TAT celebrates three new Japan–Bangkok routes by Thai AirAsia X and Thai Lion Air - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is marking a significant step forward in regional air connectivity with the launch of three new Japan–Bangkok services operated by Thai AirAsia X and Thai Lion Air. The routes from Sendai, Hokkaido and Osaka greatly increase short-haul access into Thailand and are expected to stimulate year-end demand from one of the country’s most important international visitor markets.

Miss Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, highlighted the strategic importance of the expansion: “These new connections from Sendai, Hokkaido and Osaka reflect the strong confidence of our airline partners in Thailand’s tourism prospects. Expanded air access is essential to sustaining travel flows from Japan, and TAT will continue working with carriers to support sustainable growth. With rising interest among younger Japanese travellers, Thailand is well placed to deliver high-quality experiences that resonate with today’s evolving travel preferences.”

Japan remains a cornerstone of Thailand’s inbound tourism

Japan continues to generate stable revenue and a reliable year-round visitor flow. TAT is pursuing a dual approach: maintaining established segments while cultivating new ones, especially Millennial and Gen Z travellers who are discovering Thailand for the first time. Enhanced airline partnerships and increased seat capacity are key to strengthening Thailand’s position as a preferred destination for Japanese visitors.

New routes expand access and support emerging travel segments

Thai AirAsia X launched its four-times-weekly Sendai–Bangkok service on 1 December 2025. The inaugural flight carried more than 100 youth football players from the Tohoku region who arrived for matches and training activities. Their visit aligned with TAT’s new Enjoy Training in Thailand initiative, which positions Thailand as a warm-weather, year-round training base for young athletes from Japan. Joint promotions with partner sports clubs aim to encourage recurring camps and reinforce Thailand’s image as a world-class sports training hub.

Thai Lion Air inaugurated its three-times-weekly Hokkaido–Bangkok service on 1 December 2025, followed by the launch of a four-times-weekly Osaka–Bangkok service on 2 December 2025. Together, the new routes improve connectivity from several major Japanese cities and widen travel options for both leisure and sports-related segments.

Strong momentum toward one million arrivals

From 1 January to 30 November 2025, Thailand welcomed 985,612 Japanese visitors – an increase of 4.16 per cent year on year. Most travelers arrive as FIT visitors, spending an average of 39,000 Baht per trip with an average stay of 6.04 days. Bangkok, Chon Buri, Phuket, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai remain top destinations. With demand continuing to grow, Thailand is on track to surpass one million Japanese arrivals by the end of 2025.

Image Credit: © TAT