Nearly 30% of prefectures across Japan saw crowds at major train stations surpassing pre-coronavirus levels in the first half of this year, with regional centers outpacing stations in the Tokyo area, according to private sector data.
Based on an analysis of major train stations in each of the 47 prefectures, 13 locations, or 28%, recorded more people than during the same period in 2019. Conversely, 21 locations, or 45%, witnessed a decline in crowds.
Miyazaki Station in the Kyushu region saw the most significant crowd increase at 11.2% compared to 2019. The surge is believed to be due to the opening of a commercial facility in front of the station in 2020 and enhanced public transport in the city.