New Trend in Japan Travel! Rakuten Travel Releases Latest Data: Accommodation Bookings in Central Japan Surge, Boosted by Asian Games and Autumn Foliage

As Taiwanese travelers gain more experience visiting Japan, an increasing number are shifting from classic must-see itineraries to seeking deeper travel and nature experiences. According to the latest 2026 booking data released by Rakuten Travel, overall accommodation growth in the 'Chubu 9 Prefectures'—Aichi, Gifu, Shizuoka, Nagano, Niigata, Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, and Yamanashi—has outpaced the national average growth across Japan. Analysis of booking data for the second half of this year shows that Aichi Prefecture demonstrated strong momentum in November, jumping to 4th place on the platform’s list of most-booked destinations, just behind Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Hokkaido.

Chen Chung-Hao, General Manager of Rakuten Travel Taiwan, stated: 'Nagoya is the largest city in central Japan and holds a strategically important position as a transportation hub. Flights from Taiwan to Nagoya are more frequent and offer more airline options than to neighboring countries, making travel to the Chubu region highly convenient for Taiwanese tourists. Starting from Nagoya, travelers can easily access Kyoto and Osaka via Shinkansen, or venture further to destinations like Takayama, Shirakawa-go, other areas in the Hokuriku region, or even travel south to explore the Ise-Shima region.

September: Get Excited for the Asian Games! Combine Competition Viewing with a Visit to Tōkai, the 'Hometown of the Lucky Cat'

For sports enthusiasts, the 20th Asian Games, set to take place in Nagoya from September 19 to October 4, is an unmissable event! Competition venues are spread across multiple locations, primarily within Aichi Prefecture, including Nagoya City, Toyota City, Okazaki City, and Tōkai City. Notably, this edition will feature the inaugural esports events, with the main venue located at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tōkai City. In addition to watching the games, Rakuten Travel recommends a side trip to Tōkai City on the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture, known for its unique charm.

Tōkai City is renowned for its thousand-year ceramic history as one of Japan’s 'Six Ancient Kilns,' as one of Japan’s largest producers of lucky cat figurines, and for its long coastal shoreline, where airplanes can often be seen flying low over the sea. For itinerary planning, visitors can take a peaceful stroll along the 'Ceramics Walking Path' with family, enjoying traditional brick kilns, chimneys, and giant lucky cat statues. On the 'Lucky Cat Avenue,' 39 lucky cat sculptures created by ceramic artists are on display. The nearby Rinku Beach is one of the most distinctive artificial beaches in the Tokai region, and the sight of airplanes taking off and landing against a sunset backdrop adds a unique charm to the seascape—making it the perfect post-game relaxation spot.

Venture into the Northern Alps: Hiking in Hakuba and Kamikochi

For travelers who enjoy mountain climbing and love a challenge, we recommend traveling from Nagoya to areas in Nagano Prefecture such as Azumino, Hakuba, or Kamikochi. This region serves as an excellent base for visiting the Karamatsu-daira cirque to view autumn foliage or climbing one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. The valley’s vibrant red leaves in autumn are especially breathtaking. After descending, we recommend staying at discounted hot spring resorts in Hakuba or Norikura Highlands to wash away fatigue with natural hot springs. The 'Hakuba Serai Resort' is nestled in a quiet forest in Hakuba, just a 5-minute drive from Iwashiro and Tsugaike Kogen ski resorts. The resort features three uniquely styled restaurants and a natural hot spring, allowing the whole family to relax in nature. This tranquil resort hotel, surrounded by forests and away from city centers, is conveniently located about a 5-minute drive from Hakuba Iwashiro and Hakuba Tsugaike Kogen ski resorts. Guests can choose meals from a French restaurant using local ingredients or a wagyu yakiniku restaurant based on their preference. The hotel has its own on-site hot spring source, offering not only a large public bath but also private-use hot spring facilities. With its natural surroundings and well-equipped facilities, guests can comfortably stay for either short or extended periods.

Enjoy Autumn Foliage Hikes, Stroll Historic Streets, and Indulge in Hot Springs and Wagyu

For those who prefer a relaxed nature walk and hot spring soak, travelers can take a train or bus from Nagoya to Kōrakukankei. During the annual 'Kōyō Festival' in November, a limited-time direct bus is also available. After enjoying the scenic views, take a limited express train to Takayama and the Hida Hot Spring Village in Gifu Prefecture. Stroll through the 'Edo-era old town' while savoring 'Hida beef' and enjoy the majestic scenery of the Northern Alps. You can also immerse yourself in the Oku-Hida Hot Spring Village, which boasts over 100 natural spring sources, for a relaxing onsen experience. The 'Autumn Takayama Festival,' held every October, is an important local ritual to thank the gods for a bountiful harvest and prepare for winter. The elaborate dashi floats are considered one of Japan’s 'Three Most Beautiful Festivals.' Taiwanese travelers can plan to experience this during the Double Ten Day long weekend.