Image by Rafik Wahba

Japan and China See Rising Interest Among SEA Travelers Ahead of Hari Raya

Agoda data shows a 55% month-on-month jump in accommodation searches from Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore for the Hari Raya period, with China posting a 7% year-on-year rise.

Agoda marks a 55% month-on-month increase in accommodation searches from travelers in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore for check-ins during the Hari Raya festive period of 20 to 23 March 2026.

Bali remains the most searched destination among travelers from these origins, with Yogyakarta, Bandung, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo following.

Hari Raya, or Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan and is a time for reunion, celebration and time with loved ones. Travel demand typically rises as people return to hometowns, visit family, or plan a short break after a month of spiritual focus.

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During the festive season, close-to-home destinations such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand remain popular. Agoda also observes increased interest in destinations including Japan and China.

Image by Tomáš Malík

“Traditionally, travel during cultural festive periods meant returning home, but we’re observing a change in preference as many look beyond familiar destinations. Japan and China, for example, are growing in appeal this festive season as they become more accessible through measures like eased visa rules and new, unique experiences,” said Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply, Agoda.

“When travel is made easier, interest follows. Hotels that recognise these trends and remove booking friction – by offering localised experiences, tailored content in the traveler’s language and convenient local payment options – will be best placed to capture growth this festive season.”

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China ranked as one of the top five destinations for travelers from Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, with a 7% year-on-year increase in accommodation searches during the Hari Raya festive period.

This momentum is amplified by the market’s expansion of visa-exemption and eased transit rules, which have reduced friction for travelers, according to China’s State Council.

In Japan, broader appeal comes as the country looks to grow inbound tourism over the longer term. Reports by the World Economic Forum state the government has set a target of attracting 60 million foreign tourists annually by 2030, alongside efforts to welcome a broader range of travelers.

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