Fact Check: "Japanese people don't visit abroad in recent years due to weak yen"
What We Know
The claim that "Japanese people don't visit abroad in recent years due to weak yen" reflects a complex economic situation influenced by currency fluctuations. As of mid-2025, the yen has reached its weakest point in over three decades, trading at approximately ¥160 to the US dollar. This depreciation has led to a significant increase in inbound tourism, with foreign visitors taking advantage of favorable exchange rates, resulting in record-breaking monthly arrivals in Japan throughout 2024 and into 2025 (GoConnect).
Conversely, the weak yen has made international travel increasingly expensive for Japanese residents. With rising prices for imported goods and stagnant wages, many Japanese citizens are feeling the financial strain, which has led to a decrease in overseas travel. Reports indicate that fewer Japanese residents are taking international trips, and even domestic travel has seen a decline as accommodation prices rise to accommodate the influx of tourists (GoConnect).
Additionally, the Mastercard Economics Institute has noted that the weak yen has a direct correlation with travel trends, indicating that as the yen weakens, the number of visitors from Asian countries to Japan increases, suggesting that the economic environment is indeed influencing travel decisions (Mastercard Economics Institute).
Analysis
While the claim has elements of truth, it requires a nuanced understanding. The weak yen has undeniably made international travel more expensive for Japanese citizens, contributing to a decline in the number of overseas trips taken by locals. Reports suggest that international travel from Japan is expected to increase by 21% in the summer of 2025, indicating a potential recovery in outbound travel as economic conditions evolve (Mastercard Economics Institute).
However, the immediate impact of the weak yen has been a deterrent for many Japanese travelers who find themselves unable to afford the costs associated with traveling abroad. This situation is compounded by rising domestic prices, which further limit disposable income for travel. The economic pressures faced by residents are significant, as the cost of living has increased due to the weak yen, making it difficult for many to prioritize international travel (GoConnect).
The sources used in this analysis are credible, with GoConnect providing a comprehensive overview of the economic implications of the weak yen and its effects on both tourism and local residents. The Mastercard Economics Institute's report also adds valuable insights into travel trends, particularly in relation to currency fluctuations. However, it is essential to recognize that while the weak yen has contributed to reduced overseas travel, other factors such as domestic economic conditions and personal financial situations also play critical roles.
Conclusion
The claim that "Japanese people don't visit abroad in recent years due to weak yen" is Partially True. While it accurately reflects the immediate impact of the weak yen on international travel costs for Japanese residents, it does not account for the potential recovery in outbound travel as economic conditions improve. The weak yen has indeed created a challenging environment for overseas travel, but forecasts indicate that Japanese travelers may begin to venture abroad more frequently in the near future.
Sources
- The Weak Yen: A Double-Edged Sword for Japan - GoConnect
- Mastercard Economics Institute analyzes weak yen gives ...
- Japanese Travel Trends 2025: Key Data & Emerging Destinations
- Japan: How a stronger yen may impact Tokyo's booming ...
- Weak Yen Boosts Japanese Tourism | .TR - Tourism Review
- Japan’s tourist arrivals hit all-time high as weak currency ...
- Foreign visitors have been driving Japan's economy. A ...
- 2025 (January-December) Travel Trend Outlook