ExBo Meeting March 2026
ExBo Meeting November 2025
Delegate Pre-Programme: Aso-Kuju National Park – The Land of Fire
As your programme one day earlier than the regular Pre-Programme, you will depart after lunch and be brought back to the Hotel Okura in Fukuoka by coach. But will still get to experience the following amazing places: ・Aso Shrine: One of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines, known for its grand “Two-Story Gate” and its […]
Welcome Dinner
A wonderful dinner in the Multipurpose Hall of the FICC (Convention Venue).
Japanese Drum Performance
A powerful Japanese drum performance by Fukuoka University Kobuzaru to kick off the Welcome Dinner.
10-Minute Break
A little respite before we introduce our first keynote speaker.
Post B: Kyoto – Where Ancient History Captivates the World
Conclude your journey with a high-speed transit to Japan’s cultural heart, where we will visit two of the nation’s most iconic architectural treasures before our final farewell. ・Shinkansen Travel: Enjoy the world-renowned speed and comfort of the Bullet Train as we transition from the history of Hiroshima to the cultural heart of Kyoto. ・Kinkaku-ji (The […]
Post A: Kyoto – Where Ancient History Captivates the World
Experience the timeless elegance of Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto, as we visit two of its most celebrated spiritual sites before concluding our journey together with a final celebratory gathering. To avoid extreme overcrowding you’ll visit the places below at different times. ・Shinkansen Travel: Enjoy the world-renowned speed and comfort of the Bullet Train as we […]
Group 2 – Kyoto: Where Ancient History Captivates the World
08:43-10:19 Travel from Hiroshima to Kyoto Station via Shinkansen; all hotels are within walking distance from the station 10:40-11:15 Depart Kyoto Station for Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) by chartered coach 11:15-12:15 Explore Kinkaku-ji Temple 12:15-12:35 Travel to the lunch venue 12:35-13:35 Lunch 13:35-14:05 Travel to Sanjusangendo Temple 14:05-15:05 Explore Sanjusangendo Temple 15:05-15:20 Transfer to the […]
Nagasaki: The Legacy Project
To ensure a seamless experience and avoid overcrowding at our historic venues, participants will visit the following highlights of Nagasaki at different times. ・Hypocenter & Peace Park: Stand at the exact epicenter of the 1945 atomic blast and walk through a tranquil memorial park dedicated to global peace and reflection. ・Legacy Project Ceremony: Join a […]
Overview: Okawa & Yanagawa: Timeless Crafts & Samurai Heritage
Immerse yourself in the traditional artistry and samurai legacy of the Ariake Sea region with a journey through the woodworking capital of Okawa and the historic canal city of Yanagawa. Though the order will be different, everyone will get to see the following. ・Shobun Vinegar Brewery: Step inside a prestigious brewery with over 300 years […]
Nagasaki: Japan’s First Cosmopolitan City
After the closing ceremony at the FICC everyone will leave together from the FICC to Nagasaki where you will get your first impression of this extraordinary city. ・Peace Hall & Atomic Bomb Museum: Experience a deeply moving introduction to Nagasaki’s history. Through powerful exhibits and personal testimonies, gain a profound understanding of the city’s mission […]
Overview: Nagasaki: The Legacy Project
To ensure a seamless experience and avoid overcrowding at our historic venues, participants will be divided into three separate groups to explore the following highlights of Nagasaki. ・Hypocenter & Peace Park: Stand at the exact epicenter of the 1945 atomic blast and walk through a tranquil memorial park dedicated to global peace and reflection. ・Legacy […]
Overview: Saga – The Global Legacy of Arita Porcelain
Explore the birthplace of Japanese porcelain and the scenic coastal beauty of Saga Prefecture with a staggered itinerary designed to provide an intimate look at these historic sites across three travel groups. ・Kyushu Ceramic Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive journey through the history and exquisite artistry of porcelain from across the Kyushu region. ・Izumiyama […]
Hiroshima: A Place of Reflection and Resilience
Journey from the shores of Kyushu to the historic mainland, where you will encounter the ethereal beauty of a “floating” shrine and reflect on the enduring resilience of Hiroshima. ・Shinkansen & Ferry Crossing: Experience the precision of the Bullet Train followed by a scenic ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea to reach the sacred […]
Overview: Kagoshima – Living Traditions and the Earth’s Raw Power
On the final day, you’ll have the chance to stand on one of the world’s most active volcanoes. To make the most of our time on the island, the coaches will visit the below locations at different times: ・Sakurajima Ferry: A short boat ride across the bay of Kagoshima City that offers stunning, unobstructed views […]
What do we really mean by sustainable tourism, and why does sustainable tourism matter?
Despite its widespread use, the concept of sustainable tourism remains ambiguously defined, unevenly operationalised and is increasingly marked by a sense of fatigue generated through overuse. This presentation begins by asking two foundational questions: what do we really mean by sustainable tourism, and why does sustainable tourism matter? Rather than treating sustainability as a technical […]
Cultivating the Good Life: How a Character Strengths Approach Nurtures Sustainable Tourism
Tourist guides embrace multiple roles in a given day. Their contributions to developing tourism include a mediating role (brokering access, encounters, understanding and empathy), as interpreters, storytellers, timekeepers and psychologists. Although Tourist Guides’ contributions to sustainability are documented in academic literature, it is timely to revisit these a decade later. Namely, there are eight sustainability […]
Arrival in Fukuoka & Way to the Hotel
Welcome to Fukuoka! We are delighted to have you here. To help you get settled, we will have Welcome Desks available at the following locations from February 4th to 8th: Fukuoka Airport – International Terminal Fukuoka Airport – Domestic Terminal JR Hakata Station – For those arriving by Shinkansen Please note that while we do […]
Overview: Takachiho – Birthplace of Japanese Myth
This day’s journey explores the “Cradle of Japanese Mythology.” You will travel through breathtaking volcanic landscapes to reach the sites where Japan’s oldest legends are said to have taken place. To ensure everyone has a relaxed and intimate experience at these sacred sites, the group will divide after lunch: To provide a smooth experience at […]
Overview: Aso-Kuju National Park – The Land of Fire
Journey through the heart of Kyushu’s volcanic landscapes around Mt Aso, one of the biggest calderas in the world. To provide a comfortable and uncrowded experience, the coaches will visit the spots at different times but everyone will get to experience the following: ・Aso Shrine: One of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines, known for […]
Overview: Beppu – The Land of Hot Springs
Visit Beppu, Japan’s premium hot spring resort. With steam rising from the earth and the smell of sulfur in the air it really feels like a different world. To ensure a seamless experience at these popular sites, the coaches will visit the locations below in turn: ・Beppu Bamboo Craft Traditional Industry Hall: A museum showcasing […]
Overview: Yamaga & Kumomoto – From Ancient Streets to Samurai Stories
You’ll journey into the heart of Kumamoto and step back into the Edo period to experience the refined arts and military might of old Japan. To provide a smooth experience at these heritage sites, the coaches will visit the sites below at different times but everyone will get to enjoy: ・Yachiyo-za Theater: A grand, wooden […]
Overview: Izumi & Kagoshima – Coastal Beauty and Volcanic Majesty
We’ll travel south and learn about nature preservation before stepping back into the refined world of the samurai. To ensure everyone has a front-row view, the places below will be visited at different times. ・Izumi Crane Observation Center: A world-renowned wildlife site where over 10,000 majestic cranes migrate from Siberia each winter, filling the skies […]
Global Networking Forum- Hosted By WFTGA Team Asia
Join guiding and tourism professionals from around the world in a welcoming, inclusive space hosted by WFTGA Team Asia. The Global Networking Forum brings together tourist guides, heritage and nature guides, museum and church guides, tour managers, cruise managers, and other visitor-facing professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and support one another across borders. Open to […]
Activate Sustainable Guided Tours
This workshop explores more sustainable guiding skills by introducing philosophical practice into tourist guiding. It combines lecture and practice, drawing on the speaker’s research and field experience, and incorporates classroom-based exercises designed for practical application. This is not a theoretical or abstract justification of sustainability; rather, it is an experimental attempt to integrate philosophical practice […]
The “Caring Heart” Sadako Left Us and Our Mission for Peace
Sadako was two years old when she was exposed to the atomic bomb in Hiroshima, and ten years later, at age twelve, she developed leukemia. While she was hospitalized, our father told her that if she folded a thousand paper cranes, her wish would be granted, and she continued folding them until her final moments. […]
Stories in the City
Using Singapore as a live case study, this workshop shows participants how to turn everyday city spaces into immersive, sustainable tour experiences. Through hands-on activities and narrative design tools, you’ll learn to reframe markets, neighbourhoods, food rituals, street art, and micro-communities as standout storytelling moments. Discover how tiny details can showcase community pride, support climate […]
Commercial Hub: Hakata Station
Discover the vibrant Hakata Station area, a key hub for transport and local commerce. Choose to explore solo or receive curated recommendations from a local guide as well as learn valuable insights into the area’s history.
Gala Dinner
It’s time to dress up and celebrate! We cordially invite you to an unforgettable Gala Dinner at the prestigious Hotel Okura Fukuoka. Set in a luxurious 5-star atmosphere, the evening will feature an exquisite full-course meal, live music, and delightful company. The night’s highlight will be the official announcement of the WFTGA Convention 2028 host […]
Closing Ceremony
While it’s bittersweet to see our time together come to an end, we eagerly anticipate celebrating the successful conclusion of the WFTGA Convention 2026 with the Closing Ceremony in the Main Hall of the FICC. Though we’ll be sad to say goodbye to many of you, we’re thrilled that some will extend their journey through […]
Eco Town Center, Next-Gen Energy Park & Kokura Castle
Meeting Place: Lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 08:15 AM Kitakyushu is a city in the north of Fukuoka Prefecture that was integral to Japan’s modernization and is now a hub for sustainable research and manufacturing. This tour takes you to the cutting edge of green technology: the Eco Town Center, which coordinates a pioneering […]
TOTO Museum & Kokura Castle
Meeting Place: Lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 08:30 AM Ask anyone who’s been to Japan and they’ll tell you that using the bathroom here is an almost spa-like experience. The TOTO Museum in northern Fukuoka Prefecture, operated by the country’s biggest sanitary manufacturer, is dubbed the “Toilet Museum” and delves into the cultural and […]
Mojiko & Kokura Castle
Meeting Place: Lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 07:45 AM Mojiko, a historic port town in northern Fukuoka Prefecture, flourished as one of Japan’s leading international trading ports after its opening in 1889, strategically connecting Kyushu to the Asian continent. This tour examines how the historical port architecture has been preserved and successfully repurposed as […]
Networking Dinner
Each Study Tour concludes at our spectacular venue for the Networking Dinner: The Fukuoka City Museum. In partnership with the City of Fukuoka, the Host Committee is honored to have secured this unique setting for our evening. You’ll enjoy a buffet dinner with the rare opportunity to explore the museum’s exhibits after-hours, with local guides […]
Fukuoka Castle Ruins and Kimono
Explore the historic Fukuoka Castle Ruins, once the largest fortress in Kyushu, followed by an introduction to the traditional Japanese garment, the kimono, still worn and celebrated today. Perfect for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the local history of Fukuoka City. (This course is held during the morning; your specific timeslot will be […]
Ohori Park and Fukuoka Art Museum
Ohori Park, a beautiful green oasis beloved by locals, offers a peaceful respite from busy city life. Located within the park is the Fukuoka Art Museum, where you will learn about ancient Japanese painting techniques and treasured Buddha statues. Highly recommended for art enthusiats and those who want to enjoy a bit of nature within […]
Downtown Tenjin & Kawabata Shopping Arcade
Wander through the covered Kawabata Shopping Arcade, the historical merchant heart of the city. Discover the contemporary heart of Fukuoka, navigating the bustling commercial center of Tenjin known for its department stores, fashion, and vibrant city life. A great choice for anyone interested in modern Japanese fashion, urban planning, and retail culture. (This course is […]
Kawabata Shopping Arcade and Canal City
Explore Fukuoka’s vibrant heart on a walking tour through the traditional Kawabata Shopping Arcade, the island within the city called Nakasu, and the modern “city within a city” architecture of Canal City Hakata. Ideal for understanding the local merchant history and visualizing the dramatic changes Fukuoka has undergone over time. (This course is held during […]
Origami Class
Discover how a single square of paper can be transformed into a delicate work of art through the timeless Japanese craft of origami. Join us to master the folds that bring paper to life and find a meditative moment of creativity in every crease.
Furoshiki Wrapping Cloth Class
Get to know the traditional Japanese technique of furoshiki, learning how to reuse and stylishly wrap various items (gifts, bottles, or lunches) using versatile fabric cloths. Perfect for environmentally conscious participants interested in sustainable, reusable Japanese traditions.
Lunch
As on previous days, all the participants can enjoy a delicious standing buffet lunch on the 2nd floor of the FICC. This will be available after that days City Tours.
Using a Phone Camera to Create Lasting Memories
Most people wander the streets with a phone in their pockets. What they may not realize is that in the last 15 years phone camera quality is better than full sized digital camera. During this workshop I will share tips and ideas to help you take great photos. At the end of the day our […]
Downtown Fukuoka: Tenjin
Explore Tenjin’s dynamic downtown core with a local guide. You can explore independently or receive personalized recommendations as well as stories about the ever-changing urban landscape of downtown Fukuoka.
Tea Ceremony 101
You’ll need a numbered ticket for the time-slot to join. You can get them on February 9th during the coffee/tea break or during dinner. If some are still available you can also join on the spot! Imported from China in the 12th century, tea quickly formed a connection with the Japanese spiritual world and evolved […]
Fukuoka’s Western Seashore
Meeting Point and time depend on your group which you will be informed about shortly. The western coast of Fukuoka City is largely defined by striking modern urban development, much of it built on reclaimed land along Hakata Bay. This area is home to both the city’s Disaster Prevention Center and the iconic Fukuoka Tower, […]
Sacred World Heritage Site and Founding Tradition
Meeting Point: Lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 08:15 AM Just north of Fukuoka City lies the town of Munakata. It is home to one of the most significant shrines in Shinto, Japan’s native religion, and also called “Port of the Gods”. You’ll explore the main shrine, Munakata Taisha Shrine, a sacred site, which illustrates […]
Toyota Lexus Factory & Kokura Castle
Meeting Place: Lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 07:45 AM The north of Fukuoka Prefecture played a vital role in the modernization of Japan, and remains home to some of the region’s largest factories. At the Toyota Lexus Factory, you will observe lean manufacturing principles and the adoption of energy-efficient and sustainable production lines in […]
Kimono Try-On
Visit a kimono rental shop to choose and try on your favorite Kimono, the elegant traditional Japanese garment. Once dressed, we’ll stroll around the picturesque Ohori Park. Wearing the Kimono in this beautiful setting creates unparalleled photo opportunities, guaranteeing stunning pictures for your travel album. The shop also features a selection of Kimonos available for […]
Tea Ceremony 101
You’ll need a numbered ticket for the time-slot to join. You can get them on February 9th during the coffee/tea break or during dinner. If some are still available you can also join on the spot! Imported from China in the 12th century, tea quickly formed a connection with the Japanese spiritual world and evolved […]