Karnataka urged to open tourism office in Tokyo

Consul General of Japan Takayuki Kitagawa on Friday urged the Karnataka government to open a full-fledged Tourism Information Office in Tokyo.

"The Japanese government has already initiated talks with Karnataka authorities to establish a Tourism Information Centre in Tokyo and they are eagerly waiting for the consent after all diplomatic protocols are put in place," Kitagawa said while addressing the Invest Japan Seminar on Tourism and Allied Sectors.

The seminar was organised by Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) and Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO).

He revealed that many young Japanese women are keen to learn about Ayurveda and if a tourism office could be established in Japan, it will greatly facilitate them to come here and learn the practice.

"If young Japanese women visit Bangalore, obviously they will also be accompanied by young men and if possible even elderly population. It is a win-win-situation for both Japan and Karnataka as far as tourism is concerned," he said.

As far as setting up of industrial bases in Japan, Kitagawa proposed that companies keen to establish business enterprises in Japan can form a common banner under the Karnataka Business Association so that it will be easier to set up companies in Japan.

Kazuya Nakajo, Chief Director General of JETRO India, delivered the keynote speech and highlighted how the Japanese government is proactively bringing in many policy-based changes to make the business climate congenial for overseas companies.

BCIC President Thyagu Valliappa said there are lot of similarities between India and Japan both culturally and business-wise.

"As far as tourism is concerned, there is a huge potential and scope to increase tourist inflows from both the countries which is right now minuscule," he added.

--IANS

str/ksk/dg