- Japanese regions are showcasing tourism offerings at a Hong Kong travel expo ahead of Lunar New Year.
- Group tour bookings to Japan remain low due to strained Japan-China relations, but individual travel is still popular.
- Flights to Kumamoto and Tokushima are currently suspended due to past social media rumors, but efforts are underway to boost tourism and restore air links.

A: Hey! Did you hear about the travel expo in Hong Kong?

B: No way! What's going on?

A: Japanese cities are showing off their cool spots there! It started yesterday.

B: Really? Like which places?

A: Kumamoto, Tokushima... they're giving out brochures and souvenirs! Kumamon is everywhere, of course!

B: Haha, of course! Kumamon is super popular!

A: Yeah! Tokushima has these big panels for photos too – the Iya Kazurabashi bridge and the Awa Odori dance.

B: Sounds fun! I wonder why I haven’t heard more about trips.

A: Well, group tours aren't doing so great because of some problems between Japan and China.

B: Oh, that’s a bummer.

A: But individual trips are still really popular! That’s good news.

B: That's good! But I heard flights to some places were cancelled?

A: You’re right. Flights to Kumamoto and Tokushima are gone for now. It's because of those crazy rumors on social media last year!

B: Seriously? What rumors?

A: Some people said there would be a big disaster in Japan. Silly, right?

A: Kumamoto is really focusing on promoting Kumamon and their food. They think people still want to visit.

B: Fingers crossed they get those flights back soon!

A: Tokushima wants everyone to know how amazing their western area is. Culture, nature, food… they're going all in!