With spring in full swing, Norang Balloon analyzed overseas package bookings for March–April and found reservations up about 20% year over year. Japan (25%) and China (24%) led demand, followed by Vietnam (19%), Thailand (7%), and the Philippines (5%).
Japan accounted for the largest share overall, led by Kyushu (33.4%), Osaka (21.9%), and Hokkaido (14.3%). Kyushu drew travelers with easy access and onsen-focused itineraries; Osaka appealed to those who wanted major sights paired with flexible free time; and Hokkaido attracted nature-seekers with scenic, sightseeing-driven packages.
Bookings also rose for smaller Honshu cities like Saga, Nagoya, and Matsuyama. Expanded offerings that include onsen-hotel stays and nature or sightseeing-focused schedules have widened options beyond the usual big-city routes.
Since the visa waiver took effect, China has remained near the top, with Hong Kong–Macau (18.7%), Qingdao (15.1%), and Zhangjiajie (14.4%) most booked. Hong Kong–Macau packages typically pair city touring with free time in a semi-package format, while Qingdao and Zhangjiajie offerings emphasize direct flights, massage experiences, and key tour options to keep extra costs down.
Notably, bookings for Shanghai-area itineraries that add nearby spots like Hangzhou, Wuzhen, and Zhujiajiao jumped roughly fourfold year over year. Travelers favored no-option/no-shopping formats, consecutive nights at upscale hotels, multi-city connections, and packages that include previously optional tours—features that boosted convenience and helped drive the surge.
In Vietnam, Da Nang (34.4%), Nha Trang (30.7%), and Phu Quoc (20.3%) dominated bookings. Packages that offer resort stays for the entire trip, plenty of downtime, massage experiences, and special meals—capturing that classic Southeast Asian chill vibe—remained especially popular.
Meanwhile, Norang Balloon is running a “NONONO Travel” promotion through April 30 that follows a no-tip, no-option, no-shopping concept. The campaign is designed to cut unnecessary extra costs and schedule hassles so travelers can focus on enjoying the trip itself.
To address rising travel costs from recent fuel-surcharge hikes, the company is also offering packages built on pre‑secured airline seats to minimize the impact of surcharge fluctuations. The lineup covers routes from short- to long-haul, giving travelers a wider range of choices.
Photo: Norang Balloon
