Nara Prefecture, nestled in the Kansai region of Japan, is a destination that seamlessly blends ancient heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural experiences. Known as the cradle of Japanese civilization, Nara is a treasure trove of history, boasting some of the oldest and most significant landmarks in the country.

At the heart of Nara Prefecture is Nara City, home to the iconic Nara Park, where friendly, free-roaming deer offer an enchanting experience for visitors. These revered animals, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto belief, create a unique connection to the spiritual heritage of the region. Within the park, the Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world.

History enthusiasts will also be captivated by the Horyu-ji Temple, another UNESCO-listed site and the oldest wooden structure globally. This temple stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of ancient Japan. Meanwhile, the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, adorned with hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, provides a serene glimpse into Nara’s Shinto traditions.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Nara Prefecture offers breathtaking natural beauty. The Yoshino Mountain, particularly famed for its cherry blossoms, draws nature lovers and photographers from across the globe. During the spring season, the mountain transforms into a pink wonderland, while autumn brings fiery hues of red and gold to its slopes.

The cultural richness of Nara extends to its culinary offerings. Visitors can indulge in Kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and savor freshly brewed sake from the prefecture’s historic breweries.

Nara also caters to modern travelers with vibrant festivals, local markets, and traditional crafts like Nara brushes and Akahada pottery. Accessibility from Kyoto and Osaka makes it an ideal day trip or longer excursion for those exploring the Kansai region.

Nara Prefecture’s harmonious blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty promises an unforgettable journey into Japan’s past while offering experiences that resonate with today’s travelers.

At ICCA Dubai 2024, Travel and Tour World had the privilege of interviewing Yumiko O’Donnell, Coordinator at the Nara Prefectural Government in Japan. Yumiko shared her insights on promoting Nara as a business events destination, the integration of travel technology, and the region’s plans for inbound tourism development.

Reflections on ICCA Dubai 2024

When asked about her experience at ICCA Dubai 2024, Yumiko expressed her enthusiasm. “It’s fantastic. I attended ICCA in Houston in 2019, and the scale and organization here are impressive. Events like these provide valuable networking opportunities and help us stay updated on industry trends,” she said.

Promoting Nara as a Business Event Destination

Yumiko works with the Nara Prefectural Government to position Nara as a leading destination for business events. “Nara is situated next to Osaka and Kyoto, making it an ideal location for business travelers. My role involves assisting associations in organizing events in Nara and attending global forums like ICCA to generate new leads,” she explained.

Participation in ICCA 2024

While Yumiko attended ICCA Dubai as a participant without hosting a booth, she emphasized the importance of networking. “Being here allows me to meet industry professionals, learn about the latest trends, and apply these insights to enhance Nara’s appeal as a business event destination,” she said.

Adopting Travel Technology

Yumiko highlighted the rapid advancements in travel technology and its potential impact on tourism in Nara. “Technologies like AI-powered translation tools are game-changers for Japan, where English proficiency is limited. Such innovations make it easier for inbound tourists to navigate and interact in the region,” she noted.

Yumiko also discussed the development of a travel app designed for Nara’s visitors. “The app can recommend itineraries, provide directions, and even suggest which train to take, simplifying travel for non-Japanese speakers,” she said.

Leveraging Knowledge from ICCA

Attending ICCA provided Yumiko with valuable insights into global travel technology trends. “Although Japan lags in some areas, events like ICCA help us understand how to incorporate innovative solutions to enhance our tourism offerings,” she said.

Future Plans for Nara’s Tourism Development

Yumiko outlined plans to integrate the knowledge gained from ICCA into Nara’s tourism strategies. “Our focus is on improving technology infrastructure to make Nara more accessible for business and leisure travelers. Developing platforms that cater to individual preferences will be a key step,” she explained.

Innovations in Business Events and Tourism

Nara is exploring ways to improve its business events industry. “We are working on platforms that enable event organizers to plan efficiently and provide tailored experiences for participants. Technology will play a vital role in achieving this,” Yumiko shared.

For leisure tourists, Nara aims to offer seamless experiences through advanced tools. “Our app will ensure that tourists can easily plan their trips, even without speaking Japanese. It’s all about making the city more welcoming and convenient,” she said.

Participation in Future Events

Although Yumiko’s team will not attend WTM London due to budget and time constraints, they plan to participate in IBTM World in Spain next month. “These events are crucial for understanding global trends and forming partnerships that benefit our region,” she emphasized.

Yumiko O’Donnell’s insights highlight Nara’s dedication to becoming a leading destination for business events and leisure tourism. By leveraging technology and global networking opportunities, Nara is well-positioned to attract diverse travelers and establish itself as a key player in Japan’s tourism landscape.

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