Insights from a Survey on Ticket Purchasing Trends across Generations in Japan

Understanding Ticket Purchasing Trends Across Generations in Japan

In a recent survey conducted from September 2 to September 8, 2025, Uniaim Co., Ltd. gathered insights from 1,000 respondents aged between 20 and 60 to understand ticket purchasing habits across different age groups. The results shed light on the preferences and challenges faced by consumers when buying tickets for various events.

Survey Overview

The survey included equal representation across generations, with 200 respondents from each decade. The different purchasing methods, ticket preferences, and ease of use were discussed, revealing significant behavioral trends shaped by digital transformation.

Key Findings

1. Ticket Types Purchased
The most commonly purchased tickets were for movies, accounting for 75.1% of responses, followed by tickets for theme parks at 66.0%, and concerts at 65.7%. This shows that entertainment events continue to be a priority for many consumers.

2. Preferred Purchasing Methods
When it comes to purchasing tickets, the most popular method was buying in person at ticket offices or venues, cited by 51.4% of respondents. Other significant methods included kiosks at convenience stores (45.8%) and smartphone apps (44.2%). Younger cohorts (ages 20-30) favored online purchases, while individuals in their 50s and above preferred using traditional methods, preferring the security of face-to-face transactions.

3. Receiving Tickets
The preferred method for receiving tickets was QR codes, favored by 44.4% of respondents. Other methods such as receiving tickets at convenience stores and in-person pickup followed. Younger generations appreciated the convenience of QR codes, while older demographics expressed a preference for traditional methods, highlighting the generational divide.

4. Challenges with Online Tickets
A significant portion of respondents (18.6%) found smartphone operations to be difficult, with others encountering issues related to poor network connectivity (18.1%) or cumbersome app installations (16.4%). These challenges indicated that while younger individuals embrace convenience, they also experience frustrations tied to technology reliability.

5. Focal Points While Booking Online
The features most valued during online ticket bookings included ease of smartphone operations (18.6%) and online-only discounts (23.9%). It became apparent that the simplicity of the process plays a crucial role across all generations, especially among aging populations who value accessibility.

6. Advantages of Physical Tickets
A significant 52.3% of respondents felt that physical tickets were valuable as mementos, underscoring a deep-seated emotional attachment. Many also preferred physical tickets for their reliability and ease of handling, especially among older generations.

7. Customer Support Preferences
When asked about support during the purchasing process, 34.8% requested guidance on how to handle lost tickets or entry issues, which indicates a need for reassurance among consumers, particularly from older age brackets.

8. Information Sources for Purchases
The survey noted that advertisements and newsletters from ticketing agencies substantially influenced purchasing decisions (44.9%). Younger generations actively sought information through social media and search engines, while older generations valued traditional advertising methods.

9. Payment Preferences
As for payment methods, credit cards emerged as the dominant choice (67.1%), though convenience store payments and cash transactions were also notable, especially among older respondents who preferred straightforward, traditional payment methods.

Conclusion

The survey results indicate a clear trend toward digital ticketing solutions, particularly among younger populations who prioritize the efficiency of online systems. Conversely, physical tickets maintain significant appeal due to their tangible nature and emotional significance.

As facilities and event organizers evolve their ticketing strategies, they must not only adapt to the preferences for digital solutions but also address the unique concerns of each generation, ensuring efficient support is in place for those less familiar with technology.

For those considering digital transformation in ticket sales, Uniaim offers the CLOUD PASS ticketing system, which supports smooth transitions and enhancements for customer satisfaction. Feel free to reach out for free consultations and quotations.