TOKYO -- Only 17.5% of Japanese nationals held passports at the end of 2024, a much lower rate than in other advanced economies, amid rising costs overseas and a weakening appetite for travel among younger generations.
Weak yen and shift to domestic tourism seen behind sluggish issuance
Japan's passport allows visa-free travel to 190 destinations. (Photo by Yuki Nakao)
TOKYO -- Only 17.5% of Japanese nationals held passports at the end of 2024, a much lower rate than in other advanced economies, amid rising costs overseas and a weakening appetite for travel among younger generations.