Tourists and Locals Delight in the Fleeting Beauty of Tokyo’s Cherry Blossoms
Every spring, Tokyo transforms into a breathtaking sea of pink and white as cherry blossoms, or sakura, burst into bloom. This ephemeral spectacle draws tourists from around the world and captivates locals, who take part in time-honoured hanami (flower viewing) traditions. The cherry blossom season, lasting only a couple of weeks, is a much-anticipated event in Japan. The sight of delicate petals dancing in the breeze symbolises renewal and the fleeting nature of life, a sentiment deeply rooted in Japanese culture. In Tokyo, iconic spots such as Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and the Meguro River become prime locations for picnics, strolls, and photography, as visitors marvel at the beauty of…
StarCruises and Dream Cruises celebrate spectacular official launch
StarCruises, the revitalized successor of the legendary Star Cruises brand, alongside the iconic Dream Cruises brand, has officially relaunched its legacy with a grand ceremonial event aboard the Star Voyager in Singapore. This marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for both brands, which has over 30 years of history, now revitalized with a fresh and innovative vision for the future of cruising. The launch of both brands coincided with the Star Voyager’s maiden voyage under the StarCruises banner with a US$ 50 million refit of the ship, sailing out from the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC). Singapore will serve as a key homeport as well as a destination, alongside…
Japan Speeds Up Implementation of eVisa for Travellers
Japan is poised to expedite the introduction of its electronic travel authorisation system, known as JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization), aiming to streamline entry procedures and bolster border security. This initiative mirrors systems like the United States’ ESTA and Australia’s ETA, requiring travellers from visa-exempt countries to obtain prior online authorisation before arrival. Initially slated for a later launch, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced plans to accelerate JESTA’s implementation to manage the anticipated surge in tourism leading up to 2030. The government aims to enhance infrastructure and modernise regional entry points, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors. Under JESTA, citizens from 71 visa-exempt nations, including the…
Japan Introduces Entry Fee for Mount Fuji Hikers
Beginning in the summer of 2025, climbers aiming to ascend Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji will encounter new regulations designed to address environmental concerns and manage increasing tourist numbers. A mandatory entry fee of 4,000 yen (approximately RM120) will be imposed on all individuals using the mountain’s four principal trails during the peak climbing season, which spans from July to September. This initiative represents a significant shift from previous policies. Historically, the Yoshida Trail in Yamanashi Prefecture required a voluntary contribution of 1,000 yen, later increased to a mandatory 2,000 yen fee. The other three trails in Shizuoka Prefecture—Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya—were accessible without charge. The recent decision by local authorities…
Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines & Scoot Prohibit Power Bank Charging Onboard
Considering recent safety concerns, several prominent airlines, including Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines (SIA), and its subsidiary Scoot, have announced bans on the use and charging of power banks during flights. These measures aim to enhance passenger and crew safety following incidents involving overheating lithium-ion batteries. Thai Airways’ Proactive Measures Effective from 15 March 2025, Thai Airways will prohibit passengers from using or charging power banks onboard its aircraft. While travellers can still carry these devices in their hand luggage, in-flight usage is strictly forbidden. This decision aligns with guidelines from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), which also bans power banks in checked baggage due to potential fire hazards…
