If Japan has been sitting quietly on their travel wish list, this might be the nudge they have been waiting for. From now until 1 December 2026, Malaysian cardholders holding a CIMB Visa Credit Card/-i or Debit Card can enjoy up to 8% OFF hotels and traditional ryokans in Japan when booking through Rakuten Travel.
Japan remains one of the most loved destinations among Malaysians. Whether it is cherry blossom season in spring, vibrant autumn foliage, a winter escape to snowy Hokkaido, or a summer food adventure in Osaka, the country offers something memorable all year round. The challenge, however, is always the same: accommodation costs can add up quickly, especially in major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
This is where this promotion becomes practical and worth considering.
What Is the Deal About?
Rakuten Travel is offering:
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8% OFF when booking via the Rakuten app (capped at JPY10,000)
Promo Code: VISAGLOBAL8 -
5% OFF when booking via their campaign website (capped at JPY8,000)
Link: https://travel.rakuten.com/contents/mys/en-us/campaign/visaglobal/202512/?scid=we_trv_partner_visaglobal
Promo Code: VISAGLOBAL5
The booking period runs from 26 January 2026 to 1 December 2026, while the stay period extends all the way until 31 December 2027. That extended stay period is particularly attractive. It gives travellers plenty of flexibility to plan ahead, secure better flight fares, and lock in accommodation at discounted rates early.
For CIMB Visa cardholders in Malaysia, this promotion is exclusively available when payment is made using their CIMB Visa Credit Card/-i or Debit Card.
Why This Promotion Is Worth Considering
At first glance, 5% to 8% may not seem like a huge discount. However, when converted into real savings, it can make a noticeable difference.
For example, if they book a hotel worth approximately JPY150,000 for a week’s stay in Tokyo, an 8% discount means savings of up to JPY10,000 (which is the cap). That amount could easily cover a special omakase dinner, a Shinkansen ticket between cities, or a day trip to Mount Fuji.
For families travelling during peak seasons such as cherry blossom or year-end holidays, accommodation prices can surge. Applying a capped discount at the right time helps soften the impact of seasonal price increases.
Even the 5% website discount, capped at JPY8,000, can be meaningful for shorter stays or mid-range hotel bookings.
App Booking vs Website Booking – Which Should They Choose?
If they are comfortable using mobile apps, booking through the Rakuten app makes sense because the discount is higher at 8%. The only requirement is to key in the promo code VISAGLOBAL8 during checkout.
If they prefer booking on a desktop or browsing in more detail through a larger screen, the 5% discount via the website link remains a good option. They simply need to use the link provided and apply promo code VISAGLOBAL5 before completing payment.
It is important to note that the promo code must be entered during checkout. Without keying in the code, the discount will not be automatically applied.
Ideal for Ryokan Experiences
One of the best reasons to use this promotion is for ryokan stays.
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that often include tatami rooms, futon bedding, onsen baths and multi-course kaiseki dinners. These stays are usually more expensive than standard business hotels, but they deliver a culturally immersive experience.
Applying an 8% discount on a ryokan booking helps reduce the premium cost while still allowing them to enjoy the full Japanese hospitality experience. For honeymooners or couples celebrating anniversaries, this can be a practical way to elevate the trip without overspending.
Flexible Travel Planning Until End of 2027
The stay period running until 31 December 2027 is one of the strongest aspects of this campaign.
Many travel promotions restrict stays to a few months. Here, travellers can book now and plan for trips over the next one to two years. This flexibility is particularly useful for:
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Those planning graduation trips
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Families coordinating school holidays
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Couples planning wedding trips
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Friends arranging long-overdue reunions
By booking early, they can secure rooms in popular areas before prices climb.
How to Enjoy the Promotion
There are a few simple steps to ensure eligibility:
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Register as a Rakuten member. Registration is required before booking.
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Make the booking during the campaign period (26 January 2026 – 1 December 2026).
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Enter the correct promo code during checkout.
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Complete payment using a CIMB Visa Credit Card/-i or Debit Card issued in Malaysia.
Without fulfilling these requirements, the discount will not apply.
The registration link is mentioned in the original campaign material as “Register HERE”. Travellers should ensure they are properly logged into their Rakuten account before finalising their booking.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
As with most travel promotions, terms and conditions apply.
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The offer cannot be combined with other promotions, welcome coupons, vouchers, privileges or membership discounts.
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The discount is not refundable or transferable.
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All bookings and disputes fall under Rakuten Travel’s Terms and Conditions.
Travellers should also double-check cancellation policies of individual hotels before confirming bookings, especially for trips planned far in advance.
Why They Should Take Advantage of This Now
Japan continues to attract global tourists, and accommodation demand has been steadily increasing. Popular cities frequently experience high occupancy rates during peak seasons.
Waiting too long may result in limited availability or higher base rates. Locking in accommodation early with a discount helps protect their travel budget.
Moreover, using a CIMB Visa card to unlock savings is straightforward. Instead of letting card benefits go unused, this promotion allows them to convert their existing banking relationship into tangible travel value.
For those already planning a Japan trip, this is essentially a bonus saving. For those still undecided, the discount might just be the final push needed to start browsing flights and drafting itineraries.
From Tokyo’s neon skyline to Kyoto’s serene temples, from Hokkaido’s snow-covered landscapes to Okinawa’s beaches, Japan offers layers of experiences. Saving on accommodation means allocating more budget to food, attractions and shopping.
Final Thoughts
Travel is often about timing and smart decisions. This Rakuten Travel promotion for CIMB Visa cardholders offers both flexibility and savings.
It does not require complicated redemptions, loyalty point conversions or minimum spending beyond the hotel booking itself. The process is simple: register, book within the period, apply the code and pay with the eligible card.
For Malaysians who love Japan, or those who have been postponing their first visit, this is a practical opportunity to stretch their Ringgit further.
Planning early, booking strategically and applying the correct promo code can make their dream Japan holiday slightly more affordable.
Promotional/Event Details:
Date: 26 January 2026 – 1 December 2026 (Booking Period)
Stay Period: 26 January 2026 – 31 December 2027
Time: Online booking, 24 hours daily
Venue: Rakuten Travel App or Website
Website Link: https://travel.rakuten.com/contents/mys/en-us/campaign/visaglobal/202512/?scid=we_trv_partner_visaglobal
Payment must be made using a CIMB Visa Credit Card/-i or Debit Card issued in Malaysia. Promo codes must be entered during checkout.
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