Given the fact that Japan is hosting this year's Rugby World Cup, it would come as no surprise that its popularity as a destination has increased, but it's the size of the increase that is a prime example of just how much Kiwi's love rugby.
Figures obtained from online travel agent Webjet.co.nz have revealed the number of New Zealanders heading to Japan has jumped 75 percent compared to this time last year.
Of those travelling to Japan, 31 percent of bookings were timed to fit around Rugby World Cup events.
Japan is currently one of the top 10 most-searched destinations in New Zealand, and Tokyo tops the tables as the most popular destination for Kiwi's searching for Japanese travel destinations, followed by Sapporo, Fukuoka, Oita and Kobe.
It's a different story across the Tasman where bookings from Australia to Japan have actually dropped by two percent since the same time last year.
If the hype around the tournament is tempting you to make a booking, then there are still some deals to be had.
An analysis of Webjet data has revealed the cheapest day to book is Monday, followed by Thursdays.
Travellers should consider travelling to either an alternative city or airport, such as Sapporo rather than Tokyo, in order to secure cheaper airfares.
Air New Zealand flies from Auckland direct to Tokyo as well as a seasonal service to Osaka Kansai.
Newshub.
