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Nepal has reinforced its presence in Japan’s tourism market with the successful completion of the Nepal Tourism Promotion and B2B Exchange Programme 2026, held in two phases in Tokyo and Osaka on 2 and 5 April.
The first programme was organised at the Rihga Royal Hotel Tokyo on 02 April 2026, followed by the second leg on 05 April 2026 at the Rihga Royal Hotel Osaka, bringing together over 60 participants from Osaka and Nepal.
Jointly organised by the PATA Nepal Chapter and the Nepal Tourism Board, in collaboration with Nepal Airlines Corporation, the PATA Japan Chapter, and the PATA Chinese Taipei Chapter, the programme marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral tourism cooperation, coinciding with 70 years of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan.
The Tokyo event drew approximately 90 participants, including a 23-member Nepali delegation representing 12 leading tourism and hospitality companies. Across both programmes, Nepal showcased a diverse portfolio of tourism offerings, spanning adventure, nature, culture, spirituality, and luxury experiences.
A key highlight was the strong participation from Japan’s travel trade industry. Leading organisations such as JTB and the Japan Association of Travel Agents, alongside prominent tour operators and travel professionals, took part reflecting growing interest in Nepal among Japanese travellers.
Formal sessions opened with the national anthems of Nepal and Japan, underscoring long-standing friendship and mutual respect. Remarks were delivered by representatives of the PATA Japan Chapter, PATA Chinese Taipei Chapter, PATA Nepal Chapter, and the Embassy of Nepal in Tokyo.
A Destination Nepal presentation by the Nepal Tourism Board highlighted the country’s positioning as an authentic and diverse travel destination. Additional presentations on the upcoming 6th Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2026) and Nepal Airlines Corporation emphasised improved connectivity and expanding tourism and trade opportunities.
The programmes were further enriched by a cultural showcase and presentations on Nepal’s diverse tourism products, offering participants deeper insights into the destination.
The B2B exchange sessions in both Tokyo and Osaka provided a dynamic platform for direct engagement between Nepalese sellers and buyers from Japan and Chinese Taipei. These sessions facilitated meaningful business discussions, strengthened partnerships, and opened avenues for future collaboration aimed at increasing tourist arrivals to Nepal.
Speaking on the occasion, PATA Nepal General Secretary and NTB Executive Committee Member, Narendra Bhatta, stated:
“Japan remains a highly valued source market for Nepal, and initiatives like these play a crucial role in building trust, strengthening partnerships, and creating meaningful business linkages. We are encouraged by the strong interest and engagement from the Japanese travel trade and look forward to further expanding our collaboration in the years ahead.”
PATA Japan Chapter Chairman, Tony Ishida, expressed his pleasure in hosting the Nepal delegation and emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between the chapters, noting that such engagements further strengthen tourism ties and mutual cooperation.
Similarly, PATA Chinese Taipei Chapter Chairperson, Ben Liao, welcomed the tri-chapter initiative, describing it as a promising beginning for tourism promotion and B2B exchange. He also extended an invitation to delegates from Nepal and Japan to visit Taiwan in the near future.
Both programmes concluded with networking sessions, fostering stronger professional relationships and enhancing people-to-people connections.
The successful completion of the Tokyo and Osaka programmes highlights Nepal’s growing appeal in the Japanese market and underscores the strengthening partnership between the tourism industries of Nepal and Japan.
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