Uttar Pradesh and Japan explore ties beyond business; eye tourism, culture

Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Japan are set to strengthen their relationship, moving beyond economic ties to explore collaboration in tourism, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

Discussions on a plan for this cooperation took place during a meeting between a Japanese delegation from Yamanashi prefecture, led by its vice-governor Junichi Ishidera, and UP government officials. Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh headed the UP team.

Minister Singh emphasized that culture serves as a strong link between India and Japan, built on shared values and a significant Buddhist heritage. He stated, "While economic cooperation between the two sides was important, he said tourism and culture offered a more enduring foundation for long-term engagement."


Singh highlighted UP's importance in the Buddhist world, noting that the state encompasses key sites related to Lord Buddha's life. These include Sarnath, Kushinagar, and Kapilvastu, in addition to Bodh Gaya in neighboring Bihar.

The state is ready to welcome Japanese visitors and investors, with improvements in hospitality infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and a focus on areas like wellness tourism, which is seeing global interest.

Amrit Abhijat, additional chief secretary for tourism, culture, and religious affairs, pointed out that concepts like Ikigai, Wabi Sabi, and Zen, which are central to Japanese philosophy, align with India's spiritual traditions. He believes these can create new avenues for wellness and cultural tourism. Abhijat also mentioned the presence of Japanese Buddhist institutions in Sarnath and Kushinagar as proof of a long-standing spiritual connection.

Beyond religious tourism, Abhijat identified opportunities in sports tourism, citing golf courses in Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi. He also noted potential for culinary experiences, literary exchanges, medical tourism, and educational travel.

Minister Singh suggested the possibility of organizing a UP festival in Japan in April or May. This event could showcase the state's culture, heritage, and tourism potential to the Japanese public.

Vice-governor Ishidera stated that since signing a Memorandum of Understanding in December 2024, UP and Yamanashi prefecture have held several productive meetings to build a lasting partnership. He expressed Yamanashi's aim to act as a gateway for UP in Japan, promoting its tourist destinations and broader engagement.

Ishidera also confirmed that a delegation of over 200 Japanese individuals is scheduled to visit UP in August. Their itinerary includes visits to Varanasi, Sarnath, and other significant cultural sites, with a focus on spiritual, cultural, and policy-related discussions.