The USA, a top global travel destination, is experiencing an unexpected dip in international visitors, with a notable decline in travellers from India. According to the US Commerce Department’s National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO), June 2025 marked a break in a decades-long trend where every June since 2001, except during the COVID-19 period, saw an increase in visitors compared to the previous year.

This year, however, Indian visitor numbers dropped to 2,10,000 in June 2025, an 8% decrease from 2,30,000 in June 2024. Data from July 2025 shows a further 5.5% decline compared to July 2024.

This downturn is part of a broader decline in international tourism to the US. Times of India reported that NTTO data indicates a 6.2% drop in total non-US resident international visitors in June 2025 compared to June 2024, with declines of 7% in May, 8% in March, and 1.9% in February. January and April were exceptions, with increases of 4.7% and 1.3%, respectively.

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India remains the fourth-largest source market for US visitors, with the UK leading as the top overseas source, followed by India. Mexico and Canada, benefiting from land borders, are the top two markets, while Brazil ranks fifth.

The decline in Indian visitors is particularly evident among students. A leading travel agent told The Times of India, “We are seeing a very visible impact on the student segment this year due to the delay in visa issuance, even after people securing college admission.” These delays are disrupting travel plans for Indian students, a significant portion of the US visitor demographic. While multiple factors may contribute to the decline, stricter visa policies under US President Donald Trump’s second term are likely playing a role.

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New Delhi  – Indian travelers are showing increasing interest in Japan, with Agoda data revealing a 68% year-on-year increase in searches between 15 May and 15 August 2025, compared to the same period last year.

Among the most searched destinations, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto lead the list, recording growth of 59%, 158%, and 53% year-on-year respectively. Osaka stood out with the highest uptick in travel interest, underlining its rising popularity for city experiences and proximity to attractions such as Universal Studios Japan and Nara deer park.

Beyond the top three, Agoda’s data revealed rising interest from Indian travelers in Japanese destinations including Fujikawaguchiko (+36%) and Sapporo (+18%) in the top five, followed by Hakone (+46%), Okinawa (+47%), Fukuoka (+14%), Yokohama (+20) and Nagoya (+41%) rounding out the top ten. Notably, Nagoya entered the top ten for the first time this year, replacing Narita.

Agoda’s latest data reveals that Indian travelers are showing growing interest in a wider variety of Japanese destinations. In addition to traditional urban favorites, many of the top choices, such as Fujikawaguchiko, Hakone, and Sapporo, are celebrated for their scenic landscapes and leisure experiences, indicating a growing preference for nature and relaxation. Others, like Okinawa and Fukuoka, offer unique cultural and coastal experiences. This trend highlights a shift toward discovering a broader variety of Japan’s diverse regions, from mountain retreats to vibrant cities and coastal escapes.

Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands, said, “Japan’s mix of modern cities, cultural heritage, and natural beauty is striking a chord with Indian travelers like never before. What we are seeing is that travelers are not only choosing traditional hotspots like Tokyo but are also exploring beyond, with Osaka and other cities quickly gaining popularity. Families can enjoy theme parks and kid-friendly attractions, couples can chase romantic escapes in Kyoto and Hakone, while groups of friends can opt for leisure getaways in places like Okinawa. At Agoda, we’re making it easier to plan these journeys end-to-end, with convenient choices for flights, stays, and curated experiences across Japan.”

The demand also reflects broader travel trends, with greater flight connectivity, simplified visa processes, and rising interest in experiential travel driving demand. From city discovery in Tokyo to cultural immersion in Kyoto, relaxing hot springs in Hakone, and scenic escapes around Mount Fuji, Japan is firmly establishing itself as a must-visit destination for Indian travelers planning both short breaks and longer holidays.