Uttar Pradesh Tourism took part in the JATA Tourism Expo Japan 2026 held from September 24 to 27 at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan. The four-day event included a one-day conference, a two-day business-to-business travel mart, and networking sessions. The Uttar Pradesh Tourism pavilion was inaugurated by H.E. Ms. Nagma Mohamed Mallick, Ambassador of India; Mr. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary and Director General of the Ministry of Tourism; Dr. R. K. Suman, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Tourism; and Ms. Udita Gaurav, First Secretary at the Embassy of India in Tokyo.
Tourism Offerings and Pavilion Highlights
At the expo, Uttar Pradesh Tourism
showcased the state’s Buddhist Circuit and spiritual heritage through a dedicated pavilion that included four co-exhibitors. The pavilion served as a focal point for B2B meetings and networking with international travel trade professionals. The displays emphasized pilgrimage circuits, cultural traditions, local cuisine, crafts, eco-tourism, and heritage tourism as part of the state’s diverse offerings. This aligns with the expo theme, “The Changing Nature of Travel,” by promoting sustainable and experiential tourism opportunities.
Engagement with Japanese Travel Industry
The Uttar Pradesh delegation actively engaged with Japanese travel trade professionals during the event to establish partnerships aimed at fostering cultural understanding, boosting tourism growth, and enhancing economic
cooperation. The state presented itself as a premier global destination by underlining its spiritual and cultural assets and building on international collaborations initiated at the expo.
Official Statements and Government Involvement
Hon’ble Minister of Tourism & Culture, Mr. Jaiveer Singh, highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s efforts to redefine global tourism through its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. He emphasized invitations to experience the state’s Buddhist Circuit and Spiritual Triangle. The participation of senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism and the Embassy of India demonstrated strong government involvement in promoting Uttar Pradesh’s tourism worldwide.
Key Destinations and Connectivity
Uttar Pradesh positions itself as the cradle of the Buddhist Circuit, inviting visitors
to explore transformative journeys reflecting the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. In addition to spiritual destinations, the state promotes cities like Ayodhya, Mathura-Vrindavan, Varanasi, Agra, Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Kannauj. Major festivals and events such as Dev Deepawali, Mahakumbh, Rangotsav, and Taj Utsav also form part of its tourism portfolio. International travelers can access Uttar Pradesh through Delhi International Airport and Lucknow International Airport, ensuring convenient connectivity for global visitors.
