In the domestic travel market of Japan, people not to travel have been increasing, while people to travel travel more frequently. Japan Travel Bureau Foundation (JTBF) analyzed why they do not travel, focusing on ages, based on the results of the JTBF Travel Awareness Survey.
‘Polarization’ is progressing among senior travelers
Looking at the breakdown of the actual number of travelers taking domestic overnight trips (for tourism and recreation), the ratio of people who do not travel even once a year will rise from 46.8% in 2014 to 50.5% in 2024. On the contrary, the ratio of people who travel four or more times a year is also increasing at the same time, as data show that the average number of trips taken by those who travel (people who travel at least once a year) increase by approximately 0.5 trips from 2.37 trips in 2014 to 2.86 trips in 2024.
Over the 10 years from 2014 to 2024, there has been a significant decrease in the number of people in their 60s and 70s, while there has been an increase in the number of people in their 20s.
【図1】国内宿泊旅行の推移
【図2】年代別・国内宿泊旅行の実施率
What are reasons for them to travel?
Based on the the results of the JTBF Travel Awareness Survey, the biggest obstacle was "inability to take vacation," with about 30% choosing this option in 2014, but this figure dropped significantly by 2024.
【図3】60代の旅行の阻害要因
In 2024, the obstacles to travel, such as "I have pets" and "I have family members to care for," which were previously just over 10%, have increased significantly, ranking second and third overall. In addition, the obstacle of "expensive travel packages, accommodation, and transportation," which was rarely selected in 2014, is also on the rise.
JTBF analyzed that the new obstacles, such as pets or , the need to care for parents or recent rising prices, may be leading to an increase in the number of 60s who do not travel.
【図4】20代の旅行の阻害要因
Meanwhile, the travel rate among 20s has been increasing over the past 10 years, and JTBF said that this may be because of easier taking vacation than before and the government’s leading work style reforms. However, blocking factors such as "not being interested in traveling," "having other things to do besides traveling," and "there is no place I want to go," which were not very prominent in 2014, are on the rise in 2024.
‘Range of interests in travel’ is shrinking among 20s
Looking at the "types of trips 20s would like to take," most types of trips decreased in 2024 compared to 2014. A decade ago, younger people had a greater number of types of trips they wanted to take, but this number tended to decrease as people got older. However, today, the range of travel interests seems to be roughly the same for both young and older people.
【図5】行ってみたい旅行タイプ（20代）
【図6】行ってみたい旅行タイプ（平均選択個数の変化）
Summary
The emergence of new obstacles has led to a polarization among the elderly, with an increase in people who do not travel, while those who do travel are now traveling more frequently.
While the number of young people who travel is increasing due to environmental factors such as easier vacation time, there is also a decline in their intention to travel. It is true that values, hobbies, and tastes are more diverse among younger people, and they seem to find their values in other areas than travel.
