Cassandra NervaSingaporeans, rejoice! Japan Fair 2022 will launch as a comprehensive, digitally immersive tour from 28 Jan to 13 Mar 2022. Organised by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Singapore Office in collaboration with multiple prefectural government agencies and travel partners, Japan Fair 2022 aims to bring the beauty of the country’s culture, heritage, and experiences to Singaporeans through an immersive online experience.
Also read: Traditional Towns & Villages in Japan That You Absolutely Have to Visit
Through various live tours and events, participants will have the opportunity to visit hidden spots and witness local festivals — all from the comfort of home.
Lineup at Japan Fair 2022
1. Virtual tours
Ritsurin Garden in Kagawa Prefecture | Image credit: Leung Cho Pan via Canva Pro
Do you miss walking through the lush verdant landscapes of Japan? Then, look forward to an array of virtual tours at Japan Fair 2022! These will bring you through popular cultural attractions, from Ritsurin Garden in Kagawa Prefecture to Shurijo Castle Park in Okinawa Prefecture.
2. Omiyage
Image credit: Jacob Ehnmark
While Omiyage translates to ‘souvenirs’ in English, this Japanese practice differs from its Western counterpart in several ways.
Firstly, Omiyage specifically refers to souvenirs that you’re buying for your family, friends, and colleagues after returning from a trip. Secondly, Omiyage is usually edible; options include sweet treats like candy and cake, and savoury ones like rice crackers and dried snacks. Thirdly (and perhaps most importantly), what you give as Omiyage is representative of the place that it’s purchased from.
During Japan Fair 2022, learn more about the cultural significance of Omiyage, and discover where you can get authentic Omiyage products in Singapore!
Also read: Japanese Snacks Guide: Best Japanese Snacks to Try!
3. Local experiences
Sake Brewery in Ishikawa Prefecture | Image credit: Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Singapore Office
Witness how locals live by exploring Japan’s countryside and the everyday activities that they partake in. Besides craft workshops and farm activities, look forward to hanami (cherry blossom viewing), sake-making, firefly-watching, cycling around remote hot springs, language courses, and a unique local stay in Akita Prefecture.
Rest assured that these virtual experiences will be an authentic one, as some of these are hosted by locals!
4. Live events
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori Prefecture Image credit: Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Singapore Office
As part of Japan Fair 2022, participants can look forward to discovering Japan’s traditions and history through a series of immersive cultural workshops and tours! This will be broadcast over a three-day live event segment from across Japan, and will feature the prefectures of Akita, Nagano, Ehime, Kochi, Kanagawa, Mie, Aomori, Ishikawa, Miyagi, and Okinawa.
Events include an oyster tour, a snow town tour, a sake brewery tour, and a trip to the Ninja Museum! The segment will go live on 13, 19, and 26 Feb 2022, and can be accessed by clicking here.
Beyond the series of activities and virtual tours, participants at Japan Fair 2022 will stand a chance to win S$1000 worth of travel vouchers, as well as Takashimaya vouchers worth S$100 and more!
So, what are you waiting for? Bookmark your calendars for 28 Jan and we’ll see you at Japan Fair 2022!
Information extracted from a press release by Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Singapore Office.
