Beyond the Brochures: Japan Travel Fair 2025 Sparks Excitement for Filipino Travelers with Cultural Exhibits and Performances

The Japan Travel Fair 2025 drew a strong crowd of travel enthusiasts eager to plan their next visit to Japan at the Glorietta Activity Center, held on the weekend of February 22-23. Organized by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the event showcased Japan’s diverse travel experiences, cultural heritage, and seasonal attractions.

Visitors were met with an extensive lineup of exhibitors from both Japan and the Philippines, offering everything from travel deals to firsthand insights on must-visit destinations.

The exhibitors included representatives from the City of Sapporo showing off its snowy skylines. Hakuba Village was featured, a town for hikers looking to experience Japan’s four seasons up in the mountains. Expo 2025 Osaka, Kanagawa, Ishikawa, and Nagano also had exhibits showcasing the wonders of their prefectures.

Meiji gave out Japan-exclusive chocolate treats, bringing curious and sweet smiles to the guest’s faces with authentic flavors. The joint local government organization J.Clair Singapore handed out brochures that highlighted the more remote areas of Japan.

JR East, Nagoya Central Japan International Airport, TOBU GROUP, and Railway Trip in Kansai provided information for travellers on the best ways to get around the country.

On the Philippine side, major travel partners such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) were in attendance, with Philippine Airlines (PAL) also offering promos and deals for flight tickets. Attic Tours, JTB Asia Pacific, Rakso Air Travel & Tours, Universal Holidays, and JCB International Asia Pacific provided exclusive travel packages and promotions to help Filipinos turn their Japan travel plans into reality.

Each booth brought the unique travel experiences they have to offer to the table, giving attendees a taste of what to expect. The fair wasn’t just about travel, however, as attendees were treated to a slice of Japan’s exciting entertainment scene.

The first day set the tone with the idol group Link Start kicking off the performances, drawing in anime and J-pop fans with their infectious energy. The Filipino alt-rock duo/Youtube cover artists Kena Yokie & Miyuki took the stage next, stealing the crowd’s hearts with their OPM classics translated to Japanese, and their raw vocal performances covering anime songs.

Later, the thunderous beats of the taiko drummers from Groove Manila echoed across the mall, instantly drawing in curious onlookers to join the fun and closing the performances on a high note.

The second day saw an even bigger turnout, with attendees arriving earlier to catch the performances. Sharlla Mae Cerilles, the 18-year-old songbird with multiple awards under her belt, followed with a mix of Japanese and Filipino staples, keeping the energy high and bright.

As the afternoon progressed, the Japanese boy band and Kapuso recording artists Skygarden delivered a dynamic performance, blending exhilarating Japanese-rock with that well-known OPM hard rock sound, appropriately-called “Japinoy Rock” by their loyal fans.

The crowd was then mesmerized by the delicate music of the traditional koto, the performer also from Groove Manila, adding an authentic cultural touch to the event.

The day ended with a vibrant cosplayer showcase from the award-winning Hiraya Cosplay, where fans got a close-up look at expertly-crafted, anime-inspired cosplays.

From morning to evening, the main stage remained a focal point, with crowds gathering to cheer, take photos, and immerse themselves in the mix of modern and traditional Japanese entertainment.

Beyond the performances, the fair kept visitors engaged with a range of interactive activities.

• Lucky Draws were held three times each day, offering attendees who answered the survey the chance to win exclusive Japan-themed prizes, such as admission tickets to Universal Studios Japan, travel passes, and souvenirs.
• Quiz competitions and dance performances encouraged audience participation, adding to the lively atmosphere.
• The Stamp Rally Challenge had visitors exploring the venue to collect stamps, with winners receiving special rewards.
• Early visitors each day were treated to a set of Japanese-themed erasers, including a lucky Maneki Neko.
• At the Visit Japan (VJ) Booth, attendees who completed surveys or downloaded the app received original giveaway items.
• Two themed photo spots–one featuring a scenic Japanese spring landscape and another showcasing a Super Mario and Donkey Kong-inspired background by Universal Studios Japan—gave guests a fun way to capture their experience.

With thousands of people stopping by over the weekend, the Japan Travel Fair 2025 was a vibrant fusion of Filipino and Japanese cultures. From high-energy performances to interactive travel experiences, the event offered a unique space where visitors could immerse themselves in Japan’s traditions while enjoying a lively, local atmosphere, and plan their dream vacations. With an increasing number of budget-friendly flights and travel promotions, it’s now easier than ever for Filipinos to explore Japan’s explosive culture.

For more updates and future events, follow Visit Japan Philippines on Facebook (@visitjapan.ph) and Instagram (@visitjapanph).