Япония. Travel digest

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published the outcomes of several digital‑identity proof‑of‑concept trials carried out together with airlines, airports, technology partners and government agencies across Europe and the Asia‑Pacific region.

The trials showed that a biometric‑enabled, wallet‑based digital identity can fully replace traditional paper passports

Japan has supplied a set of airport equipment to Laos under a grant‑aid scheme, aimed at upgrading the country's civil aviation facilities and improving regional connectivity.

The aid, part of the Economic and Development Programme launched in 2021, was officially handed over on 1 April at Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport. The programme provides 21 different types of

SÉZANNE, the celebrated French restaurant located in Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, has again been placed among the top 50 dining venues in Asia, securing the 16th position in the 2026 edition of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.

The award ceremony took place in Hong Kong, where Executive Chef Daniel Calvert and Executive Sous‑Chef Ashley Caley represented the restaurant.

This spring Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto announces that The Lounge & Bar will be renamed SEY. The venue stays at the same location in the Higashiyama district, but its concept, menu and ambience have been completely redesigned.

SEY welcomed its first guests on 1 April 2026. The bar blends modern mixology with timeless Japanese rituals, while offering uninterrupted views of the

Tapasake Maldives, the signature restaurant situated on the private island of the One&Only Reethi Rah resort, will welcome Chef Norimasa Kosaka for a series of exclusive culinary events in March 2026. The programme includes a collaborative “four‑hands” dinner with resident chef Ahmed Jameel and a dedicated sushi night at the over‑water venue.

Blending Japanese techniques

Time Out’s latest global survey has identified the ten most appealing cities for 2026. The study collected responses from 24 000 participants across 150 cities worldwide.

Australian metropolis Melbourne secured the first position, with China’s Shanghai taking second place, and Scotland’s historic capital Edinburgh ranking third.

The remaining cities in

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto announces that Marco Fregnan has joined the property as the new Chef de Cuisine of its flagship restaurant, EMBA KYOTO GRILL. The Italian-born chef brings more than 20 years of experience from prestigious kitchens in Italy, Singapore and Japan.

Chef Fregnan’s culinary philosophy centres on fire‑grilling techniques that accentuate the natural flavours

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, a new digital solution integrated into the existing DG AutoCheck platform. The tool enables the complete electronic creation, transmission and approval of dangerous‑goods declarations for more than 3,800 regulated items, ranging from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals.

Today, about 95 % of

When the cherry blossoms burst into bloom, Tokyo’s historic gardens and modern avenues are transformed into a pink‑tinted landscape. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi celebrates this fleeting beauty with a series of curated culinary and wellness offerings, all set against panoramic city views.

The hotel provides direct access to prime hanami spots, allowing guests to enjoy

Japan has granted USD 17,400 under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) to finance a new water‑supply facility in Meuteun village, Phongsaly Province. The project is intended to improve local access to safe and hygienic water.

The grant agreement was signed by Japanese Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu and the chairman of the Phongsaly Provincial Administrative

The Japanese Embassy in Laos organized a National Day reception on 26 February at the ambassador’s residence in Vientiane, to celebrate the 66th birthday of Emperor Naruhito (officially observed on 23 February).

The gathering brought together foreign diplomats, senior Lao officials, performers and members of the Lao‑Japanese community, highlighting the close partnership between

The strong performance of the 2025 WTTC Global Summit in Rome has triggered a wave of applications from destinations eager to host upcoming editions. Fifteen locations across four continents have formally submitted expressions of interest, underscoring renewed confidence in the travel and tourism sector.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), representing the private‑sector

The Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi is now accepting bookings for stays commencing on 29 April 2026, following a comprehensive refurbishment.

Renovated under the direction of André Fu Studio, the property now presents a “contemporary manor” aesthetic that blends traditional Japanese elements with a sleek, cosmopolitan feel. The arrival lobby has been re‑imagined as a modern Japanese

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi has announced that Stephen Lancaster will take over as executive chef, responsible for the hotel’s overall culinary program and its acclaimed three‑Michelin‑star French restaurant, SÉZANNE, effective 1 April 2026.

He follows Daniel Calvert, under whose guidance SÉZANNE earned a place among the world’s most celebrated dining venues. Calvert

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published its 2025 full‑year and December 2025 passenger market results, showing a new peak in demand.

Overall passenger traffic measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK) grew 5.3 % compared with 2024, while the available seat kilometres (ASK) increased by 5.2 %. The global load factor reached a record 83.6 % for the year.

When winter settles over Kyoto, the city takes on a hushed, contemplative atmosphere. Fewer tourists and crisp air reveal the capital’s historic charm in a more intimate way, making it an ideal moment for reflection and leisurely exploration.

Set amidst an 800‑year‑old garden pond, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto offers a tranquil refuge where guests can fully appreciate the season’s

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published the November 2025 figures for worldwide passenger traffic. The main highlights are:

Kyoto is not just a city — it is a living poem, where every street breathes history, aesthetics, and timeless beauty. Among its many iconic districts, Pontocho stands out as one of the most atmospheric and emotionally rich neighborhoods. When evening falls, the soft glow of lanterns illuminates narrow wooden facades, the scent of traditional cuisine fills the air, and the quiet silhouettes of geisha

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto introduces a limited‑edition box of artisanal chocolates that echo the colours and aromas of the four Japanese seasons. The selection comprises five unique flavours:

Amid the quiet of mid‑winter, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto presents a vibrant celebration dedicated to Japanese strawberries, renowned for reaching their peak flavor and shine during the cold months.

Guests can enjoy a range of seasonal creations, from limited‑time desserts and takeaway treats to a specially designed afternoon tea, all featuring the prized Amaou variety – one of