Deepening Ties With Japan

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H.E. Shigeo Yamada, Ambassador of Japan, The Hon. WILLIAM KIMMITT, Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeMr. Shigeki Murata, Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency — Photo by Couurtesy Embassy of Japan

Written by Sakura Buker

Japan is experiencing an influx of enthusiastic foreign tourists as of late, and the Japanese government hopes to keep this momentum going. The Embassy of Japan welcomed a host of Japanese businesses–from Japan Railways Group to iconic snack company Bourbon Foods–to promote cross-cultural tourism between the U.S. and Japan. Ambassador Shigeo Yamada delivered the night’s opening remarks, noting that mutual tourism has the power to strengthen international relationships.

Also in attendance were Undersecretary of Commerce William Kimmet and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner. In his opening remarks, Turner praised the ambassador’s residence and the broader refinement of Japanese culture. “This is a beautiful, beautiful place. I cannot believe that it was built 50 years ago, but it does speak to the excellence in which the culture of your people do everything,” he said. Turner also highlighted the strength of the US-Japan partnership, noting that as America approaches its 250th anniversary, the country remains committed to deepening ties with Japan and its allies.

The event showcased a strategic shift in Japan’s tourism promotion efforts. Rather than concentrating exclusively on Japan’s most famous destinations, tourism boards from lesser-traveled prefectures participated alongside major companies like Japan Airlines to highlight regional attractions and hidden gems across the country. This approach reflects a broader initiative to distribute tourism benefits more equitably throughout Japan and introduce American visitors to authentic local experiences beyond the typical Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto circuit.