China’s Zhejiang Province Boosts Japanese Tourism with New Travel Itineraries and Cultural Exchange Programs at 2025 Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar
Home»Latest Travel News of Asia» China’s Zhejiang Province Boosts Japanese Tourism with New Travel Itineraries and Cultural Exchange Programs at 2025 Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Zhejiang, China is emerging as a vibrant travel destination, and if its efforts to stimulate tourism with nearby Japan are any indication, things have never been clearer. The 2025 Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar in Tokyo on July 10 was a key step toward promoting closer tourism relations between the two sides. [Description] The tours, organized by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism, showcased Zhejiang’s rich tourism resources and sought to find common ground for future cooperation between Zhejiang and Japan.
The symposium emphasized the importance of tourism in promoting cultural exchange, and enhancing trust among peoples. As an integral part of China’s overall tourism strategy, Zhejiang is eager to court more international tourists, especially from Japan, to its abundant cultural resources, beautiful natural scenery and burgeoning travel infrastructure. This transaction also coincides with a critical juncture as tourism is recognised more and more as a driver for sustainable economic growth and cultural diplomacy between the two countries of China and Japan.
Zhejiang’s Growing Role in International Tourism
Zhejiang Province, located on the eastern coast of China, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, ancient temples, vibrant cultural scenes, and modern urban attractions. The province, with its capital Hangzhou, has long been a popular destination for domestic tourists, particularly due to its association with historical sites like the iconic West Lake and its status as a hub for innovation and technology. However, the province’s tourism offerings are now reaching beyond China’s borders as it seeks to establish itself as a premier destination for international travelers, especially those from Japan.
According to official reports from the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism, the province has been strategically enhancing its tourism infrastructure to cater to the growing demand for international tourism, with a focus on Japanese visitors. The seminar in Tokyo provided a platform for industry representatives from both China and Japan to discuss the evolving tourism trends and market demands that will shape future collaborations.
Key Takeaways from the 2025 Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar
The Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar proved to be an invaluable opportunity for industry stakeholders from both regions to come together and share insights into the future of tourism cooperation. Here are some key highlights from the event:
New Itinerary Development One of the central aspects of the seminar was the introduction of new travel itineraries tailored specifically to the needs of the Japanese outbound tourism market. These itineraries aim to enhance travel experiences by focusing on Zhejiang’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant city life, while also providing unique experiences that resonate with Japanese tourists’ preferences. These bespoke tours are designed to ensure a seamless and immersive experience for travelers from Japan.
Cultural and Tourism Ties The seminar highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties between Zhejiang and Japan. This was emphasized through discussions on how tourism fosters greater understanding, respect, and long-term friendship between nations. Zhejiang’s rich history, coupled with its modern-day developments, makes it a compelling destination for cultural exchanges, which has been an essential part of the province’s tourism strategy.
Sustainable Tourism Growth The event also focused on the importance of sustainable tourism growth. Both Zhejiang and Japan are committed to ensuring that their tourism growth is environmentally responsible and benefits local communities. By promoting sustainable tourism practices, both regions aim to provide tourists with authentic experiences while preserving the cultural and natural heritage that makes Zhejiang unique.
Expanded Tourism Cooperation With continued cooperation between industry stakeholders, Zhejiang and Japan are set to expand their tourism relationship further. The seminar laid the foundation for deeper collaboration, particularly in areas like travel packages, marketing strategies, and visitor services. The goal is to create a robust tourism ecosystem that benefits both nations economically and culturally.
Zhejiang’s Tourism Assets: Why Japan Should Take Notice
Zhejiang has an abundance of tourism assets that make it a standout destination for Japanese travelers. From its vibrant cities to tranquil landscapes, Zhejiang offers a diverse range of experiences that appeal to a wide variety of interests. Below are just a few reasons why Zhejiang is attracting attention from international visitors:
West Lake in Hangzhou West Lake, located in Hangzhou, is one of China’s most famous and picturesque destinations. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year. Known for its stunning natural beauty, West Lake offers travelers the opportunity to experience classical Chinese gardens, historic temples, and serene boat rides. For Japanese tourists who appreciate the calm and tranquility of nature, West Lake offers the perfect escape.
The Ancient Water Towns Zhejiang is home to several ancient water towns, such as Xitang and Wuzhen, which offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. These towns are known for their charming canals, ancient architecture, and picturesque landscapes. They provide an idyllic setting for those looking to experience a slower pace of life, much like the peaceful atmosphere that many Japanese travelers enjoy in their home country.
Cultural and Historical Attractions Zhejiang’s rich cultural heritage is a significant draw for visitors. The province is home to ancient temples, pagodas, and cultural relics, including the Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou, one of China’s largest and most famous Buddhist temples. Zhejiang also boasts many historical sites associated with famous Chinese philosophers and poets, making it a culturally enriching destination for Japanese tourists interested in history and culture.
Modern Urban Attractions In addition to its historical and natural beauty, Zhejiang also offers modern urban experiences. Hangzhou, in particular, is an economic and technological powerhouse, hosting the headquarters of Alibaba and offering a thriving cultural and creative scene. The city is a blend of the old and the new, making it a dynamic destination for travelers seeking a mix of tradition and innovation.
The Future of Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Cooperation
The tourism relationship between Zhejiang and Japan is set to flourish, with more joint initiatives planned in the coming years. Both regions are committed to building a sustainable and mutually beneficial tourism partnership. The 2025 Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar has paved the way for the development of new tourism products and experiences that cater to Japanese tourists’ interests, and it’s clear that Zhejiang’s tourism strategy will continue to evolve as it seeks to deepen its engagement with the Japanese market.
As international travel continues to recover, both Zhejiang and Japan are well-positioned to reap the benefits of their strengthened tourism ties. Through continued collaboration and innovative approaches, the two regions will further solidify their tourism relationship and continue to foster cultural exchange, mutual respect, and economic growth.
Final Thoughts on Zhejiang’s Tourism Potential
The 2025 Zhejiang-Japan Tourism Exchange Seminar in Tokyo has set the stage for a new era in tourism cooperation between Zhejiang and Japan. By emphasizing cultural exchange, sustainability, and innovative travel itineraries, Zhejiang is positioning itself as a key player in the global tourism market. As more Japanese travelers explore the beauty, culture, and modernity of Zhejiang, the province’s tourism sector is expected to thrive, offering visitors a memorable and enriching experience.
For further details on tourism opportunities in Zhejiang, visitors can refer to the official website of the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism for the latest updates on itineraries and events.
Ponant is deepening its presence in French Polynesia with the introduction of brand-new winter itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier beginning with the 2026-27 season.
These new itineraries complement the Group’s long-established leadership in the region with Paul Gauguin Cruises, which has been sailing the islands year-round for more than 26 years as French Polynesia’s destination expert.
The new itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier will take guests deeper into French Polynesia than ever before, with rare calls to the remote Gambier and Austral Islands. In addition to exploring the Society Islands, Tuamotus, and Marquesas, these exclusive voyages offer an exceptional opportunity to experience the full richness of the region to archipelagos that The Gauguin doesn’t visit. Each archipelago is shaped by its own vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty, revealing the diverse character of French Polynesia in extraordinary depth.
“With the debut of Le Jacques Cartier in French Polynesia, Ponant Explorations Group now offers two unique ways to experience the extraordinary with our distinctively positioned brands appealing to every inclination for both expedition and leisure travel,” said Samuel Chamberlain, Ponant Exploration Group’s CEO of the Americas. “While the m/s Paul Gauguin continues to define immersive, year-round discovery in the region, the winter deployment of Le Jacques Cartier brings a new perspective—more remote and more expeditionary. Both brands share the hallmarks of our Group: a commitment to meaningful travel through cultural immersion, French flair, environmental stewardship, and expert-led enrichment.
“With Le Jacques Cartier joining The Gauguin in Polynesia, we’re expanding the choices available to discerning travelers seeking authenticity, elegance, and adventure,and cementing our leadership position in the region as the destination expert,” Chamberlain added.
From October 2026 through February 2027, the two new itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier will be offered in addition to voyages to the Marquesas. All three 14-night itineraries travel roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti, and are available for booking now.
TTC Tour Brands announced the addition of 16 new itineraries for 2026 travel across its Trafalgar, Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold brands. The expansion represents the company’s largest introduction of new trips in seven years.
The new tours span five continents and include nature escapes, culinary explorations, heritage adventures and women-only departures. All tours come with the company’s “Price Drop Promise,” which guarantees travelers the best available price even if tour costs decrease after booking.
“With destinations like Portugal, South Korea and the Balkans trending for 2025, a growing demand for women-only experiences and a desire for multi-country adventures, these new itineraries tap directly into travelers’ emerging desires through more meaningful experiences,” said Melissa DaSilva, deputy CEO of TTC Tour Brands. “Enhanced with our signature experiences and guidance from local experts, these new trips allow travelers to make valuable connections with the places they visit. We’re not just adding more destinations, we’re meeting our travelers’ desire to connect more deeply with the world and with themselves.
Trafalgar will offer nearly 10 new itineraries covering scenic U.S. destinations and European cities. The additions include a 12-day Spain, Morocco and Portugal Whirl connecting the three diverse cultures, a 9-day Best of Romania, Transylvania and Hungary tour featuring gothic castles and medieval villages and a 9-day Balkans Coast Explorer covering Albania, Croatia and Montenegro. Other new Trafalgar itineraries include an 11-day family-oriented English Adventure, a 9-day Villages of France slow-travel experience and an 11-day Best of Sri Lanka itinerary.
Insight Vacations will launch more than five new itineraries including its first Women’s Only trip series. New offerings include a 10-day Adriatic Escape from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, a 13-day Wonders of Sri Lanka journey, a 9-day Soul of the Deep South tour focusing on Civil Rights history and music trails, a 12-day Heart of Patagonia trek through Argentina and Chile and a 9-day Contrasts of Brazil and Argentina experience.
Luxury Gold will add two new experiences: a 10-day Spectacular Scotland tour covering the Highlands, ancestral estates and including a champagne cruise on Loch Lomond, and an 11-day Ultimate Portugal journey from Porto to the Algarve featuring wine, architecture and coastal experiences with a Douro River cruise and cathedral visits in Evora and Coimbra.
The new tours are available for booking now for 2026 departures through the TTC Tour Brands Travel Advisor Portal. TTC Tour Brands operates Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Luxury Gold and other travel brands.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by TTC Tour Brands. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
TTC Tour Brands will launch 16 new itineraries next year, marking the company’s largest itinerary expansion in seven years.
Trafalgar will introduce eight
itineraries next year; Insight Vacations will launch six; and Luxury
Gold will debut two.
Melissa DaSilva, deputy CEO of TTC Tour Brands, said the itineraries reflect the growing demand for women-only travel and multicountry tours.
Some of the new TTC tours
The Trafalgar itineraries will bring travelers to Europe, Asia and the U.S. The Spain, Morocco & Portugal Whirl itinerary will span 12 days, taking travelers to cities like Madrid, Costa del Sol, Tangier and Lisbon. The 10-day South Korea Tour to Seoul, Gyeongju and Busan itinerary visits the Korean Demilitarized Zone and Hahoe Village, a Unesco World Heritage site, and includes a rice-wine tasting in Busan.
In the U.S., travelers can take advantage of the Scenic Great Lakes with Mackinac Island itinerary. The nine-day trip starts in Chicago and ends in Detroit, with two nights on Michigan’s car-free Mackinac Island.
One of the tineraries being introduced by Insight Vacations is a women-only tour of the Southern U.S., the nine-day Soul of the Deep South, a Women-Only Tour through Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana.
Luxury Gold, which specializes in luxury small groups, will operate Spectacular Scotland and Ultimate Portugal. The Scotland itinerary explores the country across 10 days and includes the highlands, Edinburgh and the Isle of Mull. The Portugal trip features a foodie tour in Porto, a wine tasting in the Douro Valley and a visit to the Algarve.
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