Experiencing the enchanting beauty of spring in Japan is a travel bucket list item for many Filipinos. Drawing inspiration from the captivating charm of the season, the Japan National Tourism Organization Manila Office (JNTO) transformed the Visit Japan Pavilion at the PTAA Travel Tour Expo 2024 into an immersive space that was filled with rich cultural experiences.
Held from February 2 to 4, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, Manila, the event gave JNTO and its various co-exhibitors the opportunity to showcase the many wonders of the country and share their Japan travel tips with Filipinos.
Read on to discover the highlights of the Visit Japan Pavilion at the PTAA Travel Tour Expo 2024.
1. The “haru”-inspired booth display
Spring came to life at the Visit Japan Pavilion
This year's Visit Japan booth was thoughtfully modeled after rojiura (traditional-style alleyways in Japan). The rojiura was also adorned with bright pink cherry blossoms as a nod to one of the most popular symbols of springtime in Japan. Upon stepping into the space, the visitors were treated to various fun, interactive activities and discovered more about Japan through the information booths on display.
2. Traditional cultural experiences, art workshops, and freebies abound
Yukata try-on and photo op area
The booth also provided different and authentic activities to show off the essence of Japan’s vibrant culture. These include wearing a traditional Japanese yukata (traditional Japanese summer garment), experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony with Teavolution PH, and participating in an origami workshop with Origami Philippines. To liven up the event, Taiko drummers showcased traditional Japanese drumming and Japanese comedian Yuki Horikoshi performed a stand-up comedy bit.
Memory Game and Stamp Rally
Fun games such as the Memory Game vending machine challenged visitors to match the logos in under one minute to win prizes, including a bundle of Meiji chocolates. Another popular Japanese dessert, mochi, and a Japanese sticker set were up for grabs for visitors who completed the Visit Japan Pavilion Stamp Rally.
Japanese keychains, stickers, mochi, and more were given away to booth visitors
As for visitors who enjoyed their stay at the Visit Japan Pavilion and answered a survey, they took home a personalized bookmark featuring Japanese calligraphy.
3. Visitors learned more about Japan through co-exhibitors
Co-exhibitors from various Japanese organizations participated in the event
Through the stamp rally activity, visitors simply had to drop by each booth in the Visit Japan Pavilion, where co-exhibitors — comprising representatives from Japanese organizations — were happy to share their knowledge of tourist spots, travel information, and local knowledge of the various prefectures of Japan.
We’d like to thank our co-exhibitors Meiji, TOBU RAILWAY GROUP, The Japan Council of Local Authorities for International Relations, Singapore, MITSUI OUTLET PARK / Mitsui Shopping Park, Railway Trip in KANSAI, East Nara Nabari Tourism Marketing, Fukui Prefecture, JAPAN, GIFU (Central Japan), Premium Outlets® Japan, PORTOM INTERNATIONAL HOKKAIDO, City of SAPPORO, and JR HOKKAIDO & HAKODATE CITY for joining JNTO during the event.
4. Entertaining performances by MNL48 and Sharlla and the Band
MNL48 on the PTAA Travel Tour Expo 2024 main stage
Local idol group MNL48 captured everyone’s attention on the PTAA Travel Tour Expo 2024 main stage with their performances of popular Japanese songs.
The group also dropped by the Visit Japan Pavilion stage for a mini serenade as well as a surprise collaboration with Sharlla and the Band.
Sharlla and the Band
Meanwhile, Sharlla and the Band treated guests to a live band performance of trending Japanese city pop songs to close Days 2 and 3 on a light, happy note.
On an even happier note, the Visit Japan Pavilion was also named the Best Decorated Booth at the event and recognized as having the most organized system by the PTAA.
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