TOKYO, Aug. 29, 2025 /Kyodo JBN/ --
In August 2025, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB) held the " Tokyo City Promotion 2025 " in Australia, a tourism promotion event targeting local travel industry professionals in Sydney and Melbourne.
- Sydney
Date: Tuesday, 5 August 2025
Venue: Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
- Melbourne
Date: Thursday, 7 August 2025
Venue: Rydges Melbourne CBD
This initiative aimed to immerse attendees in the rich and diverse appeal of Tokyo through a range of interactive and business-focused programs. A total of 20 organizations from Tokyo -- engaged in tourism-related businesses -- participated as exhibitors. The events featured tourism seminars, business meetings, networking receptions, and hands-on workshops, welcoming approximately 100 travel industry professionals across both cities.
1. Seminars, Business Meetings, and Networking Receptions
Both events included tourism seminars by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and participating organizations, presenting not only information on the latest spots in Tokyo, but also a variety of attractions including tradition, innovation, food, nature, and culture. This was followed by business negotiations, where Tokyo-based tourism operators and local buyers engaged in productive discussions on travel product development and promotional opportunities.
The events concluded with networking receptions, providing an informal setting for further exchange and relationship-building. The momentum continues for deeper collaboration with the local market.
2. Highlights from the Sydney Event
A major highlight in Sydney was the s pecial program " Tokyo Gastronomy Talk " presented by renowned food expert Adam Liaw, widely known from " The Cook Up with Adam Liaw and Adam & Poh ’ s Great Australian Bites. " Liaw shared insights into the depth and innovation of Tokyo ’ s culinary scenes and served original dishes inspired by Tokyo ’ s street food culture, including gyudon (beef bowl) and " curry rice. "
In addition, attendees engaged in traditional Japanese cultural experiences, including:
- A calligraphy workshop led by Ren Yano, a master calligrapher
- An ikebana (flower arrangement) experience conducted by Hiroko Prado, a celebrated floral artist
These experiences allowed participants to discover Tokyo ’ s evolving culture through all five senses.
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3. Highlights of the Melbourne Event
In Melbourne, the event opened with a dynamic performance by Wadaiko Rindo, a traditional Japanese taiko drum group. Their powerful performance conveyed Tokyo ’ s energetic and creative spirit, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
As in Sydney, the program featured:
- A calligraphy workshop led by Ren Yano, a master calligrapher
- An ikebana workshop led by Toko Tazawa, an esteemed flower artist
These hands-on activities offered a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with Tokyo ’ s traditional culture in a personal and memorable way.
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4. Looking Ahead
Through this initiative, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and TCVB aim to further strengthen brand awareness of Tokyo in the Australian market and foster long-term partnerships with local industry players.
By continuing to promote Tokyo as a multifaceted travel destination -- blending culture, cuisine, and immersive urban experiences -- Tokyo remains committed to inspiring global travelers and expanding its presence in key international markets.
Source: Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau
