Search Trends for Japan from the United States, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and South Korea

Introduction

Japan continues to be a top destination for visitors from around the world, each bringing unique interests and preferences. This article examines search trends related to Japan from visitors in key markets such as the United States, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Canada, and Australia. By analyzing popular topics like share houses, restaurants, job opportunities, and coworking spaces, we aim to understand how international visitors are planning their trips to Japan.

Through these search patterns, we can observe distinct trends: US and UK visitors are increasingly interested in job opportunities, particularly remote work, while Hong Kong visitors show a strong preference for luxury dining. Visitors from South Korea focus on part-time job opportunities and culinary experiences, and both Canadian and Australian visitors highlight their growing interest in coworking spaces and affordable housing options. This data provides valuable insights for businesses and service providers in Japan, offering guidance on how to cater to the varied needs of international travelers.

1. Interest in Share Houses

Share houses are a popular accommodation option, especially for foreign visitors and students. They offer affordable living and a chance for cultural exchange, making them ideal for those staying in Japan for both short and long periods.

United States

Visitors from the US frequently search for terms like "Tokyo share house foreigner" and "share house Tokyo for foreigners". These searches indicate a strong interest in affordable housing options, particularly for students and short-term residents. Share houses in Tokyo are seen as an attractive option due to their lower costs compared to private rentals, and they also provide opportunities for international social interactions.
Example Search Keywords (English): "Tokyo share house foreigner", "share house Tokyo for foreigners"

Hong Kong

Hong Kong visitors also show interest in share houses, though searches such as "Tokyo share house foreigner" are less frequent compared to the US. This suggests that Hong Kong visitors may lean towards short-term accommodations like hotels or serviced apartments for shorter stays. However, for those considering longer stays, share houses provide an appealing option due to their affordability.
Example Search Keywords (Traditional Chinese): "東京外國人合租屋", "東京分享住宅外籍人士"

United Kingdom

UK visitors often search for "share house for international students Japan", indicating that many visitors from the UK are likely students or young professionals seeking affordable and communal living options. Share houses in Tokyo cater well to this group by offering economical housing combined with the opportunity to engage with both local and international residents, making it easier to adjust to life in Japan.
Example Search Keywords (English): "share house for international students Japan", "student housing Japan"

South Korea

While there are fewer searches from South Korea specifically related to share houses, there is still a notable interest among students and long-term visitors. Share houses provide a viable and affordable option for those looking to experience life in Japan without the financial burden of high rent costs. Additionally, cultural exchange opportunities in these communal living spaces are attractive to South Korean residents.
Example Search Keywords (Korean): "도쿄 외국인 쉐어하우스", "일본 유학생 쉐어하우스"

Canada

Canadian visitors frequently search for "Tokyo share house foreigner" and "share house for international students Japan". This indicates a strong interest in economical living solutions, especially for students or young professionals staying for extended periods. The affordability and international community within share houses make them a popular choice for Canadians looking to balance budget living with cultural experiences.
Example Search Keywords (English and French): "Tokyo share house foreigner", "logement partagé à Tokyo pour étudiants internationaux"

Australia

In Australia, searches like "Tokyo share house foreigner" and "Coliving Osaka" highlight a growing interest in not only Tokyo but also Osaka as a viable option for digital nomads and long-term visitors. Australians are drawn to share houses for their lower costs and the opportunity to live with others from different cultural backgrounds, which enhances the overall Japan experience. Osaka, with its lower living costs compared to Tokyo, is particularly appealing for those looking to stay for extended periods.
Example Search Keywords (English): "Tokyo share house foreigner", "Coliving Osaka"

2. Restaurant Search Trends

Restaurant searches highlight a significant interest in Japanese cuisine across all regions, particularly among visitors from Hong Kong and South Korea. High-quality Japanese dining experiences, such as sushi and yakiniku, are consistently popular.

United States

Although specific restaurant searches from the US are less frequent, American visitors show strong interest in Japanese food, especially sushi and yakiniku. The appeal of Japan's culinary reputation, combined with the global popularity of these dishes, suggests that high-end dining experiences could attract more attention in future searches. As inbound tourism grows, we can expect to see more focus on top-rated restaurants.
Example Search Keywords (English): "best sushi Tokyo", "top yakiniku restaurants in Japan"

Hong Kong

Visitors from Hong Kong exhibit a marked interest in high-end restaurants, with searches like "Yakiniku Inoue Ginza Reviews" and "Sushi Namba Hibiya". These searches reflect a strong preference for Michelin-starred or well-regarded dining establishments. Hong Kong visitors tend to prioritize quality and reputation, often seeking reviews and recommendations before deciding where to dine, making food reviews and rankings particularly important for businesses targeting this market.
Example Search Keywords (Traditional Chinese): "銀座燒肉井上 評價", "日比谷壽司南波 推薦"

United Kingdom

UK visitors searched for "Akasaka Raimon", indicating a blend of business and leisure interests. Located in Tokyo's business district, Akasaka Raimon is a popular choice for both tourists and business travelers. This suggests that UK visitors may combine work and pleasure during their stay in Japan, making convenient and well-rated restaurants in business districts especially appealing.
Example Search Keywords (English): "Akasaka Raimon", "best business district restaurants Tokyo"

South Korea

South Korean visitors are particularly drawn to high-quality yakiniku experiences, with searches like "Yakiniku Jambo Hanare" highlighting their enthusiasm for Japan's wagyu beef. South Koreans have a deep appreciation for grilled meats, and Japanese yakiniku restaurants, known for their premium wagyu offerings, cater well to this preference. For businesses, promoting premium cuts of meat and authentic dining experiences can further attract this demographic.
Example Search Keywords (Korean): "야키니쿠 점보 하나레", "도쿄 와규 고급 야키니쿠"

Canada

Canadian visitors show growing interest in Japanese cuisine, though searches for specific restaurants are less frequent. General searches like "best sushi in Tokyo" or "top yakiniku in Japan" are common, reflecting a curiosity about Japanese food culture. As more Canadians seek unique dining experiences during their trips, there is potential for restaurants that focus on providing high-quality, memorable meals to capture their attention.
Example Search Keywords (English and French): "best sushi Tokyo", "meilleur sushi à Tokyo", "top yakiniku restaurants in Japan"

Australia

Australian visitors, particularly those interested in luxury dining, frequently search for places like "Akasaka Raimon" and "Yakiniku Aburiya Musashi". High-end yakiniku and sushi establishments are a top draw, with a focus on quality ingredients and authentic experiences. Australians are also increasingly exploring food destinations outside of Tokyo, including Osaka, which is known for its culinary scene. Restaurants that highlight their premium offerings and unique Japanese dining experiences can expect to attract more Australian visitors.
Example Search Keywords (English): "Akasaka Raimon", "Yakiniku Aburiya Musashi", "best sushi Osaka"

3. Interest in Job Opportunities

Job searches related to Japan, particularly for part-time and remote work opportunities, have seen a steady increase, reflecting a growing interest among foreign visitors in combining travel with employment opportunities. Many visitors, especially students and working holiday participants, look for flexible job options.

United States

US visitors frequently searched for keywords such as "part time jobs in Japan for foreigners" and "online part-time jobs in Japan for foreigners". This reflects the growing appeal of remote work and flexible employment in Japan, especially among digital nomads and those seeking to work while experiencing Japan's culture. The demand for online jobs indicates a trend towards blending work and travel, making Japan an attractive destination for remote workers.
Example Search Keywords (English): "part time jobs in Japan for foreigners", "online part-time jobs in Japan"

Hong Kong

Unlike the US, visitors from Hong Kong showed less interest in job-related searches. Instead, they focused more on tourism and culinary experiences. This trend suggests that most Hong Kong visitors are short-term tourists rather than individuals seeking employment opportunities. However, there is potential for growth in specific job markets, such as part-time roles in hospitality and retail, which could attract more interest in the future.
Example Search Keywords (Traditional Chinese): "日本兼職工作", "日本零售業工作"

United Kingdom

UK visitors also demonstrated a strong interest in part-time job opportunities with searches like "part time in Japan" and "remote part-time jobs in Japan". Many UK visitors are students or participants in working holiday programs, looking for part-time work to support their stay in Japan. The growing trend of remote and flexible work is particularly appealing to this demographic, offering them the chance to work while traveling.
Example Search Keywords (English): "part time in Japan", "remote part-time jobs in Japan"

South Korea

South Korean visitors, especially students, frequently searched for "part time jobs in Japan for foreigners". This highlights a strong demand for part-time work among South Korean students studying in Japan. Jobs in retail, hospitality, and language education are particularly popular, allowing students to support themselves financially while gaining valuable cultural and language experiences.
Example Search Keywords (Korean): "일본 아르바이트 외국인", "일본 학생 아르바이트"

Canada

Canadian visitors are increasingly interested in part-time job opportunities in Japan, particularly those available through working holiday programs. Searches for "part time jobs Japan" reflect a demand for positions in industries such as hospitality, retail, and education. Additionally, there is growing interest in digital nomad opportunities in cities like Osaka, where affordable living costs make it easier to balance work and travel.
Example Search Keywords (English and French): "part time jobs Japan", "emplois à temps partiel au Japon"

Australia

Australian visitors show a notable interest in job opportunities, particularly in the context of remote work. Searches for "Digital Nomad Osaka" and "part time jobs in Japan for foreigners" suggest a strong preference for flexible work arrangements. Australia’s proximity to Japan, combined with the growing trend of digital nomadism, makes Japan an attractive destination for Australian freelancers and remote workers.
Example Search Keywords (English): "Digital Nomad Osaka", "part time jobs in Japan for foreigners"

4. Interest in Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces and remote offices are becoming increasingly popular, especially among digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers looking to maintain a flexible work-life balance while exploring Japan.

United States

US visitors frequently search for "coworking Osaka" and "remote offices Osaka", reflecting a strong interest in remote work opportunities in Japan. Osaka, known for its lower living costs compared to Tokyo, is becoming an attractive destination for digital nomads and freelancers from the US. The growing remote work culture in the US is driving interest in Japan's coworking spaces, particularly in major cities like Osaka and Tokyo, where infrastructure and amenities cater to remote workers.
Example Search Keywords (English): "coworking Osaka", "remote offices Osaka"

Hong Kong

Although Hong Kong visitors currently show limited interest in coworking spaces, this trend could shift as business travel increases and remote work becomes more normalized. The potential for growth in this market is significant, especially for coworking spaces near central business districts in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where Hong Kong professionals may seek flexible work environments during extended stays.
Example Search Keywords (Traditional Chinese): "大阪共享辦公室", "東京共享辦公空間"

United Kingdom

UK visitors have shown some interest in coworking spaces, but the trend is not yet as strong as in the US. However, with the rise of remote work culture in the UK, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is potential for increased demand for coworking and coliving spaces in Japan. This trend could be driven by digital nomads and freelancers looking for flexible workspaces during their stay in Japan.
Example Search Keywords (English): "coworking spaces Japan", "remote work Tokyo"

South Korea

While South Korean visitors currently show minimal interest in coworking spaces, this could change as remote work becomes more widespread. South Korea has seen a growing interest in remote work and flexible job options, which may lead to increased demand for coworking spaces in cities like Osaka and Tokyo, where international professionals can find suitable working environments.
Example Search Keywords (Korean): "오사카 공유 오피스", "도쿄 리모트 오피스"

Canada

Canadian visitors, especially digital nomads and remote workers, are increasingly interested in Japan’s coworking spaces. Searches for "Digital Nomad Osaka" highlight the appeal of Osaka for remote workers due to its affordable living costs and well-equipped coworking spaces. Canadian digital nomads often prioritize cities with lower costs of living, and Osaka's competitive pricing makes it an attractive option compared to Tokyo.
Example Search Keywords (English and French): "Digital Nomad Osaka", "coworking spaces Japan", "nomades numériques Osaka"

Australia

Australian visitors show notable interest in coworking spaces, particularly in Osaka. "Digital Nomad Osaka" is a frequently searched term, indicating that Australia’s proximity to Japan and the growing trend of remote work are key factors driving interest. Coworking spaces in cities like Osaka, which offer both affordability and a conducive work environment, are appealing to Australian freelancers and digital nomads looking for new experiences abroad.
Example Search Keywords (English): "Digital Nomad Osaka", "coworking spaces Osaka"

Conclusion: Comparing Search Trends

The search trends from the United States, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Canada, and Australia provide valuable insights into the interests of international visitors considering Japan as a destination. Each country's unique preferences reflect differing motivations for visiting Japan, whether for work, leisure, or long-term stays.

• Share houses and Japanese cuisine are universally popular, but specific preferences differ by country. Visitors from Canada and Australia, for example, show strong interest in affordable housing options such as share houses, while Hong Kong visitors focus more on high-end dining experiences.
• Job opportunities, particularly remote work, are a key area of interest for US and UK visitors. The rise of digital nomads has increased demand for flexible work options in Japan, especially in cities like Osaka, which offer lower living costs than Tokyo.
• Visitors from Hong Kong are primarily focused on luxury dining experiences and restaurant reviews, with searches for high-end establishments such as "Yakiniku Inoue Ginza" and "Sushi Namba Hibiya". This suggests that fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants are major attractions for this group.
• Searches from South Korea emphasize a mix of part-time job opportunities and dining experiences. South Korean visitors, especially students, are keen on finding part-time work while exploring Japan's culinary scene, as seen in their interest in places like "Yakiniku Jambo Hanare".
• Digital nomads from Canada and Australia demonstrate a growing interest in coworking spaces and remote offices, particularly in Osaka. With lower living costs and an emerging infrastructure for remote work, Osaka is positioning itself as a digital nomad hub.

Understanding these distinct trends allows businesses and service providers in Japan to tailor their offerings to meet the diverse needs of international visitors. For example, promoting affordable share houses and coworking spaces can attract digital nomads from countries like Canada and Australia, while high-end dining experiences and fine-dining promotions may better appeal to visitors from Hong Kong. Additionally, highlighting remote work opportunities and part-time job options can cater to the interests of visitors from the US, UK, and South Korea.

As Japan continues to evolve as a top destination for both tourism and work, adapting services to match the varied preferences of visitors from different countries will be key to ensuring long-term success in the inbound market.

Frequently Asked Questions