05 November 2025 Japan Festival in Riyadh 2025 Celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Dubai Office successfully co-hosted Japan Festival in Riyadh 2025 on October 31 and November 1, in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Saudi Arabia, JETRO Riyadh, and the Riyadh Japanese Association. Held at Cultural Palace within the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ), the event celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the friendship between the two nations. This fifth edition of the event featured a special tourism promotion zone organized by JNTO, designed to introduce visitors to Japan’s diverse regional attractions and lesser-known destinations beyond the major cities. The aim was to inspire visitors to explore new areas of Japan and discover authentic cultural and travel experiences. Within the Japan Tourism Promotion Zone, guests were invited to participate in a range of interactive cultural activities led by experts from Japan. Stage performances and experiential booths showcased traditional arts such as bonsai, tea ceremony, kimono, and calligraphy. At the kimono booth, staff highlighted the harmony between Japan’s traditional kimono and Saudi Arabia’s abaya, while introducing the Kansai region’s renowned silk-weaving culture. Many visitors expressed a desire to experience walking through Japanese streets wearing kimono during their future visits to Japan. At the tea ceremony booth, participants enjoyed matcha and learned about Japan’s tea culture through comparisons with Arabic coffee traditions. The presentation also featured tourism information from Japan’s Chubu region, known for its fine tea-producing areas. These engaging cultural connections between Japan and Saudi Arabia were warmly received, allowing guests to deepen their understanding of Japan’s spirit and hospitality. The two-day event attracted approximately 10,000 visitors, including local residents. Through direct experiences with Japan’s traditional culture, attendees developed a deeper appreciation for Japanese heritage and were inspired to consider traveling to Japan. The event took place at a meaningful time—following the conclusion of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, and leading up to Expo 2030 Riyadh—symbolizing a bridge of friendship and collaboration between the two nations. Japan Festival in Riyadh 2025 concluded on a high note, celebrating the growing ties between Japan and Saudi Arabia through culture and tourism. 【Comments from Mr. Daisuke Kobayashi, Executive Director, JNTO Dubai Office】 
KOBAYASHI Daisuke, Executive Director of JNTO Dubai Office “We were delighted to welcome so many visitors to Japan Festival in Riyadh 2025. This event provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to showcase Japan’s unique culture and diverse travel attractions. In the first half of 2025, the number of visitors to Japan from GCC countries reached 25,224, marking a 19.9% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Saudi Arabia continues to lead the region, with 17,443 visitors recorded in 2024 — the highest among all GCC countries. These numbers reflect the growing interest in Japan across the Middle East. Beyond the major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, Japan offers countless destinations where travelers can experience its natural beauty, peaceful townscapes, and warm local hospitality. We hope this event inspires more Saudi travelers to explore these regions and to enjoy authentic Japanese cultural experiences, further strengthen mutual exchange and understanding between our two countries.”
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