The Embassy of Cambodia in Japan is ramping up its initiatives to attract more Japanese tourists, as part of a broader strategy to enhance the country's tourism sector. 

Sin Saray, commercial attache of the embassy, highlighted its commitment to fostering closer ties between the two countries, aiming to boost tourism and cultural exchange.

"Prior to the Covid-19 crisis, Japan was among the top 10 countries with the highest number of visitors to Cambodia," Saray stated, on behalf of Cambodian ambassador to Japan Tuy Ry.

"However, Japanese tourism almost completely declined during the period when the Cambodian government, as well as the world, was fighting the deadly disease," he said. 

A report by the Ministry of Tourism, released in June, indicates a resurgence of Japanese visitors. 

"54,849 Japanese tourists visited Cambodia in the first six months of 2024, marking a 54.2 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023," Saray noted. 

He said this resurgence places Japan once again among the country’s top 10 sources of visitors.

He attributed the growth to the efforts of the government, led by Prime Minister Hun Manet, in promoting tourism development and maintaining peace and prosperity. 

"Cambodia's potential and attractiveness are motivating factors for our Japanese friends to visit and invest," Saray added.

People attend an event at the annual Cambodia Expo, held from May 3-4 this year at Yoyogi Park in Tokyo, Japan. Cambodian embassy in Japan

Strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties

In December 2023, during a meeting in the Japanese capital of Tokyo, the two nations marked the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. 

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea and his Japanese counterpart Yoko Kamikawa underscored the importance of further strengthening people-to-people exchanges.

They also celebrated the upgrade of the two countries’ relationship to a "comprehensive strategic partnership".

To attract Japanese tourists, Saray said, the embassy has been organising various programmes to promote Cambodian arts and culture. 

He noted these include Cambodia’s National Cultural Day, Khmer New Year and Independence Day, celebrated both at the embassy and in various Japanese provinces. 

“Traditional Khmer festivals such as … the Water Festival and Ok Ambok are also highlighted to foster a deeper appreciation of Cambodian culture among the Japanese people,” Saray told The Post. 

Showcasing Cambodia's rich heritage

An important event in this promotional effort is the annual Cambodia Expo, recently held from May 3-4, at Yoyogi Park in Tokyo. 

A Japanese woman learns to play a traditional Cambodian instrument at the annual Cambodia Expo in Tokyo. Cambodian embassy in Japan

Established in 2015, with exceptions in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the expo has become a major platform for promoting Cambodia’s economic diplomacy, trade, investment, tourism, arts and culture. 

“The 2024 event attracted over 80,000 Japanese, Cambodian and international participants, featuring traditional Khmer dance performances, Cambodian food and cultural exhibitions,” said Saray. 

The embassy also highlights Cambodia’s UNESCO-listed cultural heritage sites, such as Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear, Sambor Prei Kuk and Koh Ker, through photo exhibitions and presentations. 

Intangible heritage assets like the Royal Ballet, including Apsara and the Blessing dance, and shadow theatre (Sbek Thom or ‘big skin’ theatre) are regularly showcased to promote Khmer culture.

Facilitating tourism and investment

To facilitate the growing interest in Cambodia, the embassy maintains close ties with Japanese tour companies and key operators in the sector. 

“The Consulate General of the Cambodian Embassy expedites visa issuance for Japanese and international guests, ensuring a seamless travel experience,” Saray told The Post. 

He said it also provides recommendations for entertainment venues in Cambodia, making visitors feel welcome and valued.

Saray added that looking ahead, it plans to participate in major international events such as the Osaka World Expo 2025, scheduled from April to October 2025. 

With an anticipated 28.2 million visitors, including 3.5 million from abroad, the event presents an excellent opportunity to showcase the country’s tourism potential to a global audience.

Tourists shop for goods and souvenirs at the night market in Siem Reap province in October 2023. Hong Raksmey

A bright future for Cambodia-Japan tourism

According to the Cambodia Tourism Statistics Report, Japanese travellers have shown a significant presence in Cambodia, with almost 55,000 arrivals in the first half of 2024. 

The increase indicates a growing interest in the country’s attractions and cultural heritage. 

“Japan ranks tenth among the top ten source countries for international tourist arrivals in Cambodia, reflecting the strong tourism ties between the two nations,” the report stated. 

Recent statistics from state-run Angkor Enterprise show that from January 1 to August 2, 586,260 foreign visitors purchased the Angkor Pass, generating over $2.151 million in revenue in June alone. 

This robust interest in visiting the Angkor Wat temple complex underscores the Kingdom’s enduring appeal as a premier tourist destination.