Pakistan seeks Buddhist tourism boost from Japan

KARACHI: Pakistan is actively promoting its rich Buddhist heritage to Japanese religious leaders, aiming to boost tourism and cultural ties. During a visit to Expo 2025 Osaka, Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan met with the 79th Head Priest of Shogoin Monzeki, who also heads the Kyoto Buddhist Association.

The meeting centred on fostering religious tourism and interfaith understanding. Khan highlighted Pakistan’s Gandhara civilisation sites as prime destinations for Buddhist pilgrimages and cultural exchange.

The head priest expressed strong interest and pledged to lead a delegation to Pakistan. He also committed to encouraging other Buddhist centres in Japan to organise pilgrimage and cultural visits to Pakistan’s Gandhara sites.