(Tokyo, Japan) Thousands of travel agents and international media have filled the halls of the Tokyo Big Sight in Japan as Lt. Governor Ray Tenorio and Team Guam return for the JATA Tourism EXPO. The four-day event is the result of a merger between the Tabi Fair and JATA Tabihaku to form the largest and most comprehensive tourism expo in Japan’s history. 

Centering on the theme of  “The Power of Travel”, Guam is among over 150 countries and regions around the globe being showcased on an international stage. 

“JATA kicked off its Friday activities with the opening of its International Tourism Forum. It was exciting to hear Prince Akishino and JATA Chairman Hiromi Tagawa speak about Japan celebrating 50 years of overseas travel,” said Lt. Governor Ray Tenorio. “I think it compliments Guam’s history very well as we just celebrated 50 years of tourism last year. JATA is a great venue to showcase Guam and encourage people from all walks of life to visit our island paradise.”

The Guam booth also has a pronounced presence as several businesses have joined the expo to promote the island. They include United, Dusit Thani, Lotte Hotel/ Lotte Duty Free, Skydive Guam, JCB International Micronesia/Shift Guam and the Pleasure Island Group (T Galleria by DFS, Outrigger, the Plaza, Sea Grill, Sky Lounge, Hard Rock Guam, SandCastle and Mandara Spa).

Additionally, Guam’s 4,000 year old culture is front and center with the “Experience Chamorro Culture” exhibit space occupied by some of the best weavers and carvers that are representing the island. The Mt. Carmel School Phoenix Stage Band, Jesse and Ruby, Pa’a Taotao Tano and the Chamorro Dance Academy will also be lighting up the expo hall with their talents.

“This weekend we have the opportunity to thank the Japanese people for being great partners over the last 50 years and continue networking with industry professionals that can help us reach our Tourism 2020 goals,” said GVB General Manager Karl Pangelinan. “Through the power of travel, Guam’s story has reached new heights and we are proud to represent our people at this expo.”

This evening, Guam is hosting a reception for travel trade partners to celebrate the 25 million Japanese visitors that have chosen to come to the island since 1967.  The reception is another way to show appreciation to those that have supported the island’s travel industry and continue to promote Guam as a safe and satisfying destination.

Media Contact: JOSH TYQUIENGCO - Public Information Officer