Why Japanese Travelers Are Falling in Love with Morocco in 2026
Planning Morocco tours from Japan is one of the fastest-rising destinations for international travellers, and Japanese tourists are discovering it in record numbers. With its labyrinthine medinas, golden Sahara dunes, snow-capped Atlas Mountains, and warm Berber hospitality, Morocco offers a sensory experience unlike anywhere else in the world, and it’s closer (and more accessible) from Japan than most people think.
In 2025, Morocco welcomed nearly 20 million international visitors, cementing its place as Africa’s leading tourism destination. For Japanese travelers seeking an exotic, culturally rich alternative to Europe, Morocco delivers everything: ancient history, dramatic landscapes, world-class cuisine, and unbeatable value for money.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your Morocco tour from Japan from flights and visa requirements to the best itineraries, top destinations, and insider tips tailored for Japanese visitors.
6 Top Destinations in Morocco for Japanese Travellers
Photo credit – Jo Malcolm
Marrakech
The “Red City” is Morocco’s tourism heart. The Medina of Marrakech is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a maze of pink-walled streets filled with spice stalls, artisan workshops, and rooftop cafés. For Japanese visitors, the visual richness and craftsmanship of Moroccan artisanship (zellige tilework, carved plaster, hand-woven textiles) resonates deeply.
Fes
Morocco’s intellectual and spiritual capital. Home to Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859 AD it is the world’s oldest continuously operating university. The medina’s complexity rivals Tokyo’s most intricate neighbourhoods, making it endlessly fascinating to explore.
Chefchaouen
The Blue Pearl of Morocco. Perched in the Rif Mountains, this photogenic town is tailor-made for Instagram and street photography. Japanese travelers consistently rank it as their single favorite Morocco destination.
Sahara Desert (Merzouga)
The Erg Chebbi dune field near Merzouga reaches heights of 150 meters. A camel trek at sunset followed by a night in a Berber desert camp is the defining Morocco experience.
Atlas Mountains
Morocco is home to the Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 4,167m — a serious trekking challenge for outdoor enthusiasts. Day hikes into Berber villages in the Ourika Valley are accessible from Marrakech.
Essaouira
A laid-back Atlantic coastal city famous for fresh seafood, blue-and-white architecture, and strong winds that make it a world-class kitesurfing destination. A wonderful contrast to the intensity of Marrakech.
Practical Tips for Japanese Travelers in Morocco
Language
Morocco’s official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). French is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. English is available at hotels and popular tourist sites. Japanese-speaking guides can be arranged through specialist tour operators — worth requesting when booking.
Currency
The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is a closed currency, meaning it can only be obtained inside Morocco. Bring Japanese yen or US dollars/euros and exchange on arrival at the airport or at banks. ATMs are widely available in all major cities with a maximum withdrawal of 2,000 MAD (~¥30,000) per transaction. Morocco is primarily a cash society — carry small bills for markets, taxis, and tips.
Exchange rate (approximate, May 2026): ¥1,000 ≈ 68–72 MAD
If you would like to know more about this or any other story published on Mytravelroom, please contact me at janeco@mytravelroom.co.nz
