The new “U.S.-Japan Tourism Year 2024” was announced at a special event hosted by the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA) in partnership with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) at The Glasshouse in New York, coinciding with the UN General Assembly week.

The event welcomed more than 170 media, travel advisors and other related industry dignitaries to celebrate American tourism to Japan (which reached an all-time high in 2023). The celebration featured cuisine from renowned chef and restaurateur Nobu Matsuhisa, virtual performances and interactive experiences, and a panel discussion with leaders in travel media.

Opening remarks were made by the Commissioner of JTA, Ichiro Takahashi, followed by a speech from the Japanese Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Tetsuo Saito.

Saito commented: “In order to expand mutual exchange, I am pleased to announce that 2024 will be designated as the U.

S.-Japan Tourism Year, which will include special events and initiatives in both countries. I would like to ask all the tourism professionals here to join us in these initiatives.

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