Pune: Experienced tour leader Amit Kulkarni has been selected as the Indian representative for VJTM Japan 2026, an international tourism study programme featuring delegates from 22 countries.Invited by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Kulkarni participated in the initiative aimed at exploring Japan’s lesser-known destinations, cultural heritage and emerging tourism opportunities, said a statement issued by the organisers.The programme, which was recently conducted, brought together tourism professionals from across the globe, providing a platform to interact with Japanese tourism organisations, local tourism boards, hotels and experiential travel service providers. Founder of Pune-based Get Set Go Holidays, Kulkarni’s participation offered an opportunity to explore new travel experiences that could be introduced to Indian tourists.As part of the study tour, Kulkarni said in the statement, “Participants visited several destinations and attractions, including Nikko, the Oya History Museum, a bamboo farm, a bamboo handicraft workshop and a traditional sake production centre. The visits offered insights into Japan’s rural tourism, local industries, culinary traditions, historical heritage and community-based tourism initiatives.”Kulkarni said the experience would help him design innovative travel itineraries highlighting destinations beyond Japan’s conventional tourist circuits.“Japan is much more than Tokyo, Mount Fuji and bullet trains. Its rich cultural heritage, local traditions, rural landscapes and unique experiences offer tremendous opportunities for Indian travellers. Through this programme, we aim to introduce lesser-explored destinations and authentic Japanese experiences to Indian tourists,” Kulkarni said.He added that interactions with Japanese tourism stakeholders would help develop new travel packages while contributing to stronger tourism exchanges between India and Japan.Director Manisha Nischal and Asmi Kulkarni have been appreciated along with Kulkarni for the organisation’s efforts to promote innovative international travel experiences.
