Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced a promotional campaign for round-trip flights from Haneda to Yamaguchi Ube, offering travel subsidies and local tours. This initiative follows Yamaguchi City's recognition as one of The New York Times' "52 Places to Go in 2024." The announcement was made on the social media platform X.
According to travel writer Craig Mod, Yamaguchi City was ranked third on the list due to its peaceful streets, the stunning Ruriko-ji Temple, and an authentic local atmosphere. Mod described Yamaguchi as the "Kyoto of the West," highlighting its cultural significance and lack of mass tourism compared to more popular destinations. This recognition has inspired JAL's special summer campaign promoting flights and tours to the region.
As reported by the official Yamaguchi Prefecture tourism website, Yamaguchi City is known for its historic shrines, scenic onsen areas, and the iconic five-story pagoda at Ruriko-ji Temple. Its inclusion as the only Japanese destination on The New York Times list underscores its unique position as a hidden gem within Japan's travel landscape. JAL's campaign aims to encourage travelers to explore these features while benefiting from promotional flight subsidies.