(ANS – Tokyo – October 2, 2026) – On the evening of Thursday, October 1, Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB, arrived in Japan. Having landed at Haneda Airport shortly after 7 p.m., accompanied by his Secretary, Fr. Thathireddy Vijaya Bhaskar, the Successor of Don Bosco began his eight-day Extraordinary Visitation to Japan.

Fr. Attard’s presence in the country is significant, as this is the first visit by a Rector Major to Japan in eight years, since the visit of the previous Rector Major in 2018.

At the airport, Fr. Attard was warmly welcomed by the Provincial of Japan, Fr. Francis Hamasaki Atsushi, together with approximately 45 members of the Salesian Family and numerous young people. The atmosphere was filled with joy and enthusiasm. After receiving a bouquet of flowers from the young people, the Rector Major greeted everyone with a warm smile.

It is a particular joy for the Salesian Family in Japan to welcome the Rector Major during the centenary year of the Salesian presence in the country.

During his visit, Fr. Attard will visit various Salesian institutions, including Osaka Seiko Gakuin in Osaka, Hyuga Gakuin in Miyazaki, the Salesian Seminary in Chofu, Tokyo, and Tokyo Salesio Gakuen, a home for boys in Kodaira.

At Salesio Gakuin Junior and Senior High School in Yokohama, he will also participate in the Mass marking the conclusion of the celebrations for the centenary of the Salesian presence in Japan.

At each stop, the Rector Major will meet with his Salesian confreres, members of the Salesian Family, and, above all, young people and students. Inspired by the heart of Don Bosco—Father, Teacher, and Friend of Young People—these meetings will offer valuable opportunities for fraternity, dialogue, and sharing.