From a niche interest to a global pop culture phenomenon, there is no denying that "anime and cartoons" today represent a powerful soft power. They not only captivate audiences on screens but also inspire fans to pack their bags and fly across continents to experience these virtual worlds firsthand. This has sparked a trend known as "Seichi Junrei" (pilgrimage to sacred places) among Japanese fans, which is generating significant economic waves in tourism throughout Asia.
The latest data from Trip.com as of May 2026 reveals clear insights into this emerging trend.
Searches skyrocket: Demand for anime-related trips and travel experiences in Asia has increased by 195% compared to the previous year, with primary tourist groups coming from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and South Korea.
Events as key destinations: Tickets for global-scale events like AnimeJapan 2026 have seen sales throughTrip.comrise by 697%, with over half of attendees belonging to Gen Z and Millennials (ages 25-34).
Hotel bookings soar: During conventions, hotel reservations within a 3-kilometer radius of event venues increase significantly—for example, Odaiba in Tokyo (host of Summer Comiket 2026) experienced a 78% surge in accommodation bookings.
This phenomenon is no accident but the result of online streaming platforms that have made stories like One Piece, Demon Slayer, and Naruto accessible worldwide. Another key factor is the "community" aspect: more than 80% of fans feel that attending festivals or visiting real locations allows them to connect and share their passion with like-minded people in the real world.
Modern travelers seek more than just photo spots; they want deeply immersive experiences such as:
Legendary photo spots: The railway crossing near Kamakura-Koko-mae Station from Slam Dunk remains bustling with fans from around the world, including Thai visitors.
Sacred otaku neighborhoods: Akihabara and Ikebukuro continue to be shopper paradises, with hotel bookings rising by 10%.
Anime-themed accommodations and amusement parks: Japan’s The Farm resort offers glamping rooms themed on the anime Frieren for overnight enjoyment, while Universal Studios Japan collaborates with five major franchises (such as Detective Conan) to create immersive rides and storywalk experiences that transport visitors into other dimensions.
Today, "anime" is more than just cartoons; it is a powerful connector of people and one of Asia’s strongest magnets for travelers. This pop culture tourism is growing and evolving to welcome fans worldwide without end.