Minister Angelkova: Tourists from Japan have increased by over 11% since the beginning of the year

Japanese tourists who visited Bulgaria in the period January-September mark an increase of some 11% compared with the same period last year, the Minister of Tourism Nikolina Angelkova said during her meeting with H.E.  Masato Watanabe, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Bulgaria.  She clarified that this makes Japan one of the top 50 generating markets for Bulgarian tourism.  She also specified that the Rose Festival is one of the most demanded and visited events in our country by Japanese guests. In addition, about 3500 Bulgarians visited Japan in the first 9 months of the year, marking an increase of over 60 per cent compared with the same period a year ago.

Minister Angelkova also stated that a special marketing campaign of the Japanese market is set to be prepared aimed at increasing the number of tourists between the two countries.  Journalist exploratory tours are planned, which should contribute to the promotion of Bulgaria among Japanese tourists.

At the meeting, the Minister informed H.E.  Masato Watanabe of the initiatives of the ministry during the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU. She specified that 6 major events are planned and invited representatives of Japan to take part, where appropriate.  Minister Angelkova extended an invitation for participation in the second congress of civilisations. Active preparation is underway and it is set to be held at the end of 2018, the Minister explained.

Opera tourism is a niche that could be developed by Bulgaria, H.E. Masato Watanabe said. He explained that Bulgarian performers of classical music often visit his country and are very popular and liked. In his view, Bulgaria could be advertised for these products and attract visitors travelling for opera events.

H.E. Masato Watanabe took the commitment to work jointly with Minister Angelkova to increase tourist flow. He stated that for the accomplishment of these goal joint events and initiatives could be organised.