In the global travel rebound trend following the pandemic, travelers are no longer satisfied with superficial sightseeing and photo ops. Instead, they seek travel modes that offer a "reboot" for life, deeper experiences, and sustainable development. According to data from the global luxury travel network Virtuoso, global travel demand in the first half of 2023 significantly surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2019, fueling trends like "slow travel," "sustainable tourism," and "curated luxury experiences."
Building on a solid foundation in the European and American markets and successfully promoting Taiwan globally, “ My Taiwan Tour” is marking its 10th anniversary in 2024 with record-breaking performance. It is also launching a new brand, “Crafted Living,” as it expands beyond Taiwan, choosing Japan—well-loved by Taiwanese travelers—as its first destination. This initiative sets a new paradigm for “short-term stays” (Staycation). In this travel model, guests move away from rushed visits to landmarks and instead immerse themselves deeply in a single region. They stay in century-old inns, embrace the passage of time in natural surroundings, savor seasonal local cuisine, experience exquisite craftsmanship, and delve into cultural roots—from fruit orchards and farm-to-table dining to ancient tea-producing regions and UNESCO World Heritage islands—gaining inspiration, reflection, and awareness of sustainability.
“Crafted Living” emphasizes the spirit of craftsmanship. Whether it’s the “travel crafters” who meticulously plan the journeys or the “leisure crafters” who appreciate refined experiences and life’s pleasures, these individuals are central to promoting this deep travel philosophy. Participants in the first curated Kyushu experience, including prominent media figures and lifestyle influencers, not only appreciated the local beauty but also discovered the unique charm of “short-term stays.” This approach, characterized by a leisurely pace, refined tastes, and local connections, establishes a new benchmark for post-pandemic travel.
With active support from Japanese tourism organizations, Taiwan and Kyushu are forging deeper cultural and economic ties through “Crafted Living.” As a representative of the Kyushu Tourism Organization remarked, Taiwan and Japan share a strong bond and rapidly expanding opportunities for exchange. The concept of “high-quality, deep travel” will be a crucial objective for future tourism development. The rise of “short-term stays” not only signifies an elegant transformation of travel models post-pandemic but also redefines travel as a new lifestyle experience—blending cultural depth, aesthetic appeal, and sustainable values.
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