By the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Japan has long been the top travel destination for Taiwanese, and their curiosity about Japanese culture remains high. The largest-ever Japanese tourism and culture expo in Taiwan, "Touch the Japan ~ Discover New Horizons, Rediscover Japan ~", will take place from April 17 to 20 at the Expo Dome of Taipei Expo Park, giving Taiwanese the chance to experience the latest trends in Japanese food, fashion, living, and transportation all in one go. Up to 60 exhibitors from across Japan will bring a rich and authentic taste of Japanese culture.
The four-day exhibition allows Taiwanese to experience the latest trends from various regions of Japan without leaving the country. (Photo / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Zhang Yingying)
Tens of thousands of square meters of exhibition space gather Japanese local governments and corporate groups, with an expected 80,000 visitors over the four days. Exhibitors are generously offering limited-edition travel packages worth NT$888, with ten lucky winners drawn each day to enjoy a trip to Japan. AKB48’s general manager, Minami Takahashi, will lead a super-popular group of members in their first live performance in Taiwan. In addition, three of Japan’s hottest idol groups will appear over the four days, along with exclusive performances never before seen in Taiwan throughout the day and night.
ANA Airlines of Japan offers visitors a business class service experience, bringing the thrill of Japanese air travel without boarding a plane. (Photo / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Zhang Yingying)
Highlights of the Exhibition:
April 17: AKB48’s Golden Lineup Makes Their First Appearance at the Expo
Japan’s super-popular idol group AKB48 will perform live from 1:30 to 2:00 pm on the first day of the exhibition. This performance features the highest-caliber lineup to date, led by General Manager Minami Takahashi, alongside Kawamoto Sayaya, known as the “Rising Star” and “Most Anticipated Newcomer,” and Mukaihara Mion, dubbed the “Successor to Yuko Oshima” and a former child actress. The trio will deliver a half-hour “AKB48 Hot Stage” show. This performance holds special meaning for long-time AKB48 fans, as it marks the rare appearance of founding member Minami Takahashi before her “graduation” at the end of 2015. Now, without flying to Japan, fans can experience the farewell performance of a representative figure from AKB’s “legendary era” for just NT$200.
Kawamoto Sayaya (left) and Mukaihara Mion (right) performing in the “AKB48 Hot Stage” show led by Minami Takahashi. (Image provided by the Largest-Ever Japanese Tourism Culture Expo in Taiwan, Copyright: (C) AKS)
April 18: Kokone Mameno and StarMarie Take the Stage in Succession
Kokone Mameno, whose debut single ranked 8th on the Oricon Daily Singles Chart in Japan, will kick off the exciting stage activities on the second day from 11:00 to 11:40 am. Known for leading the audience in synchronized movements during her performances, she has earned the nickname “The Idol of Mass Movement.” Meanwhile, the Japanese lolita group StarMarie, who have a fanbase spanning Europe and America, will perform in Taiwan for the third time, showcasing their deep appreciation for their Taiwanese fans. The two vastly different performances are sure to offer Taiwanese fans a refreshing audiovisual experience.The Most Spectacular Stage Event – Experience the Visual Impact of “Sheer Numbers”
On the 17th and 18th, the event will also feature the first-ever dance performance in Taiwan by 100 of Japan’s super-popular robots, “Robi.” Their synchronized movements and agile walking style will be on full display. In addition, throughout the four-day exhibition from April 17 to 20, there will be unexpected performances every day. An ultra-large seamless 8K screen, over 50 meters wide and 5 meters tall, will make its Taiwan debut, immersing visitors in the beauty of Japan. Uji tea, ninjas, the traditional “Yosakoi” whistle dance, and taiko drummers will all be present, guaranteeing a non-stop spectacular lineup that promises excitement every day.
ROBI robots, hugely popular in Japan, will make their first full-group performance in Taiwan with 100 robots on stage. (Image provided by the Largest-Ever Japanese Tourism Culture Expo in Taiwan)
Deep Dive into Local Characteristics & Savor Authentic Local Cuisine
The exhibition also brings together exhibition booths from Japan’s official tourism organizations, including the Japan Tourism Agency, Nagano Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Kochi Prefecture, and Shirakawa City in Gunma Prefecture, highlighting regional tourism features and introducing local culture, traditional cuisine, and popular souvenirs. Visitors can sample a variety of authentic Japanese foods, including the Hohofuan Tea Room, the century-old “Toriihei Matcha,” the nearly 120-year-old GREEN TEA RESTAURANT 1899 OCHANOMIZU, as well as popular Japanese eateries such as “Nihonbashi Gyoza & Ramen,” “Zenkan Japanese Fried Chicken,” and “Inaniwa Udon by Inaniwa Yosuke.”
Popular Kyoto souvenir brands beloved by Taiwanese travelers are also part of this exhibition lineup. (Photo / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Zhang Yingying)
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