Travellers Warned as Heavy Snow, Strong Winds, and Rough Seas Disrupt Japan’s Transport in Late December 2025: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Japan is currently under active winter weather warnings, with heavy snow, powerful winds, and very rough seas expected along the Sea of Japan side and in northern and western regions through late December 2025.

Heavy Snow Warnings in Effect Across Multiple Regions

The JMA’s official alert system shows that warning‑level heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions are forecast in several parts of Hokkaido, Tohoku, Hokuriku, Kinki, and San’in regions, especially along the Sea of Japan coast and mountainous areas. These conditions are expected to persist through late 26 and into 27 December 2025, with snow accumulations in some locations exceeding 50–70 centimetres in short periods.

The forecasts also confirm strong winds accompanying snow in northern and western Japan, which can reduce visibility and create blizzard‑like conditions. Roads may become impassable due to snowdrifts, and mountain passes are particularly at risk.

Forecasters Confirm Rough Seas and High Waves

In addition to heavy snowfall, marine warnings have been issued for rough seas and high waves along the Sea of Japan side. The JMA’s marine weather advisories indicate that significant swells and high wave heights are expected, which could disrupt ferry services, coastal travel and increase the danger for small vessels.

Seaside areas and harbours should anticipate storm‑level wave conditions, and travellers planning coastal crossings or boat excursions are advised to reconsider schedules or remain ashore until conditions improve.

Air and Land Transport Disruptions Anticipated

Based on the current weather outlook, air travel and ground transport are likely to face delays or cancellations:

• Flights: Snow and wind conditions at major airports, especially those serving northern Japan and Sea of Japan coastal cities, may cause delays or cancellations due to limited visibility and runway conditions.
• Trains: Rail services, particularly in Hokkaido and northern Honshu, may face operational delays or temporary stoppages where snow accumulation is heavy.
• Roads: Highways and local roads are at risk of closures due to snowdrifts and slippery surfaces. Even with snow tyres, travel may be hazardous.

What Travellers Need to Know Right Now

Here is what travellers should do immediately and before departure:

1. Monitor Official Weather Updates

Check the Japan Meteorological Agency’s official warnings and advisories regularly. The JMA updates hazard information including snowfall intensity, wind gust forecasts, and marine conditions that can change quickly.

Do not rely solely on general weather forecasts; ensure you are viewing warning‑level updates, which indicate conditions that may require behavioural changes or travel alterations.

2. Adjust Travel Plans and Allow Extra Time

Heavy snow and strong winds create unpredictable travel conditions:

• Leave earlier for trains and flights in case schedules change.
• Confirm tickets and departure times directly with airlines and rail operators a day before and on the day of travel.
• Avoid tight connections where possible.

3. Prepare for Rough Roads and Snow Conditions

If you must drive:

• Ensure winter tyres or snow chains are installed (mandatory in many snowy areas).
• Update navigation apps and traffic information to avoid closed roads.
• Pack emergency supplies including warm clothing, food, water, and a fully charged phone.

4. Reconsider Coastal and Marine Travel

Ferries and coastal services are particularly vulnerable to high waves and storm surge conditions. Unless absolutely necessary:

• Postpone or cancel ferry bookings if warnings remain in place.
• Avoid walking near sea walls and coastal promenades during periods of high swell.

5. Stay Safe During Outdoor Activities

Heavy snow and high winds in mountainous and rural areas increase the risk of:

• Avalanches
• Power outages
• Fallen trees and ice hazards on pathways

Outdoor excursions should be postponed until conditions stabilise. Hikers and skiers should check with local authorities for safety advisories.

Travellers Planning to Be in Japan Now

Japan is facing a significant winter weather event with heavy snow, powerful winds, and rough seas across northern and western regions. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued confirmed warnings affecting travel, transport and coastal safety. Travellers should prioritise checking official updates, adjust travel plans with extra time, and take strong safety precautions especially if travelling by road, rail, air or sea over the coming days. These steps will help ensure safety during a period of dynamic and potentially hazardous winter conditions.

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Beijing’s New Tongzhou Railway Station: A Game Changer for Travel and Tourism in 2025

A major milestone in the city’s transportation development is set to take place on December 30, 2025, with the official opening of the Tongzhou Railway Station. As the newest addition to Beijing’s transport network, this station promises to transform travel for both locals and tourists alike. It is set to become a key gateway for intercity rail travel, linking visitors to Beijing’s iconic attractions and surrounding regions with unprecedented speed and convenience.

What’s New at Tongzhou Railway Station?

Tongzhou Railway Station, strategically located in the Tongzhou District of eastern Beijing, will be the city’s most advanced and largest transportation hub. With five floors designed for seamless connections between railways, buses, and shuttles, this multi-modal station will significantly reduce travel time for passengers. Whether you’re heading to Beijing’s historic sites or venturing further to neighbouring cities, Tongzhou Railway Station will streamline your journey, making it easier to explore both the capital and nearby destinations.

Faster Travel to Beijing’s Iconic Landmarks

Tourists visiting Beijing will find the Tongzhou Railway Station an incredibly efficient way to access the city’s famous attractions, all while avoiding the typical traffic congestion in the city centre. The station is ideally connected to several intercity railway lines, including:

• The Beijing–Tangshan Intercity Railway, which will reduce travel time to Tangshan, a city known for its industrial heritage and cultural attractions.
• The Beijing–Tianjin Intercity Railway, which makes it easier for tourists to visit Tianjin, a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and mix of modern and colonial architecture.

For tourists arriving at Tongzhou Station, the new rail connections will provide quick, efficient access to major cultural and historical sites within Beijing. From the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square to the Great Wall of China, visitors can expect smoother, faster travel to these iconic spots.

Tourists’ New Gateway to Xinjiang and Beyond

While the station is an important link within Beijing itself, its impact extends well beyond the capital. The Tongzhou Railway Station will also act as a crucial transportation hub connecting travellers to Xinjiang, Hebei Province, and Tianjin Municipality, regions that are increasingly attracting tourists for their cultural heritage and natural beauty.

For example, visitors from Tangshan or Tianjin will now be able to travel quickly to Beijing for a day of sightseeing, thanks to the reduced travel times. The streamlined connections will allow tourists to explore Tianjin’s cultural landmarks, Hebei’s scenic parks, and Xinjiang’s stunning desert landscapes, all in a much shorter time frame. With the new station, tourists will have a seamless experience travelling across the northern cities of China, offering both ease and convenience.

The Convenience of Seamless Transfers and Improved Access

The new Tongzhou Railway Station not only enhances rail travel but also integrates other forms of public transportation, including buses and shuttle services, making it easier for tourists to get around. It will be connected to Beijing’s metro network, allowing tourists to easily transfer to various lines that lead to different parts of the city, whether it’s the Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, or modern districts like Sanlitun for shopping and dining.

What sets the station apart is its location in Tongzhou, a district strategically positioned between Beijing’s central urban areas and the outlying regions. This makes it an ideal stop for travellers who wish to explore the city and the suburbs without having to deal with the congestion of Beijing’s downtown traffic. Moreover, with high-speed trains and direct access to key tourist destinations, the station offers a convenient, efficient option for tourists to enjoy a hassle-free visit to the city.

Economic and Tourism Benefits for the Region

The opening of Tongzhou Railway Station comes at a time when China is focused on enhancing regional tourism and economic connectivity. As Beijing expands its tourism offerings, the station will attract more domestic and international tourists, facilitating smoother travel between Beijing and its surrounding provinces.

The convenience of high-speed rail connections will also encourage economic cooperation between Beijing and Tianjin, making it easier for businesses, tourists, and freight to move quickly and efficiently. This transport integration will boost tourism-related businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, by attracting more visitors to the region.

What to Expect from the Tongzhou Railway Station Opening

• Increased access to key tourist sites: Visitors can now reach major attractions like the Forbidden City or Summer Palace from surrounding cities in record time.
• Seamless transfer to other transport services: Easy connections to Beijing’s metro and bus systems provide an efficient solution for getting around the city.
• Faster travel between regions: Enhanced access to Tianjin, Hebei, and Xinjiang opens up new possibilities for multi‑city travel in China.
• Economic growth and tourism expansion: Improved connectivity will drive growth for Beijing’s tourism sector, benefiting local businesses and attracting more visitors to the city.

A New Chapter for Beijing’s Tourism

With the opening of Tongzhou Railway Station, Beijing’s travel landscape is set to change. For tourists, the new station offers a gateway to convenience and a smoother, faster journey through one of the world’s most historically rich and vibrant cities. Whether you’re visiting Beijing for the first time or returning for a deeper exploration, this new rail hub makes your trip even more accessible.

The Tongzhou Railway Station is just one example of how China is transforming its infrastructure to support sustainable tourism, while simultaneously making travel across Beijing and beyond faster and more enjoyable. Visitors can look forward to not only exploring Beijing’s ancient landmarks but also venturing to nearby regions, all while enjoying the ease of modern, high-speed transportation.

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Planning a Trip to Bali in 2026? Here’s What You Need to Know About New Visa Rules, Digital Entry Forms, and Tourism Levy

As Australians prepare to travel to Bali in 2026, they need to be aware of the new visa regulations, tourism levies, and entry requirements that will impact their trip. With the rise in international tourism, Bali’s government has introduced changes designed to streamline the entry process and ensure sustainable tourism growth. These updates include new digital travel forms, a tourism levy, and updated visa requirements.

New Digital Entry Requirements for Australian Travellers

One of the most significant changes for Australians travelling to Bali in 2026 is the introduction of a new digital entry process. Instead of filling out traditional paper forms, travellers will now be required to complete the All Indonesia Declaration Form online. This digital form consolidates health, customs, and immigration information into one easy-to-submit document.

To comply with these new rules, Australian travellers must complete the form within three days of their departure and present the QR code generated upon submission when they arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport. This form will simplify the immigration process and reduce wait times at the airport, making entry into Bali smoother and faster.

Bali’s New Tourism Levy: What to Expect

In addition to the updated entry process, Bali will implement a tourism levy of IDR 150,000 (approximately AUD 15) for all international visitors, including Australians. The levy, which will help fund environmental conservation and cultural preservation efforts in Bali, is expected to become a key feature of the island’s tourism model.

The levy is mandatory and will be collected as part of the entry process, either online before departure or upon arrival in Bali. This charge applies to all visitors, regardless of age, and is designed to enhance the long-term sustainability of tourism on the island.

Updated Visa Rules for Australian Tourists

In 2026, Australians visiting Bali will still be able to apply for the Visa on Arrival (VOA) or the electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA). The VOA allows for a 30-day stay with the option to extend for an additional 30 days. The e-VOA can be applied for online in advance, making the entry process even more seamless.

The cost for both types of visas is set at IDR 500,000 (around AUD 50), and the visa fees are separate from the tourism levy. Australians should also ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Bali. This is a non-negotiable requirement, and failure to meet this condition could result in denied entry.

Streamlined Entry Process and Faster Immigration

Indonesia’s new entry requirements are part of the country’s broader push to modernise its tourism infrastructure. The All Indonesia Declaration Form and the collection of the tourism levy online will contribute to a more efficient process for both passengers and immigration officials. This change will not only make the process easier for Australians travelling to Bali but will also help authorities better manage the influx of tourists.

With these streamlined procedures, the country aims to avoid long queues and reduce congestion at Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is often busy, especially during peak travel seasons. The integration of digital technologies in the immigration process reflects Indonesia’s commitment to improving the visitor experience, making Bali a more attractive destination for global travellers.

No COVID-19 Restrictions for Entry

As of 2026, Bali no longer requires COVID-19 vaccination proof for entry. This decision is in line with Indonesia’s efforts to resume normal tourism activities post-pandemic. While the COVID-19 pandemic impacted international travel for years, Bali has now fully reopened to tourists from around the world, including Australians. Visitors no longer need to present proof of vaccination or undergo quarantine upon arrival, making travel to Bali as easy as before the pandemic.

What Australian Travellers Should Do Before Their Trip

To ensure a smooth journey, Australians planning a trip to Bali in 2026 should:

1. Complete the All Indonesia Declaration Form online within three days of departure.
2. Pay the IDR 150,000 tourism levy either online or at the airport.
3. Ensure their passport has at least six months of validity from their intended arrival date.
4. Apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-VOA depending on their travel preference, ensuring that the visa is valid for at least 30 days and can be extended once.
5. Stay informed about the latest entry regulations by checking updates from the official Indonesian immigration website and Australian government travel advisories.

These measures are designed to enhance the tourism experience, contributing to Bali’s ongoing efforts to protect its environment and cultural heritage while welcoming more international visitors each year.

Embracing Bali’s Changes for a Smooth Travel Experience

As Bali continues to attract tourists from around the world, including a significant number of Australians, the island is evolving its entry and tourism processes to ensure a more sustainable future for travel. With the introduction of new digital forms, a tourism levy, and streamlined visa requirements, travellers can expect a faster, easier, and more efficient experience when visiting Bali in 2026.

By staying informed about the new regulations and preparing in advance, Australian tourists can enjoy everything Bali has to offer — from its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage — without unnecessary delays or complications. The future of tourism in Bali looks bright, and these changes are designed to keep it that way while offering visitors a seamless travel experience.

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Malaysia Airlines Takes Home ITTA 2025 Award as Most Improved International Airline: A Major Step Forward in Travel

In a remarkable achievement, Malaysia Airlines was officially recognised as the Most Improved International Airline at the Indonesia Travel & Tourism Awards (ITTA) 2025. The prestigious award ceremony took place in Jakarta and was attended by leaders from the global travel and tourism sector. This accolade underscores Malaysia Airlines’ unwavering commitment to enhancing its services, expanding its route network, and significantly improving customer experiences across its global operations.

The award, which celebrates airline excellence and service improvements, positions Malaysia Airlines as a key player in Southeast Asia’s aviation sector. It reflects the airline’s successful efforts to streamline operations, improve flight connectivity, and enhance its in-flight services. This recognition also highlights the airline’s successful strategies to adapt to the post-pandemic travel landscape, providing travelers with more reliable and comfortable options for flying between Malaysia and international destinations, particularly Indonesia.

A Leap Forward in Airline Excellence

Malaysia Airlines’ recognition at ITTA 2025 comes at a time when the airline has seen significant growth and improvements across multiple operational areas. The airline’s consistent focus on service quality and operational efficiency has paid off, with the ITTA judging panel acknowledging its commitment to bettering the customer experience. Over the past year, Malaysia Airlines has introduced new routes, expanded connectivity, and innovative services, all of which have contributed to its improved standing in the international aviation community.

The ITTA award ceremony highlighted not just Malaysia Airlines’ growth but also the broader changes within the aviation industry. Customer satisfaction, reliability, and service upgrades were at the core of the event’s theme, marking a shift towards passenger-centric solutions in a highly competitive market.

Strengthening Regional Ties and Connecting Southeast Asia

One of the key factors driving Malaysia Airlines’ recognition is its strategic efforts to expand its footprint in Indonesia. With Indonesia being a crucial market for Malaysia Airlines, the airline has introduced more flight routes connecting Malaysia with key Indonesian cities. This is part of the airline’s larger plan to strengthen its presence in Southeast Asia while promoting bilateral tourism and business travel between the two countries.

As part of this growth, Malaysia Airlines has launched several direct flight services from Kuala Lumpur to popular Indonesian destinations such as Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya. These new routes not only bolster Malaysia Airlines’ network but also cater to the growing demand for both leisure and business travel between the two nations.

The ITTA Recognition: A Symbol of Progress

The Indonesia Travel & Tourism Awards (ITTA) is one of the most prestigious award platforms in the ASEAN region. Known for its rigorous selection process, ITTA honours excellence in the tourism and travel sectors, including airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and destination management. Malaysia Airlines’ win as the Most Improved International Airline was a significant highlight of the event, cementing its position as a top choice for international travellers.

In its acceptance speech, Malaysia Airlines expressed its gratitude for the recognition, highlighting that this achievement was the result of years of hard work and dedication to customer satisfaction. The airline’s spokesperson mentioned that the award reflects the airline’s strategy of prioritizing service quality, building strong industry partnerships, and expanding regional routes to cater to evolving travel demands.

What This Means for Malaysia Airlines and Travel Industry Growth

This prestigious award is a testament to Malaysia Airlines’ focus on continuous improvement in a rapidly changing global market. By recognising the airline’s efforts to modernize its services and improve the overall traveller experience, ITTA has validated Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to excellence.

As the airline prepares to celebrate more milestones in the coming years, it will continue to focus on adapting to market changes, implementing sustainable travel practices, and investing in innovative technologies. These efforts are designed to offer passengers a seamless and enjoyable travel experience while maintaining Malaysia Airlines’ position as a leader in Southeast Asian aviation.

Moreover, the recognition at ITTA 2025 is a critical part of Malaysia Airlines’ broader vision to strengthen its role in the region’s aviation landscape. The airline’s emphasis on improving its international routes, expanding business partnerships, and enhancing digital services will ensure its continued success in the competitive global travel market.

A New Era for Malaysia Airlines

Looking ahead, Malaysia Airlines’ ITTA 2025 recognition sets the stage for an exciting future for the airline. With its ongoing focus on service enhancements, the airline is well-positioned to cater to the evolving demands of travellers in Southeast Asia and beyond. As the airline continues to innovate and strengthen its position in global markets, the ITTA award will serve as a reminder of the airline’s journey of improvement and the exceptional service that travellers can expect when flying with Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines’ win at ITTA 2025 is a clear indication that the airline is on the right track, moving from strength to strength, and continuing to evolve to meet the needs of modern travellers.

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Kuala Terengganu Hosts GRACE 2025, A Landmark Event Celebrating Tourism Industry Collaboration and Launching New Travel Packages for Malaysia’s East Coast

Kuala Terengganu—In an event that has set a new benchmark for collaboration in the tourism industry, Tourism Malaysia Eastern Region recently hosted GRACE 2025 (Gathering of Recognition, Appreciation, Collaboration and Excellence). The event took place in the heart of Kuala Terengganu at the luxurious Hotel Paya Bunga on 20 December 2025. Designed to celebrate the strong partnerships and continued growth in Malaysia’s tourism sector, GRACE 2025 brought together key stakeholders to focus on the future of tourism across the East Coast region.

This year’s GRACE event marks a monumental moment in Malaysia’s tourism strategy as it ushers in a new era of collaboration and innovation. Key players in the tourism sector gathered in the picturesque coastal city to acknowledge the collective efforts that have propelled the region to new heights.

A Growing Force in Malaysia’s Tourism Sector

The event was an opportunity to recognise the contributions of tourism partners who have been instrumental in promoting East Coast Malaysia as a premier destination for both local and international travellers. With the future of Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, the GRACE 2025 event took centre stage as a powerful demonstration of the strength of industry partnerships.

This year, the event was not just about celebrating past achievements but also about launching new travel initiatives to attract even more visitors. During the ceremony, 145 new travel packages were unveiled, covering a diverse array of tourism products from ecotourism and heritage tourism to adventure travel and gastronomy tours. These packages are designed to appeal to a wide range of travellers looking for authentic experiences in Malaysia’s East Coast.

Enhancing Regional Appeal with Strategic Partnerships

Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to expand the appeal of the East Coast have always been about fostering sustainable tourism practices. At GRACE 2025, the unveiling of these new travel packages was not just a strategic move to attract visitors but also a statement of resilience and adaptability in the face of global travel changes.

Throughout the event, it became clear that industry collaboration was key to the region’s success. Tourism Malaysia Eastern Region recognised hotel chains, travel agencies, and local governments for their significant contributions to destination marketing and efforts to diversify the tourism product offering. By celebrating these partnerships, the event highlighted the growing importance of teamwork in achieving Malaysia’s long-term tourism goals.

A Strong Focus on Cultural and Ecotourism Initiatives

One of the standout features of GRACE 2025 was the introduction of ecotourism packages, which underscore Malaysia’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The region’s natural beauty, from its tropical rainforests to its pristine beaches, has long been a key draw for nature lovers. With sustainable tourism as a core theme, the newly launched packages offer unique experiences such as guided jungle treks, wildlife spotting in protected national parks, and traditional cultural exchanges with local communities.

Moreover, these tourism initiatives are aligned with the national agenda for Visit Malaysia 2026, which aims to significantly boost tourist arrivals and promote a more sustainable and inclusive tourism model.

Media and Industry Acknowledgement

In addition to recognising the tourism partners, the event also celebrated the role of media in shaping perceptions of Malaysia as a travel destination. Journalists and content creators who have contributed to the promotion of the region were formally acknowledged. Their work, whether in digital media, broadcasting, or travel journalism, has been pivotal in showcasing the diverse attractions of East Coast Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Eastern Region’s efforts are not just about enticing tourists but about building a community of advocates—media included—who can further amplify the region’s message across international borders.

Tourism Malaysia’s Ambitious Vision for the Future

Tourism Malaysia has always positioned itself at the forefront of regional tourism development. GRACE 2025 was not just a celebration of past achievements but a strategic move to ensure the East Coast’s resilience and readiness for the post-pandemic tourism boom.

Looking ahead, the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign will leverage the momentum created by events like GRACE 2025 to bolster the country’s tourism infrastructure, diversify travel offerings, and enhance destination management practices. With a steady stream of new product offerings and a solid focus on cultural tourism, Malaysia is poised to emerge as a leader in sustainable travel within Southeast Asia.

A Welcoming Invitation for the Future

As GRACE 2025 drew to a close, the event’s significance was underscored by the shared sense of optimism within the tourism industry. With new partnerships and initiatives in place, East Coast Malaysia is well-positioned to offer visitors authentic cultural experiences, unspoiled natural beauty, and world-class hospitality.

The successful hosting of GRACE 2025 signifies the beginning of an exciting chapter for tourism in the region. Whether it’s exploring heritage sites, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing oneself in nature adventures, East Coast Malaysia is ready to welcome travellers from all walks of life. The region’s tourism future has never looked brighter, and the momentum from GRACE 2025 will undoubtedly carry forward to Visit Malaysia 2026 and beyond.

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