Malaysian visitors to Japan fell 19.5% in September 2026 (35,300), but January–September is still up 12.1%

This week's news · Checked 2026-10-22

What happened. JNTO said on 21 October 2026 that Japan received 3,103,700 foreign visitors in September 2026, down 5.0% on September 2025 (preliminary JNTO estimate). China fell most again: 430,800, −44.5%. South Korea 842,300 (+25.6%) and Taiwan 595,600 (+13.0%) grew. Malaysia 35,300, −19.5% (September 2025: 43,826). For January–September, Malaysia is 456,400, +12.1% (2025: 407,042). In Southeast Asia that month, only Singapore grew (+6.2%); Indonesia −0.2%, Vietnam −9.2%, Thailand −12.6%, the Philippines −17.1%. The JNTO release gives no reason for the Malaysian drop.

What it means for you.

• One month down, the year still up. August was +23%, September −19.5%; the nine-month total is still +12.1%. Don't assume December will be quiet.
• Rooms for four are still scarce. For the December school holidays, lock in the family room first, then flights. Real prices in Tokyo: cheap Tokyo hotels for families, December school holidays.
• These numbers say nothing about hotel prices. Check your own dates: Tokyo rooms for 2 adults + 2 children on Trip.com.

Affiliate links may be used; your price doesn't change. Source: JNTO, "Number of visitor arrivals to Japan 3,103,700 in September 2026" (English, 21 October 2026; 2026 figures are preliminary estimates, 2025 definitive). Checked 22 October 2026.