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A New Era of US-Japan Travel: All That You Need To Know

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Thursday, June 26, 2025

Summer 2025 has also seen an unprecedented rise in travel trends for international travel, and Japan is among the leading American holiday destinations. OAG’s travel analytics show that over 1.5 million seats will be leaving from the US to Japan for travel in the busiest travel months of June, July, and August, marking an increase of 6.4% compared to the same period last year. The surge places Tokyo second only to London and before Paris on travel booking platform Kayak’s summer hotspots rankings, where Paris ranks third.

American tourists, who used to be discouraged from visiting Japan because of its perceived cost, are coming there in droves, lured on by cheaper flights and a favorable exchange rate, which brings the destination well into affordability.

United Airlines Leads the Charge to Japan

United Airlines has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of this trend, operating more flights and offering additional seats to Japan than any other US carrier. Andrew Nocella, Chief Commercial Officer at United, described Japan as one of the airline’s “hottest destinations” for the summer. “Everybody is trying to take the family to Japan,” Nocella shared in an interview with Bloomberg Television. United has already reported a 15% rise in bookings for its US-to-Japan flights compared to 2024. Despite this increase, the airline is not adding additional capacity, as it already operates up to 20 flights a day to Japan, including 17 to Tokyo, two to Osaka, and one to Nagoya.

However, United’s competitors, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, are responding to the growing demand by increasing the number of available seats. Delta, for example, has boosted its capacity by nearly 7%, including a significant 20% rise in its premium cabin offerings. Meanwhile, American Airlines has increased the number of seats available by 11%, notably adding a larger Boeing 777-200 between Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and Tokyo’s Narita Airport. This surge in air traffic to Japan highlights the broader trend of Americans exploring new international destinations post-pandemic.

The Economic Impact: Currency Strengthening and Lower Airfares

One of the key drivers behind this surge in US-Japan travel is the favorable exchange rate between the US dollar (USD) and the Japanese yen (JPY). Over the past few years, the yen has depreciated against the dollar, reaching near-historic lows. In fact, $1,000 now exchanges for approximately 146,000 yen, compared to just 108,000 yen in June 2019. This currency shift has greatly increased the purchasing power of American travelers visiting Japan, making it a more affordable option compared to other international destinations.

The drop in airfares is another contributing factor. Long-haul flights to Asia, including Japan, are averaging 11% less than last summer, according to Kayak’s data. For instance, round-trip airfare to Osaka is down 9%, and flights to Tokyo are 3% cheaper. These lower ticket prices, combined with the favorable exchange rate, have made Japan a compelling destination for American travelers, many of whom are now considering the country for their summer vacations, despite it once being regarded as a cost-prohibitive option.

Shifting Preferences: US Travelers Moving Away from Europe

The growing interest in Japan also reflects a shift away from traditional European hotspots. According to travel app Hopper, capacity from the US to Great Britain and Germany has decreased by 1.8% and 0.4%, respectively, compared to last year. Many travelers are now seeking new and unique experiences, with Tokyo emerging as a key alternative to Europe.

As Peter Vlitas, executive vice president of partner relations at Internova Travel Group, observed, “People are saying, ‘I did Europe; now I want to do something different.’” This shift in traveler preferences, combined with a weakening post-pandemic surge in European tourism, has further contributed to the rise in popularity of Japan. The cost-effectiveness of visiting Japan, due to favorable exchange rates and lower airfare, has added to the appeal.

The US-Japan Travel Surge in Numbers

The latest data from the Japan National Tourism Organization highlights a nearly 30% increase in US visitors to Japan through May 2025 compared to the previous year. This marks a clear rebound in travel between the two nations, although the volume of US-to-Japan flights still remains below pre-pandemic levels. As international travel recovers, the dramatic uptick in US-Japan traffic couldn’t come at a better time, especially for US carriers that have seen a decline in domestic flight bookings. The rise in international travel to Asia, particularly Japan, has helped these airlines offset recent losses from slower domestic travel growth.

Delta’s investment in increasing its flight capacity by 7% and the expansion of American Airlines’ routes show that the demand for Japan is expected to continue to rise. In particular, the new partnerships between American Airlines and Japan Airlines, which has also increased seat capacity by 12% this summer, reflect the growing significance of this international route.

An Unexpected Shift: Asians Avoiding Japan Amid Earthquake Fears

Interestingly, the increase in US travelers to Japan contrasts with a significant decline in bookings from neighboring Asian countries. Fear of another catastrophic earthquake, following the 2011 disaster, has led to a dip in bookings from Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong. Some of this unease stems from a viral manga (Japanese comic) prediction, circulating on social media, which forecasts another major earthquake in Japan this summer. This has created a noticeable divide, with American travelers flocking to Japan while Asian tourists hesitate.

Conclusion: Why Japan is the Must-Visit Destination for 2025

Overall, US-Japan travel is a multi-dimensional trend. Favorable exchange rates, lower fares, and seeking new travel experiences have encouraged many Americans to restructure their summer vacations and list Japan at the top of their agendas. This summer, Japan surpassed Paris and other continental European destinations as a destination of choice. Airlines like United, Delta, and American are increasing seat capacity to accommodate demand, and travel between the US and Japan will continue to increase.

For anyone seeking an offbeat, affordable, and culturally rewarding holiday, Japan’s resurgence to world prominence is undeniable. Whether spurred on by the strength of the US dollar or inspired for once-in-a-lifetime travel, Japan is where travel buffs turn to escape the mundane.

References: OAG (Official Aviation Guide), Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), U.S. Department of State, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines

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Heavy Rains Lash Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad; Schools, Offices Closed, Airlines Issue Travel Advisory

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September 2, 2025

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Delhi-NCR Weather: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for Delhi-NCR, including Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad, as relentless monsoon showers continue to lash northern India. Today’s weather forecast for Delhi warns of intense downpours throughout the day.

In Gurugram, heavy rains have triggered severe waterlogging and massive traffic jams, with reports of a 7-kilometre-long traffic snarl. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has issued an orange alert for the city, advising the closure of all schools, colleges, and offices, and encouraging work-from-home arrangements.

Meanwhile, Noida and Ghaziabad are also experiencing heavy rainfall. The IMD’s weather alert extends to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where a red alert has been issued due to the risk of flash floods and extremely heavy rainfall. Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir remain under an orange warning. As per today’s forecast, schools and offices in affected regions are expected to remain closed to ensure public safety.

Air India also issued a passenger advisory: ” Rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today. Please check your flight status here https://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey to the airport.”

Delhi-NCR Rains: Avoid These Routes In Gurugram

Many parts of Gurugram experienced severe waterlogging on Monday following hours of continuous rain. Commuters reported flooding at major junctions including Hero Honda Chowk, Sohna Road, Narsinghpur stretch on NH-48, IFFCO Chowk, and Sectors 29 and 31. Traffic crawled along Golf Course Road and MG Road due to knee-deep water. Authorities have urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas during peak hours and to opt for alternate routes or work-from-home options where possible.

ALSO READ: Jammu-Kashmir Railway News: Jammu Tawi-bound 69 Trains Suspended Till September 30 Amid Landslides, Flood; Details

Delhi-NCR Rains: Are Schools, Offices Open In Gurugram Today?

Gurugram recorded over 100 mm of rainfall between 3 PM and 7 PM on September 1. In response to IMD’s orange alert, the District Disaster Management Authority has directed the closure of all offices on Tuesday (September 2), advising businesses to allow employees to work from home.

All schools in the district have also been advised to conduct online classes on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.





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The slow train from North Korea: How Kim Jong-un is travelling to China

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September 2, 2025

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SEOUL: North Korea’s Kim Jong-un left Pyongyang by train on Monday on his way to Beijing, Yonhap news agency reported, relying on a slow but specialised form of transport that the country’s leaders have used for decades.It was not clear which train he used, but in the past he has used bulletproof trains that offer a safer and more comfortable space for a large entourage, security guards, food and amenities, and a place to discuss agendas ahead of meetings, experts say. Since becoming the head in late 2011, Kim has used a train to visit China, Vietnam, and Russia.It is unclear how many trains North Korean leaders have used over the years, but Ahn Byung-min, a South Korean expert on North Korean transportation, has said multiple trains were needed for security reasons.Ahn said those trains have 10 to 15 carriages each, some of which are used only by the leader, such as a bedroom, but others carry security guards and medical staff. They also usually have space for Kim’s office, communications equipment, a restaurant, and several car transportation carriages for two armoured Mercedes, he added.A video released in 2018 by North Korean state TV showed Kim meeting with top Chinese officials in a wide train car ringed with pink couches. The video also showed the carriage housing Kim’s office, with a desk and chair, and a map of China and the Korean peninsula.In 2020, state TV footage showed Kim riding a train to visit a typhoon-hit area, offering a glimpse of a carriage decorated with flower-shaped lighting and zebra-printed fabric chairs.When Kim Jong-un took the train to Russia, including in 2023 for a summit with President Putin, its wheel assemblies had to be reconfigured at a border station because the two countries use different rail gauges, Ahn said.While there is no such requirement for China, a Chinese locomotive pulls the train once it crosses the border, because a local engineer knows the rail system and signals, said Kim Han-tae, a South Korean former train engineer.Ahn noted the serial numbers were either 0001 or 0002, suggesting China was providing him with engines reserved for the most senior officials. The train can reach speeds of up to 80kms/hr on China’s network, compared with a maximum of about 45kms/ hr on North Korea’s tracks, Ahn said. North Korea’s founding leader, Kim Il Sung, Kim’s grandfather, travelled abroad by train regularly until his death in 1994.(Taken from Reuters)





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Modi and Putin affirm special relationship as India faces steep US tariffs over Russian oil imports : NPR

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September 1, 2025

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin pose during their meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, Monday, Sept. 1, 2025.

Vladimir Smirnov/AP/Pool Sputnik Kremlin


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Vladimir Smirnov/AP/Pool Sputnik Kremlin

TIANJIN, China — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of a regional summit in China on Monday in a show of deepening ties when New Delhi’s relations with Washington are strained over the purchase of Russian oil.

The two leaders held talks after attending the key session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization gathering in the port city of Tianjin, where discussions focused on regional stability, bilateral trade and energy cooperation.

In his remarks to open the talks, Modi termed the partnership with Moscow as “special and privileged.” Putin addressed Modi as a “dear friend” and hailed Russia’s ties with India as special, friendly and trusting.

“Russia and India have maintained special relations for decades. Friendly, trusting. This is the foundation for the development of our relations in the future,” Putin said.

Putin plans to travel to India in December for the 23rd India-Russia annual summit, according to his foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov.

Relationships on display

Modi used the SCO meeting to welcome the initiatives aimed at halting the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and called on the stakeholders to move forward constructively.

“To end the conflict soonest and establish peace permanently, we need to find out a way. It’s a call of the entire humanity,” Modi said.

Putin was accompanied by a large delegation that included top government officials. Russian state media reported that before sitting down for their formal meeting, Putin and Modi spoke one-on-one for almost an hour in a Russian-made limousine that Putin regularly takes on foreign trips.

Moments before the leaders lined up for a group photo, Modi was seen clasping Putin’s hand with the gusto of an old friend, bursting into his trademark hearty laughter. The moment was infectious as Putin grinned and chuckled, while Chinese President Xi Jinping gave a measured smile. The trio, ringed by watchful interlocuters, chatted animatedly for a few seconds.

Modi met Xi ahead of the opening of the summit Sunday and the two leaders pledged to resolve their border differences and bolster cooperation.

Washington pushing together China, Russia and India

Monday’s bilateral meeting between Modi and Putin carried added significance by coming days after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed an additional 25% tariffs on Indian imports, raising the total duties to a steep 50%, in retaliation for India’s continued purchases of discounted Russian oil.

Washington has repeatedly warned New Delhi against buying Russian crude, which it said was partly keeping Moscow’s revenues afloat to fund the Ukraine war. India has defended its imports as essential for meeting the growing energy needs of its 1.4 billion people.

Analysts said Trump’s steep tariffs and the tone coming from the White House have pushed New Delhi closer to China and Russia.

“While India-China reengagements started much before Trump, his policies are accelerating a process whereby India seems to be working much more closely with China and Russia to push back against economic unilateralism it is witnessing from the U.S.,” said Harsh Pant, vice president of foreign policy at New Delhi based think tank the Observer Research Foundation.

Modi travelled to Russia twice last year. The first was a visit to Moscow for talks with Putin in July, which was his first trip to Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Kremlin’s forces in February 2022. He then traveled to Kazan in October for the summit of the BRICS bloc of developing economies.

Trump’s reaction

As Xi, Putin and Modi showed extraordinary unity, Trump on Monday continued to jab at New Delhi.

As the summit wrapped up, Trump charged in a social media post that historically the U.S.-India trade relationship “has been a totally one sided disaster!” Trump also bristled about India surging its Russian oil purchases and signaled no trade deal with New Delhi is in sight.

“They have now offered to cut their Tariffs to nothing, but it’s getting late,” Trump said in the posting on his Truth Social platform. “They should have done so years ago. Just some simple facts for people to ponder!!!”

SCO nations share a history of business partnerships

Russia has had strong ties with India since the Cold War, and New Delhi’s importance as a key trading partner has grown since the war between Moscow and Ukraine.

China and India have become key buyers of Russian oil after the West shunned Russian exports to punish Moscow.

India historically bought most of its crude from the Middle East, but the world’s third-largest crude importer after China and the U.S. has started buying Russian oil available at discounted rates. Russia now accounts for around 37% of India’s total oil imports, according to analysts and Indian officials.

Trade between India and Russia has sharply increased in recent years, reaching a record $68.7 billion in the 2024-25 financial year. Imports from Russia reached around $64 billion and exports from India totaled about $5 billion, according to Indian government data.

The two nations aspire to bolster trade to $100 billion by 2030.

Modi’s meeting with Putin underscored New Delhi’s stance that India prized its old and reliable strategic partners and has sufficient strategic autonomy in its foreign policy to maintain and strengthen its multi-dimensional partnership, said Sreeram Sundar Chaulia, an international affairs expert at New Delhi’s Jindal School of International Affairs.

At the same time, the Indian government hopes the present rough weather between India and the U.S. is a temporary aberration, Chaulia said.

“Then, India can return happily to having the Russian cake and eating the American pie as part of its multi-alignment strategy,” Chaulia said.



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