Japan looks forward to working with the Novgorod Region on tourism

This is the gist of the conversation held today via videoconference as part of the Discover Russia project, organised by the Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian Cooperation (Rossotrudnichestvo) representative office in Japan.

Representatives of the Novgorod Region’s tourism and cultural sectors presented our region to the Japanese participants, talked about opportunities for developing the tourism sector, and discussed the programme for marking Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 200th birthday in 2021.

The Japanese speakers expressed interest in ecotourism, specifically, the Great Valdai Trail hiking route, as well as the food festival inspired by Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s writings, “Come along, prince, are you hungry?” It took place for the first time this year in the Novgorod Region, organised by #NovgorodianRus.

A Rossotrudnichestvo representative in Japan, Igor Titov, said that the local cuisine is one of the most interesting parts of the programme for many foreign tourists. He proposed organising a tour focused on Dostoyevsky.

Overall, Igor Titov went on to say, the Novgorod Region has a rich history and a brilliant future ahead. This is a vibrant region, which has great importance for the Japanese in terms of the overall trends in the tourism sector.

Today, the region has more than 5,000 cultural heritage sites, remarkable museums, cosy hotels and marvellous estates. Outdoor, eco and culinary tourism are all gaining traction, along with tailor-made tours and individual offerings. Younger tourists can take part in various workshops, and there are petting zoos and entertainment centres for them to enjoy as well. Every year, the region hosts more than 280 events, including international ones. Tour operators offer weekend trips to Veliky Novgorod, Borovichi, Staraya Russia, Valdai and other cities.