In March, the monthly number of foreign visitors to Japan surpassed three million for the first time, up 11.6 percent from March 2019 before the Covid pandemic torpedoed tourism
The Ameya-Yokocho in Ueno, one of the busiest open-air markets in Tokyo during the golden week holiday on April 30, 2024. Image credit: Photography Philip FONG / AFP
Foreign tourists are flocking to Japan in record numbers and thanks to a sliding yen many are living like kings, splashing out on everything from kimonos to knives and slap-up meals.
"I bought three pairs of shoes, which is something I would never normally do," French tourist Katia Lelievre, 36, said with a laugh in the bustling Asakusa area of Tokyo famous for its Buddhist temple and souvenir shops.
The brands available in Japan are the same as in Europe -- Converse, Nike and Adidas -- but because of the exchange rate "it was really worth it" to buy, she told AFP.
"The food is really cheap. (I spent a lot) especially on food. I tried everything I wanted," Dominique Stabile, 31, visiting from Italy, told AFP.
"I had a budget set and I didn't exceed it, so I'm happy."