Tokyo, the vibrant and eclectic capital of Japan, recently took center stage in Paris as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government organized an immersive promotional campaign on November 16th and 17th. This initiative aimed to provide Parisians and the global audience a glimpse of the exciting experiences awaiting them in Tokyo, covering everything from traditional arts and cultural exhibitions to culinary delights and travel insights.
Tokyo’s Dynamic Appeal Unveiled in Paris
The two-day event unfolded with a series of engaging activities in the Invalides area of Paris, where participants, including local citizens, media representatives, travel agents, and tourism professionals, were treated to a diverse range of experiences. The heart of the campaign was the introduction of the brand new “Do Tokyo!” promotion initiative, showcasing Tokyo’s evolution as a tourist destination.
Traditional Arts and Cultural Insights
Tokyo’s rich cultural heritage took the spotlight as the Japanese tourism industry set up stands to promote travel packages, particularly targeting French travel agents. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in turn, shared recent efforts and initiatives aimed at enhancing the visitor experience in the city.
Highlighting the city’s ancient traditions, a program of traditional culture and arts activities was presented, offering a glimpse into some of the most beautiful and captivating events happening in Tokyo. Among these cultural treasures, calligraphy, an ancient skill deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, was introduced to Parisian audiences. Participants had the unique opportunity to try their hand at writing katakana or kanji characters under the guidance of a master calligrapher.
Culinary Delights: Vegan and Sushi Exploration
No exploration of Tokyo is complete without delving into its culinary wonders. Tokyo’s efforts
to attract more visitors included the publication of a guide to the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the city. This comprehensive guide categorizes each location, provides recommendations per area, and offers advice on how to reach these culinary havens.
For those with a penchant for traditional Japanese meals, a sushi presentation took center stage at the Paris event. Matsunozushi Yoshi Tezuka led a conference introducing participants to the nuances of sushi culture, allowing them to craft their own sushi under expert guidance.
Interactive Arts and Culture at the Forum des Halles
The second day of the event extended the cultural immersion to the Forum des Halles shopping area, offering an interactive blend of food, arts, and cinematic experiences.
At the first location, seven companies presented cultural exhibitions featuring Japanese meals, including curry or beef bowls, calligraphy stands, and Daruma paintings. A traditional tea ceremony further enchanted participants. The audience was treated to the projection of a video produced by TokyoTokyo, and for the younger attendees, giant coloring books added a touch of creativity.
For cinema enthusiasts, the second location at the Forum des images became a cinematic haven, showcasing films that capture the beauty and excitement of Tokyo. Notable highlights included “Hokusai” by Hajime Hashimoto, “Rendez-vous à Tokyo” by Daigo Matsui, and two short films by French creator Cyprien: “Minori” and “Fujisan.” The audience gained insights into the making of these films and why Tokyo served as a captivating and interesting subject.
Tokyo’s Future as a Global Tourist Hub
Tokyo’s dynamic showcase in Paris not only celebrated the city’s cultural richness but also marked its commitment to a more sustainable and diverse tourism landscape. The fusion of traditional arts, culinary delights, and cinematic experiences underscored Tokyo’s evolution as a global tourist hub. As the city continues to evolve and welcome visitors, these initiatives aim to create a lasting impression, encouraging global travelers to embark on a journey of discovery in the heart of Tokyo.