{"id":8251,"date":"2024-10-29T09:45:00","date_gmt":"2024-10-29T00:45:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/inpsjapan.com\/en\/?p=8251"},"modified":"2024-10-29T23:26:39","modified_gmt":"2024-10-29T14:26:39","slug":"astana-kazakhstans-futuristic-capital-welcomes-japanese-tourists-with-new-direct-flights-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/inpsjapan.com\/en\/news\/astana-kazakhstans-futuristic-capital-welcomes-japanese-tourists-with-new-direct-flights-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Astana: Kazakhstan’s Futuristic Capital Welcomes Japanese Tourists with New Direct Flights in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By Katsuhiro Asagiri<\/p>\n\n\n

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winners of the ninth annual contest “Kazakhstan through the Eyes of Foreign Media.”<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

ASTANA\/Tokyo INPS Japan \u2013<\/strong> The capital of Kazakhstan, Astana, is fast becoming a premier tourist destination, celebrated for its avant-garde architecture, cultural diversity, and rich history. The city’s appeal is set to grow even further with the launch of direct flights between Japan and Kazakhstan in spring 2026. Known as the “Dubai of Central Asia,” Astana offers a unique fusion of modern urban planning and deep-rooted traditions. In September, I had the opportunity to explore some of Astana\u2019s most iconic attractions as part of a press tour with seven international journalists, all winners of the ninth annual contest “Kazakhstan through the Eyes of Foreign Media.”<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Vision of the Future by a Japanese Architect<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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Kisho Kurokawa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Astana\u2019s rapid transformation into a modern capital owes much to the visionary design of Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa<\/a>, who created the city\u2019s master plan in the late 1990s. Kurokawa\u2019s futuristic vision, combining sleek, contemporary structures with elements reflecting Kazakhstan’s nomadic past, has shaped the city’s skyline and overall urban layout. His work highlights the interplay between tradition and modernity, making Astana a standout among global capitals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Japanese travelers, this connection to one of their most renowned architects offers an additional point of interest. Walking through the streets of Astana, visitors can witness firsthand how Kurokawa\u2019s modernist approach has been realized in a city that represents Kazakhstan\u2019s aspirations for the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Mosaic of Cultures<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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Kazakhstan celebrates peoples unity day. Cedit Silkway TV<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

One of the most remarkable aspects of Astana is its cultural diversity. Home to more than 130 ethnic groups, the city is a living example of Kazakhstan\u2019s tradition of ethnic harmony. This diversity is also evident in the local culinary scene. During the press tour, we experienced a variety of cuisines at restaurants throughout the city, where the influence of Kazakh, Russian, Caucasian, Korean, Uzbek, and other Central Asian cultures is evident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether sampling the traditional Kazakh dish beshbarmak, made of boiled meat and noodles, or enjoying a range of Eurasian flavors, the food experience in Astana is as diverse as its people. Japanese tourists, in particular, will find the city\u2019s culinary offerings to be a rich reflection of its multicultural identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Futuristic Skyline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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Photo: ‘Nur Alem,’ the world’s largest spherical building, known as ‘the Sphere.’ Credit: EXPO 2017<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Astana\u2019s skyline is defined by bold and futuristic architecture that has earned the city its nickname, the “Dubai of Central Asia.” Among the most iconic structures is the Baiterek Tower, a symbol of Kazakhstan’s independence and future aspirations. I had the opportunity to visit Baiterek with the other journalists on the tour, and the view from the observation deck, 97 meters above ground, was breathtaking. The panoramic vistas of Astana\u2019s skyline showcase the blend of glass skyscrapers and wide, open spaces that define the city.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Golden Man Credit: Astana City Pass<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Another highlight of our visit was Nur Alem, the world\u2019s largest spherical building and a legacy of Expo 2017. This futuristic structure now houses exhibits on renewable energy and sustainable technology, offering an interactive look at the future of energy production. Exploring Nur Alem with my fellow journalists, we were able to engage with exhibits that not only highlighted Kazakhstan\u2019s commitment to sustainability but also showcased its role in global energy innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Journey Through History<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For those interested in Kazakhstan\u2019s history, the National Museum of Kazakhstan provides an in-depth look at the country’s rich cultural and historical evolution. During our press tour, we had the chance to explore the museum\u2019s vast collection, which spans from ancient nomadic artifacts to modern artworks. This visit provided valuable insights into how Kazakhstan\u2019s history informs its current identity as a modern, independent nation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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National Museum of Kazakhstan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Direct Flights to Boost Tourism<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The upcoming launch of direct flights between Japan and Kazakhstan in 2026 marks a significant development in the relationship between the two nations. This new route will make it easier than ever for Japanese tourists to explore Kazakhstan\u2019s vibrant capital, opening up opportunities for increased cultural exchange and tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Astana\u2019s blend of cutting-edge architecture, cultural diversity, and historical depth makes it an attractive destination for international visitors. For Japanese tourists, the city offers the added draw of being shaped by one of Japan\u2019s most iconic architects, Kisho Kiurokawa. My experience exploring the city alongside seven international journalists as part of the press tour highlighted the many ways in which Astana\u2019s unique fusion of tradition and innovation sets it apart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the promise of direct flights on the horizon, Astana is ready to welcome a new wave of visitors eager to experience its dynamic and evolving landscape. Yokoso Kazakhstan-he.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The tourist attractions in Astana introduced in this article can be seen in the first half of the video covering this press tour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

INPS Japan<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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