In a visit that brought together spirituality, culture, and diplomacy, Ono Keiichi, the Japanese ambassador, recently visited two cities in Uttar Pradesh: Ayodhya and Lucknow. His journey was the perfect combination of prayer, discussions on development, and a taste of local heritage.
Japanese Ambassador, Ono Keiichi, Visits Ayodhya And Lucknow
Concurred with @myogiadityanath for 🇯🇵-UP cooperation in investment, technologies, human-resource development and tourism.
Look forward to working with CM Yogi by putting the right eye of the daruma doll as a promise of our collaboration: the left will be put when it comes true🤝 https://t.co/TSNuXeFva6 pic.twitter.com/1jOm0jJ4zW— ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan (@JapanAmbIndia) July 4, 2025
On Saturday, Ambassador Keiichi visited Ayodhya, a city known worldwide for its religious importance. Here, he offered prayers at two famous places: the Hanumangarhi Temple and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. He shared pictures of his visit on his X (formerly Twitter), saying he was touched by the “cultural and spiritual significance” of these holy sites.
Before coming to Ayodhya, Ambassador Keiichi spent time in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. Here, he met with the state’s Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, to discuss ways Japan and Uttar Pradesh can work more closely together.
The topics on the table included investment, technology, tourism, and training skilled workers. To symbolise his commitment, the ambassador posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Concurred with
@myogiadityanath for 🇯🇵-UP cooperation in investment, technologies, human-resource development and tourism. Look forward to working with CM Yogi by putting the right eye of the Daruma doll as a promise of our collaboration: the left will be put when it comes true, and mentioned placing the “right eye” on a Daruma doll (a Japanese symbol used to mark goals).”
Also Read: Chef Vikas Khanna Met ‘What Do You Do For A Living’ Host In NYC; Netizens Call Him The Real Star!
He Also Explored Lucknow’s Rich Culture
Japanese Ambassador Keiichi also visited the Bara Imambara in Lucknow and posted about his visit on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, “Visited the majestic Bara Imambara in Lucknow. Deeply impressed by its architectural brilliance and the intricate craftsmanship that reflects India’s rich cultural heritage.” During his time in Lucknow, the Japanese envoy Ono Keiichi also enjoyed the local flavours and posted his pictures enjoying Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani and other Awadhi dishes.
Adding a meaningful touch to his journey, Ambassador Keiichi also visited the India Para Judo Academy in Lucknow. According to Times of India reports, he met with Asian Para Games medalists like Kapil Parmar and Kokila and Olympian Akram Shah.
This visit by Japan’s ambassador was not only about official meetings and sightseeing. His journey was also about building friendships, understanding traditions, and working together for the future.
Cover Image Courtesy: ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan/X
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: July 05, 2025 7:10 PM