#Japan #Peru #Osaka #PROMPERÚ #World Tourism Day

Celebrating World Tourism Day in Osaka

In a remarkable event celebrating 'World Tourism Day' on September 27, the Peruvian Trade and Tourism Promotion Agency (PROMPERU) marked its presence at the Osaka Kansai Expo 2025 with two distinctive initiatives that highlighted the nation's vibrant culture and commitment to sustainable tourism.

Cultural Showcase at the Peru Pavilion

During the expo, visitors were treated to the mesmerizing traditional dance of 'Marinera' right in front of the Peru Pavilion. This spontaneous performance offered attendees a glimpse into one of Peru's rich cultural heritages, juxtaposing its scenic landscapes with the rhythm of its traditional music.

Additionally, from September 21 to 27, the 'Tourism Booth' located at the Festival Station engaged approximately 2,928 visitors in interactive quizzes and virtual reality experiences. Feedback from participants reflected the overall success of these activities, with many expressing how enjoyable and informative they found the experience. One participant remarked, "It was an amazing experience. I learned so much about Peru's tourist destinations, while also having fun!"

Networking with the Travel Industry

A highlight of the week was the cocktail party specifically held for travel industry professionals on September 27 at the Peru Pavilion. This gathering featured guided tours of the pavilion, delicious Peruvian cuisine, and traditional dance performances. Attendees from major travel agencies noted the growing interest in Peruvian cuisine, indicating potential future travel packages focusing on culinary tours.

Fernando Alvareda, the Trade Counselor from the Peruvian Trade Promotion Bureau's Tokyo office, opened the event with a toast, emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism and Peru's stunning offerings.

An Interview with Counselor Fernando Alvareda

We had the opportunity to interview Counselor Fernando Alvareda, who shared insights about this year's theme of 'Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.'

Q: What was the aim behind holding these events at the pavilion?
A: “Sustainable tourism involves protecting biodiversity, respecting our cultures, and directly supporting local communities. Travel can be a powerful tool for development. By choosing destinations that prioritize the environment and people, we contribute to a fairer and more balanced world. The Osaka Kansai Expo presents a unique opportunity for Peru to showcase its tourism diversity and sustainable practices.”

Q: Can you share specific examples of sustainable tourism in Peru?
A: “One symbolic example is Machu Picchu, which has been recognized as the first carbon-neutral tourist destination in Latin America. Additionally, five villages in Peru have received the title of 'Best Tourism Villages' by the UNWTO. The communities invested in these areas are recognized for their authenticity, commitment to sustainability, and cultural values.”

Q: Have the number of tourists from Japan been increasing? What trends are you noticing among Japanese tourists?
A: “Following the dip in international travel due to the pandemic, the number of tourists traveling to Peru decreased significantly. However, since 2022, we have seen a steady recovery in Japanese tourist visits. There's a noted shift from merely visiting Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines to focusing on gastronomy and luxury travel experiences.”

Q: Lastly, do you have a message for the Japanese audience?
A: “With diverse landscapes spanning from the Andes to the Amazon, and along the coastline and historic cities, Peru offers genuine and sustainable experiences to the world. I hope this expo becomes a catalyst for more Japanese visitors to explore what Peru has to offer.”

About PROMPERU

PROMPERÚ is Peru's official government agency dedicated to promoting international tourism, boosting exports, and attracting foreign investments. Their mission is to showcase the nation's brand to the world. For more information, visit PROMPERÚ.