.
Preparing for the Crowds
The rising popularity also means that travelers should plan ahead. Increased demand will likely lead to higher prices and lower availability for flights and hotels, especially as the Expo dates draw closer. Early booking is highly recommended to secure the best options.
For the Kansai region, the Expo represents a golden opportunity to showcase its unique culture, cuisine, and attractions to a global audience. The event is poised to be a powerful catalyst for long-term, sustainable tourism growth, promising to invigorate the local economy and cement its status as a world-class travel hub for years to come.
