More than 800,000 Filipinos visited Japan in 2024, underscoring the growing people-to-people ties between the two countries, Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuya Endo said at the Japan National Day celebrated recently.
The Ambassador expressed his optimism that this number will continue to rise, with plans to strengthen visa services through the establishment of a new visa center at the Japanese Embassy in Manila.
“We hope that even more will visit Japan,” said Ambassador Endo, referring to the steady increase in Filipino tourists traveling to Japan.
The Ambassador also pointed out that Filipino food and services are gaining recognition in Japan, contributing to the deepening of mutual economic relations.
He said the expected improvements to the visa issuance system aim to make it easier for Filipinos to explore Japan’s rich cultural and natural attractions.
Ambassador Endo also shared an exciting development for 2025, with the Osaka-Kansai Expo set to take place from April to October.
He said the Philippines will have its own pavilion at the Expo, which will offer an additional platform for cultural exchange and tourism promotion.
“I encourage everyone to visit and enjoy the exciting booths and gourmet offerings that reflect the heart of Japan,” he said, of the various booths of Japanese products outside the reception area.
With these initiatives, he said Japan aims to continue fostering stronger cultural ties and increased tourism between the two countries in the years to come.
