Japanese visitors embrace Catalan culture during World Expo in Osaka 

Catalan culture surprises Japanese visitors at the opening of the Catalan Week at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan. The pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato) workshops and wine masterclasses were packed: "It's the most luxurious way to eat a tomato in the world," said one participant. 

With a week-long program of activities, including gastronomy, wine, music, and art workshops highlighting Catalan culture, Catalonia seeks to raise its profile at this major international event. The expo brings together nearly 160 countries and has already attracted over five million visitors in just over a month. 

Some visitors at the workshop said they are also aware of the criticism surrounding tourism. "We heard that foreigners are not always welcomed because there is too much tourism, like being splashed with water, for example," said a couple from Osaka. 

Catalan chef Josep Barahona, who has lived in Japan for 25 years, explained step-by-step how to properly enjoy pa amb tomàquet, adding the ingredients in the correct order. "I was so surprised by how good it was," said Tomoko, who planned to visit the Expo for two days. "I had never eaten tomato in such a delicious way. I’m really impressed," agreed Miyako.  

Neither of them had heard of Catalonia before, though they did know about football, the Sagrada Família, Valencia oranges, Spanish wine, and olive oil. 

Sommelier Òscar Salmeron, founder of Romea Wines, led the Catalan wine tasting, presenting three wines: Gramona Imperial 2018, Tayaimgut Sauvignon Blanc 2018, and Octonia 2014, which were well received by the Japanese audience. "All three were very good, but it was the first time I’d tried a wine like the last one. I was really impressed," said visitor Deguchi. 

Additionally, the art workshops inspired by Catalan artist Joan Miró, and live concerts were popular among Japanese visitors. The Japanese public has embraced the Expo, which has already drawn five million visitors in just over a month and is on track to surpass 28 million by its conclusion in October.