Global Perspectives: TokudAw Featured on BBC Newshour. And a Personal Opinion on Addressing the Future of Inclusive Travel
We are honored to share that TokudAw was recently featured on BBC Newshour, one of the world’s most respected global news programs. Our Managing Director joined the broadcast to provide expert analysis on how current diplomatic tensions between China and Japan are reshaping the travel industry.
In a conversation that reached millions of listeners worldwide, we explored the critical need for market diversification and the human stories behind the shifting geopolitical landscape.
Listen to the full interview on BBC Newshour: BBC World Service – Newshour, December 2025
Resilience Through Diversification
During the interview, we highlighted that while geopolitical friction has led to a cooling of arrivals from mainland China, the overall story of Japanese tourism in 2025 is one of incredible resilience. According to the latest JNTO data (January–November 2025), international arrivals have already reached a record 39.06 million, significantly outpacing previous years.
The strength of the industry now lies in its diversity. Key markets continue to drive demand, proving that Japan's appeal transcends regional diplomatic shifts:
MarketTotal Arrivals (2025 YTD)South Korea8,485,300China8,765,800Taiwan6,175,000United States3,036,000Australia937,100
Mindful Journeys: The Heart of TokudAw
At TokudAw, we believe travel is more than just "selling a destination" - it is about mindful journeys that create meaningful connections. Our agency was born from a personal journey; as a foreigner in Japan, I experienced the ups and downs of cross-cultural communication firsthand. You may read more about my story here. Those experiences inspired me to create a platform where communication is fun, respectful, and bridges the gap between different worlds.
We primarily serve a global community from the United States, Australia, Singapore, and Taiwan, focusing on making Japan a truly enriching destination for travelers with diverse needs:
Multi-Generational Family Travel: Curated experiences that bridge the gap between young children and grandparents.
Corporate & Business Solutions: Professional on-ground logistics and bespoke itineraries for global organizations.
Accessible & Inclusive Travel: A core commitment to ensuring Japan’s wonders are available to everyone, regardless of mobility or physical requirements.
Our Ongoing Commitment to an Inclusive Society
During the BBC interview, we reflected on the current diplomatic situation. While it is saddening to see flight suspensions and political barriers, we believe that in a global community, we can all be friends and collaborators. At TokudAw, we are committed to being a part of creating a more inclusive society where people from all over the world can connect authentically.
We live this mission through our core pillars:
Reliable Navigation: We prioritize safety, comfort, and detail. Our tone is professional, caring, and reassuring, ensuring travelers feel protected and supported at every step.
Cultural Authenticity & "Treasure Sessions": We bridge cultures with respect and authenticity, highlighting Japan’s richness without stereotypes. To foster true understanding, we have developed a series of experiences with our selected artisans called Treasure Sessions. These are intentionally designed for effective communication, creating an avenue for genuine exchange and the hope of future collaborations between travelers and local creators.
Intentional Craftsmanship: Every journey is crafted with intention. We listen deeply, solve problems creatively, and personalize experiences to reflect the uniqueness of each customer. We believe that everyone is different, and we offer full flexibility during both planning and the tour itself.
Moving Forward Together
As we look toward the future, TokudAw remains dedicated to the belief that every journey is an opportunity to build a bridge. By championing mindful exploration and fostering deep, personal connections, we aim to transform the way the world experiences Japan. We invite you to join us in creating a travel landscape that is not only resilient in the face of change but also more compassionate, inclusive, and connected. Whether you are seeking a family milestone or a professional collaboration, we are here to listen, to guide, and to ensure that your story becomes a part of Japan’s rich and welcoming tapestry.
