Research, Development and Evaluation Commission

Following the event in Tokyo, the delegation from Taipei City Government arrived in Osaka on July 7 to hold a press conference to promote the upcoming 2010 Taipei International Flora Exposition to the residents of eastern Japan.

The press event attracted over 150 representatives from airline operators, tourism industry, local media, and members of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH).

The overseas promotion campaign for the Flora Expo – organized by the Department of Information and Tourism (TPEDOIT) – targets potential tourists from neighboring countries such as Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The event in Osaka is made possible with the support of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Osaka, the Tourism Bureau, EVA Air, China Airlines, and Japan Airlines.

During his address, TPEDOIT Commissioner Tuo Chung-hwa remarked that there are a number of similarities between Taipei and Osaka, such as around-the-clock bookstores and Ferris wheels offering a great view of the surrounding landscape. Like Osaka, which is often called “the kitchen of Japan,” Taipei is the “paradise of Chinese cuisine” – as well as delicious dishes from Taiwan and Japan. In addition, Taipei City also offers a wide range of attractions, including soothing hot springs in Beitou District, relaxing massages, fashionable and affordable portrait photography service, and more.

With the opening of the Taipei International Flora Expo coinciding with the peak season for overseas trips for Japanese high schools, the commissioner gave out 200 Flora Expo tickets to two high schools in the Osaka area. He invited local high school students to visit Taipei and witness the beauty of the Flora Expo.