A survey on overseas travel found that the top three foreign destinations for Japanese tourists in 2018 were Taiwan, South Korea, and Hawaii (Oahu). Although their order has changed, the top three destinations have remained the same since this survey began in 2008.

As of early 2026, Japanese outbound tourism shows a strong preference for short-haul Asian destinations and traditional favorites in the Pacific. South Korea and Taiwan consistently rank as the top two destinations due to their proximity, cultural similarities, and the immense popularity of "K-culture" and local food scenes. For long-haul travel, Hawaii remains the undisputed "spiritual home" for Japanese vacationers, particularly Honolulu, which offers a unique blend of American comfort and Japanese-speaking services. Within Europe, France and Italy are the primary draws for luxury and cultural travelers. Domestic travel within Japan also remains incredibly robust, with residents frequently taking "staycations" to Okinawa for beaches or Hokkaido for skiing and nature. Interestingly, in 2026, there is a rising trend in "niche" travel to Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam and Thailand, driven by a younger generation seeking adventure and high-value luxury experiences that are more affordable than traditional Western European trips.