Tamil Nadu showcased its cultural heritage, landscapes, festivals, and tourism experiences during Tourism Expo Japan 2026 held in Tokyo from September 24 to 27, 2026. The state engaged with Japanese travel trade and visitors to highlight its cuisine, Buddhist heritage connections, and emerging tourist offerings.
Tamil Nadu Tourism Booth Inauguration and Dignitaries
The Tamil Nadu Tourism booth was inaugurated by H.E. Nagma Mohamed Mallick, Ambassador of India to Japan; Dr. S. Swarna, Principal Secretary of Tamil Nadu’s Tourism, Culture and Special Initiatives Department; Mr. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary and Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; and Ms. Suchi Tyagi, Secretary of Tourism, Government
of Rajasthan. This event marked the official presentation of Tamil Nadu’s tourism portfolio at the expo.
Buddhist Heritage and Ecological Diversity Emphasized
Dr. S. Swarna stressed the shared Buddhist heritage linking Japan and Tamil Nadu, noting the state’s ancient Sangam literary tradition. She outlined five ecological landscapes from Sangam literature: kurinji (hilly/mountainous), mullai (forest), marutham (agricultural), neithal (coastal), and palai (arid), each with distinct biodiversity and cultural traditions. These varied landscapes create opportunities for trekking, coastal tourism, and cultural experiences.
Discover Tamil Nadu Familiarisation Trip Announcement
Tamil Nadu Tourism opened registrations for the curated familiarisation trip, Discover Tamil Nadu – International Edition 2026-27, scheduled from January 12 to 20, 2027, coinciding with
the Pongal festival season. The program will select up to 10 international participants, including social media influencers, travel journalists, travel media representatives, travel agents, tour operators, and destination management companies, to promote Tamil Nadu’s tourism assets.
Strengthening Japan-Tamil Nadu Tourism Connections
At the expo, Tamil Nadu Tourism conducted discussions with Japanese travel trade representatives to increase visitor arrivals from Japan and develop bespoke travel experiences. The state also showcased investment opportunities in heritage hospitality, eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and experiential travel sectors as part of its strategy to strengthen bilateral tourism and cultural ties.
Historical and Cultural Tourism Assets
Tamil Nadu’s historical Buddhist connections include cities such as Kancheepuram, Nagapattinam, and
Poompuhar, known for maritime exchanges across Asia. The state recognizes Bodhidharma, linked with Kancheepuram, as a key figure in East Asian Buddhist traditions. Tamil Nadu hosts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites and festivals like the Indian Dance Festival, Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival, and Tamil Nadu International Kite Festival. Pongal, a major cultural festival, features Jallikattu as a significant element.
Tourism Infrastructure and Natural Attractions
The state has nearly 1,076 kilometres of coastline offering water sports and coastal tourism. Destinations under development include Kolli Hills, Jawadhu Hills, and Yercaud. Tamil Nadu’s natural assets include hill stations, beaches, wildlife, and biosphere reserves such as the Nilgiris,
Agasthiyarmalai, and Gulf of Mannar. Visitors can access national parks, mangrove areas, trekking routes, water sports, and safari experiences throughout the region.
Cultural tourism features traditional dance, folk arts, cuisine, and handicrafts including brass and bronze products, sarees, embroidery, jewellery, and pottery. Tamil Nadu also counts 74 GI-tagged products that represent its regional crafts and specialties.
