A recent wave of panic over an unfounded earthquake prediction in Japan has given way to a dramatic surge in travel bookings, as Hong Kong tourists rush to revisit the popular destination.
The rumor, which falsely claimed a massive earthquake would strike Japan on July 5, initially dampened travel enthusiasm among Hong Kong residents. However, with the date passing without incident, travel agencies have reported an explosive rebound in demand.
Worldwide Package Travel Service, or WWPKG, a leading Japanese tour operator, revealed that inquiries and bookings have skyrocketed nearly tenfold, with most travelers opting for trips between August and September.
Online travel platform Expedia also confirmed the trend, reporting a 95 percent spike in flight searches from Hong Kong to Tokyo following the debunked prediction—the highest surge since early this year.
Nearly a quarter of these searches were for departures within the next 15 to 31 days, indicating strong last-minute summer travel demand.
Greater Bay Airlines noted a similar trend, with ticket sales multiplying after July 5, particularly among younger travelers. The airline's website and Instagram traffic surged by over 300,000 visits, signaling a "revenge travel" wave to Japan.
To capitalize on the renewed interest, multiple agencies have rolled out promotions.
WWPKG introduced budget-friendly group tours to Osaka, Kyushu, and Hokkaido, priced between HK$5,999 and HK$9,999, with a "buy one, get one half-off" deal bringing costs as low as HK$2,999 per person.
The packages also include an earthquake protection guarantee, offering full refunds if a magnitude 5.0 or higher quake disrupts travel plans.
Yuen Chun-ning, WWPKG’s executive director, expressed optimism, stating that the rebound has exceeded expectations.
He attributed the surge to added safety assurances as a key factor in restoring traveler confidence.
Meanwhile, Expedia data showed Osaka and Fukuola flight searches rising by 80 percent and 85 percent, respectively, while hotel searches for Japanese destinations jumped 40 percent, with Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto leading the pack.
With the false alarm behind them, Hong Kong travelers are now seizing the opportunity to explore Japan’s summer festivals, scenic escapes, and cultural attractions, proving that not even an earthquake scare can keep them away for long.
(Marco Lam)
