Fresh winds of collaboration are blowing between Uttar Pradesh and Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, as they chart a bold course for tourism innovation. The Lucknow summit, led by Minister Jaiveer Singh, unpacked opportunities in wellness tourism, golf getaways, food diplomacy, Buddhist pilgrimages, literary pursuits, and experiential learning.
Singh illuminated the spiritual synergy between the nations, touting UP’s Buddhist landmarks—Sarnath, Kushinagar, Kapilvastu—as peerless treasures drawing global pilgrims. ‘Culture and tourism will anchor our economic alliance for generations,’ he declared.
Anticipation is high for the ‘UP Festival’ slated for Japan in April-May 2025, a cultural extravaganza to unveil UP’s treasures. Amrit Abhijat bridged Eastern philosophies, noting affinities between Jazen and Indian ethos, while promoting golf havens in Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi.
He pushed for next-gen tourism: curated culinary adventures, bookish sojourns, and wisdom quests, appealing to operators for Japan-tailored itineraries. Deputy Governor Junichi Ishidera hailed the MoU’s momentum, designating Yamanashi as UP’s Japan gateway, and previewed a massive August 2025 visit by 200 delegates.
This alliance promises economic upliftment, cultural enrichment, and a tourism renaissance, positioning UP as a must-visit for discerning Japanese travelers.