Carrier expands Asia portfolio with new Japan itineraries 

Carrier has added Japan to its product portfolio following a “significant” rise in demand for the destination over the last 18 months.  

In 2024, the operator’s average booking value for Japan was £75,000 and the destination featured in Carrier’s highest-ever booking of more than £2 million. 

Itineraries span Tokyo, Kyoto, the central east and west regions and the Setouchi region, featuring stays at well-known luxury hotel brands such as Aman, The Ritz-Carlton, Capella and Six Senses as well as a selection of boutique properties and traditional ryokans.

Guests can partake in experiences such as a sushi lesson with a private chef, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or a helicopter ride over the Hakone area. 

The portfolio includes three sample itineraries, but all trips are customisable to suit clients’ individual preferences. 

Carrier’s head of product, Rebecca Turner, said: “We’re thrilled to be officially launching Japan. Despite not promoting or featuring it on our website, we saw a significant rise in demand towards the end of 2023, with strong organic revenue and growth since. 

“We’ve taken the time to understand the market and define what Carrier can uniquely offer – our focus is firmly on high-end, high-quality experiences rather than broad market coverage.”

She added: “We’ve had key personalities choose Carrier for their Japan travels, and we’re excited to officially roll out this destination as demand continues to grow.”

Product manager for individual touring, Deepavali Gaind, said: “This has been a long time in the making. We’ve carefully curated our Japan offering to ensure it meets the expectations of our clients and agents. Our product centres around high-quality, personalised and private experiences – designed to help clients connect deeply with Japan’s people, nature and culture. 

“We want travellers to experience the country’s refined traditions and forward-thinking spirit. Every itinerary is crafted with the pursuit of perfection in mind, aiming to create those rare, unforgettable ‘ichi-go ichi-e’ moments – meaning ‘once in a lifetime’.”

She added: “Relationships and respect are everything in Japan, and we’ve built a trusted network of partners on the ground. We’re confident in the small selection of hotels we feature, and our ground handlers are fully aligned with Carrier’s strategy – something that’s incredibly important to us.”