Japan sent 1.5 million visitors to Hawai‘i in 2019. In 2024? We’re not even at half that. But if Aloha Tokyo was any indication, the passion for the islands is alive and well.
I was in town for WiT Japan & North Asia, but the aloha was at Ebisu Garden Place, where tens of thousands gathered for ALOHA TOKYO, a three-day celebration of all things Hawai‘i. The only hotel brand showing up? Outrigger. Full sponsor, full presence, full commitment. I caught up with the crew—Sean Dee, Danny Ojiri, Luana Maitland, and more. Great to see the local ‘ohana flying the flag abroad.
Even the rain couldn’t wash out the vibe, but by Sunday, it was all sunshine, shaved ice, and long (very Japanese) queues for hula shows, Hawaiian snacks, and selfies with familiar faces. There was real buzz around Auana, the Cirque du Soleil show at the Outrigger Beachcomber. I’ve seen it—it lives up to the hype. And of course, Lilo and Stitch. The line to take a picture with a Stitch statue was insane!
The trip left me hopeful. Japan’s recovery is slow, yes—but the desire is there. As exchange rates stabilize and flights (hopefully) return to pre-pandemic volume, demand should follow. However, it will probably be a few more lean years before it does.
