'Doesn't really resonate': Surprising destination trumps Gold Coast as Schoolies hotspot
For years, Schoolies has been synonymous with one place: the Gold Coast.
Year 12 leavers have consistently flocked to the Queensland paradise for a week of partying after finishing their final exams.
But this year, a different destination has come out on top, one perhaps more parents are willing to get behind.
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According to Flight Centre Travel Group data, Tokyo is the hot new place to farewell high school.
The travel company reports that bookings for under-19s to Tokyo for Schoolies dates have increased by 28 per cent compared to last year.
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Flight Centre global managing director Andrew Stark says that this change reflects Gen Z's shifting ideas around travel.
"Young Australians are more worldly than ever before, and this translates into the kind of travel experiences they're after," he explained.
Japan has great beaches. Getty
Though Schoolies tends to be synonymous with drinking alcohol (and lots of it), increasingly, young travellers are choosing to holiday without booze.
Research from the Group also found that 82 per cent of Gen Z would consider taking a holiday without alcohol.
"The Gold Coast will always be iconic but the idea of spending a week in one spot just to drink, and party doesn't really resonate with teenagers anymore," says Andrew.
"They want cultural depth, good food, and experiences they can't get at home."
Young travellers are seeking a different experience. Getty
Another factor impacting the choice to head to Tokyo over Queensland is cost.
Schoolies on the Gold Coast can cost over a thousand dollars for accommodation alone – then there's food, alcohol, and event costs to consider too.
Topdeck APAC general manager Anna Fawcett says school leavers are starting to think more about value for money - they're "thinking about where in the world that money could take them instead."
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Japan offers great value for money. Getty
It's not just Schoolies who are heading to Japan in droves - nearly 1 million Australians visited Japan last year, marking a 50 per cent increase in visitor numbers.
For travellers looking to escape the crowds but still take in all that Japan has to offer, consider venturing outside of Tokyo.
Ninety per cent of Aussie tourists visit the capital, but there are many other spots to add to the list – like the beaches of the south, the ski fields of the north, and the bustling cities of Osaka and Kyoto.
The southern region of Okinawa is emerging as an alternative destination for those wanting to get out of the city.
The region is made up of 150 islands and is known for its warm weather, beaches, and tropical reefs.
Okinawa placed second on Expedia's 2026 Destinations of the Year list.
