TOKYO, November 4. /Dunyo IA/.   Hannan University in Japan hosted a seminar entitled “Discover Uzbekistan”, dedicated to the tourism potential of Uzbekistan and the prospects for developing cooperation between the two countries in the fields of tourism and education, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Event was organized by the Embassy of our country, the Uzbekistan Tourism and Culture Association in Japan, and Hannan University. It was attended by representatives of Japanese tourism companies “Nankai Travel International”, “Kuoni Tumlare” and “Kaze Travel”, as well as the university leadership, faculty members, students and local residents.

Primary objective of the seminar was to promote the historical and cultural heritage, tourist routes and modern opportunities of Uzbekistan in the Japanese market, as well as to increase the interest of Japanese travelers in the country.

Diplomats of Uzbekistan outlined the reforms in the tourism industry, the development of infrastructure, and the creation of comfortable conditions for foreign guests. During the presentation, the landmarks of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and other historical cities were also showcased, alongside sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, tourism potential of the regions, national cuisine and traditions.

The interest of Japanese tourists in Uzbekistan continues to grow. In January–September 2026, more than 36,000 citizens of Japan visited the country for tourism purposes, which exceeds the indicator for the entirety of 2025.

Akane Masaoka, Representative of the Uzbekistan Tourism and Culture Association in Japan, spoke about the features of the country that attract Japanese travelers and the opportunities for organizing trips. Seigi Shibata, Associate Professor at Hannan University, outlined the prospects for expanding scientific and educational ties, student exchanges and intercultural dialogue. Students who had previously traveled to Uzbekistan on study tours also shared their impressions.

Program included the screening of videos highlighting the country's tourist destinations, an interactive question-and-answer session, and a quiz. The participants were provided with tourist maps and brochures in the Japanese language and samples of Uzbek national craftsmanship were showcased.

Particular attention was paid to educational cooperation. During a meeting with the President of the University, Hiroshi Hirayama, Vice President Mayumi Nishimoto and Dean of the Faculty of International Studies, Yuji Inoue, the prospects for interaction with higher educational institutions of Uzbekistan were discussed.

Following the negotiations, an agreement was reached to organize a study visit of a Hannan University delegation to Namangan State University in April–May 2027 and to draft a memorandum of understanding between the higher educational institutions. The parties also intend to consider joint projects in the field of tourism education and cultural exchange.

Furthermore, prospects were outlined for the exchange of experience between faculty members, the delivery of online lectures and joint seminars, and the study of Japanese experience in training specialists for the tourism industry. It is also planned to regularly host presentations and cultural events dedicated to Uzbekistan at Hannan University.