Embassy in Tokyo tells Japanese tourists Sri Lanka is ready

Tuesday, 6 January 2026 01:18 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sri Lankan Embassy in Tokyo hosted a specialised tourism networking session titled “Sri Lanka Is Ready” on 16 December at the Embassy premises, bringing together key stakeholders from Japan’s travel and tourism industry.

The session aimed to provide accurate, up-to-date information on Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, reaffirm the country’s readiness for the peak travel season, and strengthen engagement with the Japanese market.

Welcoming the participants, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Japan Prof. Pivithuru Janak Kumarasinghe underscored the Embassy’s strong commitment to enhancing tourism cooperation and promoting people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and Japan.

The Ambassador addressed concerns arising from recent flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah, providing a transparent and factual update on the situation. It was emphasised that while restoration work continues in limited areas, Sri Lanka has returned to normalcy at a rapid pace, with major tourist destinations, hotels, and services remaining open, safe, and fully operational.

On behalf of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Sri Lankan Embassy in Tokyo First Secretary – Commercial Sandun Sameera delivered a detailed presentation outlining the current tourism landscape in Sri Lanka, highlighting recovery efforts, destination readiness, and positive indicators for the upcoming peak season.

The session also featured a screening of tourist testimonial videos, showcasing real-time experiences of international visitors currently travelling in Sri Lanka. These first-hand accounts provided an authentic perspective on the island’s safety, natural beauty, and renowned hospitality.

Representing the affected hospitality sector in Sri Lanka, Karunakarala Ayurveda Resort Director B.K.G. Wataru shared first-hand insights on the impact of the recent flooding and the swift recovery of affected establishments. He highlighted the coordinated support extended by the Government of Sri Lanka and relevant stakeholders, which enabled the timely reopening of tourism facilities and the resumption of normal operations.

The event concluded with an interactive discussion and Q&A session, focusing on strengthening engagement with Japanese travel industry partners and facilitating direct dialogue with Embassy officials.

Sri Lankan Embassy in Tokyo Counsellor Thilini Gunarathne delivered the vote of thanks and invited participants to convey the message that Sri Lanka is ready to Japanese travellers. Participants were also briefed on the launch of the #SriLankaIsReady social media campaign, encouraging industry stakeholders to amplify positive and factual messaging on Sri Lanka as a travel destination.

The networking session concluded with authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and Ceylon tea, providing participants with an opportunity for informal interaction and cultural exchange.