Uzbekistan is rapidly emerging as a major travel destination for Japanese tourists, with visitor numbers from Japan surging by 162% in 2025, according to official data. More than 32,000 Japanese travelers visited the country last year, reflecting growing interest in Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage, modern infrastructure and improved accessibility.
The rise forms part of a broader tourism boom. In 2025, Uzbekistan welcomed nearly 12 million international visitors, reinforcing its position as one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing tourism markets.
Officials attribute the sharp increase in Japanese arrivals to targeted promotion, visa liberalisation and infrastructure upgrades. Japanese travel agency Club Tourism International Inc. has played a key role by developing tailored tour packages and hosting promotional events in Japan, including a recent showcase in Nagoya that drew strong interest.
Cities along the historic Silk Road remain central to Uzbekistan’s appeal. Samarkand and Bukhara, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, continue to attract visitors with their iconic mosques, madrasas and mausoleums, while Tashkent is positioning itself as a modern gateway city with upgraded transport, hotels and cultural venues.
Authorities say simplified visa procedures, expanded flight connectivity and sustained international marketing campaigns are expected to further boost arrivals from Japan in 2026 and beyond, as Uzbekistan strengthens its reputation as a safe, diverse and culturally rich destination.
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