The Cotswolds Plus Local Visitor Economy Partnership is celebrating a showcase at the 58th Hankyu British Fair in Osaka, Japan. The event drew over 250,000 visitors and spotlighted the best of British culture.
A very popular item was Cotswold Lavender scones, with queues forming throughout the event. The scones, made using lavender grown in the region, became a symbol of the Cotswolds’ authentic charm and culinary appeal.
Rebecca Clay, representing the region, delivered multiple presentations about the Cotswolds with the support of a translator, while local promotional videos played, immersing visitors in the beauty and heritage of the Cotswolds area.
Cotswold Cheese Company shared, “We were blown away by the enthusiasm of Japanese visitors. They loved hearing the story behind our cheeses and tasting the flavours of the Cotswolds. It was a proud moment to represent our region on such a global stage.”
Jane Wright, lace maker from Chalford, said, “It was an honour to share the art of lacemaking with such an appreciative audience. Many visitors were fascinated by the intricacy and tradition behind each piece. I hope it inspired a new appreciation for this endangered craft and the stories woven into every thread.”
Building on this success, the Cotswolds Plus LVEP are hosting a group of Japanese tour operators for a curated educational visit across South Wales, Bristol, Bath, and the Cotswolds. The itinerary includes vineyard & distillery tastings, steam train rides, and visits to iconic locations like Broadway, Batsford Arboretum, Burford and will finish with the Bodleian Library in Oxford.
This initiative, supported by VisitBritain, aims to keep Japanese operators updated on new experiences in the region and foster long-term tourism and trade relationships.
Visit cotswolds.com/trade for more information on travel in the area.
