Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) staged its first-ever Japan Travel Fair, highlighting 18 travel operators across two days at Sydney’s Luna Park. JNTO’s annual Japan Roadshow events also visited trade in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane this week.
More than 7,500 Sydneysiders attended the Japan Travel Fair on 4–5 February, JNTO Sydney’s first consumer-focused travel expo to help travellers plan their next Japan trip amid popular demand.
JNTO Sydney Executive Director Yoko Tanaka said: “We aim to continue to encourage travel to Japan and highlight the attractions and experiences of each region.”
“With the Japan border fully open, people’s passion for visiting Japan has been well and truly revived.
“I am thrilled that we were able to organise the Japan Travel Fair and invite so many Japan-loving travellers to learn more about what’s on offer.”
The Travel Fair shared the latest travel ideas and itineraries plus several cultural workshops and performances, including calligraphy, traditional dance performances from Okinawa and Kuroishi and samurai sword and karate demonstrations.
Australian celebrity chef Adam Liaw also made a special appearance, inviting guests to participate in a Japan-themed Q&A.
Trade shows
JNTO’s annual Japan Roadshow events also saw more than 210 travel advisors and buyers meet with Japan specialists in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
As Australia’s largest Japan travel and tourism B2B event, the roadshow showcased operators including Japanese local government representatives, accommodation providers, tour operators and DMCs and air and rail partners.
In attendance were Club Med and Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU, FUJI KYUKO Co. Ltd, Kuroishi City (Aomori), Okinawa Tourism and Tourism Oita/Kyushu, Collette, InsideJapan Tours, Inspiring Vacations, Intrepid Travel, Journey to the East, Klook, MW Tours, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Skimax Holidays, Wendy Wu Tours, ANA – All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines.
“Our goal with this year’s roadshow events was to provide the industry with information to help attract more Australians to Japan as well as highlight exciting and unique experiences that will encourage travellers to stay longer and create holidays full of activities that are exclusive to Japan,” Ms Tanaka said.
“During the pandemic hiatus, many of our valued Japanese suppliers developed new products, opening new hotels and refurbishing facilities, so the roadshow presented a great opportunity for the industry to keep up to date with the latest offerings in Japan and meet new partners.”
Read about JNTO’s first agent famils back in Japan here.
For more info, head to japan.travel
