The event, a centerpiece of the Japan-USA Tourism Campaign 2026, aimed to deepen bilateral ties during a year marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed the crowd via video, emphasizing the expansion of direct flights from San Francisco to Hokkaido and Okinawa. She also promoted the upcoming International Horticultural Expo 2027 in Yokohama as a major draw for international travelers.
Japan Showcases Cultural Heritage and Culinary Arts in New York
Amid the flurry of the United Nations General Assembly, Gotham Hall transformed into a showcase of Japanese tradition on September 22. The "Japan-U.S. Tourism and Culinary Night" drew 220 industry leaders and officials to highlight the nation's UNESCO-recognized heritage sites and its growing culinary exports to the American market.
The Japan Tourism Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries curated an evening focused on regional specialties. Guests sampled scallops from Aomori, Wagyu beef from Iwate, and Crown Melon from Shizuoka, alongside innovative dishes crafted from non-gluten rice flour. Kabuki actor Danjuro Ichikawa provided a cultural anchor for the evening, performing the traditional "Sanbaso" dance and hosting a discussion on the historical depth of Japan’s regional attractions, including the recently designated UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ancient Capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara.
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