New Japan–Bangkok Services Strengthen Thailand–Japan Connectivity
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has marked a key development in regional connectivity with the introduction of three Japan–Bangkok services operated by Thai AirAsia X and Thai Lion Air. The new routes from Sendai, Hokkaido, and Osaka expand short-haul access to Thailand. They are expected to support year-end travel demand from one of the country’s important international markets.
Miss Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, said, “These new connections from Sendai, Hokkaido, and Osaka reflect the confidence of our airline partners in Thailand’s tourism outlook. Enhanced air access is essential for maintaining travel flows from Japan. TAT will continue working with carriers to support steady and sustainable market development. With increasing interest among younger Japanese travellers, Thailand is prepared to offer experiences that align with their evolving travel interests.”
Japan remains a strong inbound market for Thailand, contributing consistent revenue and maintaining stable travel year-round. TAT is pursuing a dual-track strategy: supporting established traveller segments while expanding reach among new audiences, particularly Millennial and Gen Z visitors exploring Thailand for the first time. Strengthening partnerships with airlines and increasing seat capacity are central to this approach.
Thai AirAsia X launched its four-times-weekly Sendai–Bangkok service on 1 December 2025. The inaugural flight carried more than 100 youth football players from the Tohoku region to Bangkok for matches and training activities. Their arrival coincided with the launch of TAT’s “Enjoy Training in Thailand” initiative, designed to position Thailand as a year-round training destination for youth athletes and coaches from Japan. The programme includes planned collaborations with sports clubs to host recurring training camps and strengthen Thailand’s profile as a sports training hub.
Thai Lion Air introduced its three-times-weekly Hokkaido–Bangkok service on 1 December 2025 and followed with the launch of its four-times-weekly Osaka–Bangkok service on 2 December 2025, enhancing connectivity from major Japanese gateways.
Between 1 January and 30 November 2025, Thailand welcomed 985,612 visitors from Japan, a year-on-year increase of 4.16 per cent. Most travellers arrived as FIT visitors, spending an average of 39,000 Baht per trip and staying an average of 6.04 days. Popular destinations included Bangkok, Chon Buri, Phuket, Ayutthaya, and Chiang Mai. Continued demand supports Thailand’s target of attracting more than one million Japanese visitors by the end of 2025.
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