RRI.CO.ID, Tokyo - Indonesia is strengthening its tourism cooperation with Japan through a strategic meeting with the Japan Tourism Agency in Tokyo Monday, March 30, 2026. The meeting was led by Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, and JTA Commissioner, Shigeki Murata.

The engagement marked an important step in deepening bilateral dialogue on sustainable and high-quality tourism development. Both sides explored opportunities to share experiences and best practices in managing tourism growth.

During the meeting, Indonesia expressed interest in learning from Japan’s tourism strategy. Japan’s ambitious target of attracting 60 million international visitors by 2030 was highlighted as a key reference point.

The strategy is considered relevant as Indonesia continues to enhance its tourism competitiveness. Efforts are focused on developing quality destinations and managing visitor flows sustainably.

The minister also emphasized the importance of gastronomy as a key element of national tourism identity. Japan was cited as a successful example of integrating culinary culture into its global tourism appeal.

“We see how Japan has successfully positioned gastronomy as a core attraction in its tourism sector. Indonesia is developing a similar approach through the Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy program,” she said.

Indonesia is currently leading the ASEAN Gastronomy Network initiative. The program aims to connect culinary heritage, agriculture, and cultural traditions into a unified tourism experience across Southeast Asia.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening innovative and sustainable tourism cooperation. The collaboration is expected to boost visitor growth, cultural exchange, and the development of a stronger tourism ecosystem.