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Traditional charm and a modern approach to business are just two of the many reasons Japan is the ideal location for any global event. The country is home to many destinations suited for gatherings — each with its own unique character and each ready to be discovered.
But with so much to explore, where should one begin? Meet Japan—a program offered by the Japan Convention Bureau (JCB) in cooperation with Japan’s International Convention Cities — invites meeting planners and association executives to come to Japan as guests so that they can select the best cities and venues for their next event.
Here, get to know six top destinations involved in the program.
Chiba
Set in the greater Tokyo region, Chiba is surrounded by nature and a temperate climate, making it an ideal destination all year long. Boasting the Makuhari Messe convention center, as well as numerous universities and research institutes, the region cultivates top talent in medicine, robotics and space engineering.
Nagoya
Japan’s fourth-largest city is at the heart of the country’s manufacturing industry. Major automotive, aerospace, ceramics, chemical, medical and materials manufacturers are based here. Cultural offsite activities also abound; planners can send attendees to the unique Toyota Museum or to see a show at the Noh Theater.
Gifu
Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the distinctive Nagaragawa Convention Center (part of the World Event and Convention Complex Gifu) is a modern landmark in its own right. Provide an authentic Japanese experience to attendees with a Ryurei-style tea ceremony at the Kashoken teahouse or introduce guests to calligraphy writing and flower arrangement at the Gokuraku-ji Temple.
Kita-Kyushu (North Kyushu)
A leader in environmental initiatives, this city is recognized globally for its commitment to sustainable solutions. Kita-Kyushu’s systematic approach to sustainable urban development has earned the honor of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s First Model City for Green Growth in Asia. Attendees can visit Kitakyushu Science and Research Park and find inspiration to take environmental initiatives home with them.
Kumamoto
Culture and nature are the stars in Kumamoto, but it’s also become a metropolis for medicine, education and economic development. Here, attendees get the best of both worlds: authentic tradition and modern business. Choose from several meeting venues in a concentrated area, and then give guests a chance to go on a walking tour to see historic sites like the Kumamoto-jo Castle (Kumamoto-Jo Hall, a large complex of meeting spaces, will open nearby in December 2019) and Suizenji Jojuen Garden.
Okinawa
The only subtropical marine climate in all of Japan, Okinawa is another destination for year-round networking. World-class venues like the Okinawa Convention Center and Bankoku Shinryokan Okinawa Resort deliver no shortage of locations to host attendees. Post-meeting, invite attendees to a cave party at the Valley of Gangala, where you can host an unforgettable dinner party in a natural limestone cave.
Ready to discover one of these cities? The Japan National Tourism Organization can help.
