site.btaKazanlak Hosts Forum on Role of Gastronomy in Modern Tourism

The role of gastronomy in tourism was the focus of an international symposium held in Kazanlak on Saturday. The event, titled "Food, Heritage and Cultural Diplomacy: The Role of Gastronomy in Modern Tourism", brought together leading Bulgarian and Japanese scholars, the local administration said.

Participants explored how food can serve not only as a sensory experience but also as a tool of diplomacy, a bridge between cultures, and a key element in today's tourism industry. Among the keynote speakers were Prof. Hiro Takahashi, a prominent Japanese academic and lecturer at Sofia University, and Assoc. Prof. Maria Yotova from Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto. Their presentations looked at the role of food in cultural exchange and economic development.

Representatives of the Japanese companies Kikkoman and Choya talked about current trends in global gastronomy. Bulgarian rose producers showcased their products at the event.

 Assoc. Prof. Akseniya Tileva, Deputy Mayor of Kazanlak Municipality, welcomed the participants and guests on behalf of Mayor Galina Stoyanova.

The organizers said the international forum reaffirmed that intercultural dialogue builds bridges of cooperation and global friendship.

The symposium was part of the official programme of Kazanlak's Festival of the Rose, whose main events began Friday with the crowning of the Rose Queen.