'Direct flights from Japan to Cappadocia on cards'

Direct flights from Japan to Turkey's tourist hub Cappadocia, which is famous for its fairy chimneys, are on the cards, a Turkish lawmaker said Friday.

Mustafa Açıkgöz, a lawmaker of the ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party from the central Nevşehir province, told Anadolu Agency: "We will hopefully provide direct flights from Japan soon. Our Japanese guests will come to Cappadocia much more comfortably."

He noted that they are also working on direct flights to Cappadocia in Nevşehir from Southeast Asian countries.

"Works are underway for direct flights from China," he said.

Cappadocia is famous for it unique fairy chimney volcanic cones, valleys, underground cities and cave hotels. Tourists can enjoy a bird's eye view of the rock formations with hot air balloon rides.

The region where persecuted Christians from the Roman period sought refuge is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Acikgoz recalled the Turkish parliament had ratified a bill on Thursday that aims to protect Cappadocia.

With the bill approved, Cappadocia Field Authority will be established, and it will be entitled to protect the historical, cultural and natural pattern of the region.

The authority will serve a total of 7 million tourists in 2023, he said.

It will be allowed to demolish or restore buildings and sell or rent government property in Cappadocia.