As the Golden Week holiday period unfolded from April 25 to May 6, 2025, JR Group reported a 3% increase in the number of users of Shinkansen and limited express trains compared to the previous year. This uptick is largely attributed to the ongoing Osaka/Kansai Expo, which has drawn significant attention, and the impending return of giant pandas to China, creating a rush among visitors eager to see these beloved animals before they leave.
On May 7, 2025, the JR Group highlighted that despite the scattered nature of the holiday, ridership was steady, marking a notable recovery in travel patterns as the nation continues to rebound from the pandemic. The figures indicate a stronger performance than last year, even as the total remains down by 4% compared to 2018, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
JR Central emerged as the standout performer among the regional rail operators, with a 5% year-on-year growth in ridership. This increase can be linked to the heightened interest in the Expo and a surge in international tourists visiting Japan. Meanwhile, JR Hokkaido and JR Kyushu experienced a slight decline, each reporting a 1% drop in usage.
The Tokaido Shinkansen, a crucial corridor connecting Tokyo with Osaka, also saw a 5% increase in ridership, bolstered by the Expo and an influx of foreign visitors. JR West reported that both its Sanyo and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines recorded a 3% increase, attributing this growth to the Expo's positive impact on travel.
One of the most significant increases came from JR West's limited express service, the "Kuroshio," which experienced a remarkable 23% surge in ridership. This spike is largely driven by the impending return of the giant pandas at Adventure World in Shirahama Town, Wakayama Prefecture, set for the end of June. Many visitors are eager to catch a glimpse of the pandas before they depart, leading to a rush in bookings.
International travel also played a pivotal role in the ridership increase. The Narita Express, which connects Narita Airport to central Tokyo, reported a 9% increase in passengers, while JR West's Haruka service, which links Kansai International Airport with Osaka and Kyoto, saw an impressive 13% rise in usage. These figures reflect a growing confidence in travel among both domestic and international travelers.
As the travel industry continues to recover, the impact of events like the Osaka/Kansai Expo cannot be overstated. With millions of visitors expected to flock to the region, the rail services are poised to play a crucial role in accommodating this influx. The Expo serves not only as a major attraction but also as a catalyst for renewed interest in travel across Japan.
JR Group's optimistic outlook comes as the nation navigates the post-pandemic landscape, with travel patterns gradually returning to normal. The increase in ridership during Golden Week is a promising sign for the future, indicating that people are once again ready to explore and experience the sights and sounds of Japan.
In summary, the Golden Week data reflects a combination of factors, including the allure of the Osaka/Kansai Expo and the return of giant pandas, which have collectively contributed to a notable increase in rail travel across the country. As Japan continues to recover from the pandemic, these developments signal a positive turn for the tourism and transportation sectors.
