Sustainable Tourism for the Future
The WFTGA Convention 2026 in Fukuoka invites you to an extraordinary week that blends professional excellence with cultural immersion, global connection, and personal inspiration. Like a well-curated guided tour, this programme is crafted with care – offering rhythm, depth, and surprise at every turn. From a grand opening ceremony to thought-provoking workshops, hands-on training, and exclusive study tours, each day builds upon the next, guiding you on a journey of discovery through the themes of sustainability, innovation, and heritage.
Whether you are a seasoned professional, an emerging tourist guide, or an accompanying guest, you will find moments that challenge, uplift, and connect you – with ideas, with people, and with places. This is more than a conference: it’s a living experience designed by guides, for guides – with the quality, detail, and spirit that defines our profession.
Head of Programme
Day 1 (9th February) – An Unforgettable Beginning
Location: Fukuoka International Congress Center (FICC)
The Programme Features:
🌟 An Opening Ceremony showcasing our global guiding community
- At 9am sharp the Host Committee will start with an opening act that you don’t want to miss!
- We won’t devulge more information so as not to ruin the surprise but let’s just say that you’ll get to see a part of Japanese culture that not many do
- Welcoming words from WFTGA, K-iTG and the mayor of Fukuoka among other representatives of the tourism industry
- Insights into Japanese customs and culture
- A motivating Keynote Speech by our hand-picked speaker
- And the highly anticipated Bidding Country Presentations, revealing future destinations
Food & Drinks:
- A delicious standing buffet lunch offering both Japanese and Western delicacies
- A convenient tea and coffee break perfect to chat and relax
- The Welcome Dinner, a great opportunity to network while enjoying the local cuisine!
*donated by our wonderful sponsors
Day 2 (10th February) – Engage, Learn, and Explore!
Location: Fukuoka International Congress Center (FICC)
The Programme features:
- A morning gathering to exercise both your body and mind
In the morning
- First round of workshops from WFTGA and the Host Committee focused on Japanese culture, sustainability and practical guiding tips
- The panel discussion about sustainability and the Code of Guiding Practices
In the afternoon
- Another keynote speech
- 2 more rounds of workshops giving a global perspective and the future of the guiding profession
- Training division meeting
🍵 All throughout the day a master of the craft will offer 3 tea ceremonny session that are free to join!
🔗Click here for a detailed schedule of Day 2
Exclusive Activities for Accommpanying Persons
We will offer 4 cultural activities exclusive to accompanying persons (non-guides).
We don’t want anyone to get bored after all!
🔗Click here to find out more about the individual activities
Food & Drinks:
- A delicious standing buffet lunch offering both Japanese and Western delicacies
- A convenient tea and coffee break perfect to chat and relax
- Dinner on Day 2 is not included. This is your chance to venture out and explore the city on your own!
*donated by our wonderful sponsors
Day 3 (11th February) – Exclusive Study Tours: Sustainability & Local History
Bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application under the theme of sustainability by joining one of the WFTGA Convention’s Study Tours!
You’ll explore sites crucial to Fukuoka’s economy, history, and culture, highlighting their tangible role in shaping a sustainable future.
Choose one of seven diverse courses designed to broaden your perspective:
(All courses include a visit to Hakata Old Town and the Fukuoka City Museum)
Chose 1 of 7 courses that cover a wide variety of topics
(All courses will visit Hakata Oldtown and Fukuoka City Museum)
A. Shikaumi Shrine & Seawater Desalination Center: Discover the historical connection between ancient sea worship and responsible marine resource management. Learn how advanced technology is securing fresh water supplies for the region’s rapidly growing population.
B. Fukuoka Disaster Prevention Center & Momochi Area: Experience simulated natural disasters and examine the city’s strategies for enhancing community resilience and safety. See how this futuristic reclaimed land area balances urban development with coastal environmental concerns.
C. Munakata Shrine (World Heritage Site): Explore this sacred site, which illustrates a maritime tradition of faith and the preservation of the sacred islands and sea.
D. Toyota Factory & Kokura Castle: Observe lean manufacturing principles and the adoption of energy-efficient and sustainable production lines in modern industry.
E. Eco Town in Kitakyushu & Kokura Castle: Visit a pioneering industrial complex focused on recycling, research, and zero-emission production systems. Understand the historical development of Kitakyushu and the role of its heritage in modern urban planning.
F: TOTO Museum & Kokura Castle: Trace the evolution of high-efficiency, water-saving technologies that have set global standards for sustainable plumbing. Understand the historical development of Kitakyushu and the role of its heritage in modern urban planning.
G: Mojiko, Kokura Castle: Examine how historical port architecture has been preserved and repurposed as a successful sustainable tourism hub. Understand the historical development of Kitakyushu and the role of its heritage in modern urban planning.
Food & Drinks:
- Lunch will be provided as is convenient for each tour
- Networking Dinner
Day 4 (12th February) – Tailored Experiences in Fukuoka
On this day, the program branches out to offer distinct experiences for our ExBO/Delegates and other Participants & Accompanying Persons.
For ExBO/Delegates:
Continue your vital work in the Main Hall of the Fukuoka International Convention Center with the General Assembly
For Participants and Accompanying Persons:
Experience the rich culture and vibrant traditions of Fukuoka and Japan by joining our specially curated City Tours on Day 4. These tours will take you to the very heart of this dynamic city through its art, history, and natural beauty. Each City Tour will be conducted twice (morning and afternoon), offering you the chance to join 2 distinct tours.
The Main City Tour features:
- Fukuoka Castle Ruins & Sannomaru Square:
Explore the historical site of the former castle, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Fukuoka’s past, complemented by the information center Sannomaru Square. - Nakasukawabata & Tenjin:
Experience the contrast between the traditional shopping arcade of Nakasukawabata and the bustling, modern downtown commercial district of Tenjin. - Nakasukawabata, Nakasu & Canal City:
Discover the traditional entertainment and shopping areas of Nakasukawabata and Nakasu, followed by a visit to the dynamic, multi-level retail and entertainment complex, Canal City Hakata. - Ohori Park & Fukuoka City Art Museum:
Spend time in Fukuoka City’s biggest green oasis before exploring the diverse collections housed in the neighboring Fukuoka City Art Museum.
Refreshments:
- 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 between the morning’s first round of tours and the afternoon’s second round.
Gala-Dinner
- It’s time to dress up and celebrate! Join us for an unforgettable Gala Dinner at the prestigious Hotel Okura, a luxurious 5-star venue. Prepare for an evening of exquisite dining, delightful company, and the Announcement of Where the WFTG Convention 2028 Will Be Held!
Day 5 (13th February) – Celebrating Everlasting Memories
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 Japan by joining us for the incredible Post-Programme to explore the historic and culturally rich cities of Nagasaki, Saga, Hiroshima, and Kyoto!
Food & Drinks:
- Lunch is not included on this day
Other Services:
- Registration Desk: Located on the 1st floor, the Registration Desk will be open throughout the Convention Week where participants can pick up their name badges, convention bag, and other materials upon arrival.
- Hospitality Desk (Help Desk): Situated near the Registration Desk, the Hospitality Desk will be open throughout the Convention Week. Our Host Committee staff will be on hand to assist with your inquiries.
- WFTGA Desk: Open during main networking times a hub to make personal contact with the WFTGA Administrator, Area Representatives and Trainers.
- Shuttle Bus Service: A Shuttle Bus Service will operate in the mornings and evenings during the Convention Week. The bus will run between Hotel Okura and the FICC (car drop-off point).
- Origami Desk: Visit the Origami Desk on the 2nd floor, where our staff will teach you how to fold paper cranes. These cranes will be donated to the Nagasaki Peace Park on February 14th as part of our Legacy Project.
Accompanying Persons
Bring Your Loved Ones
The WFTGA Convention 2026 is not only a professional highlight – it’s also an opportunity to share an unforgettable experience with your loved ones. Partners, friends, and family members (aged 13 and above) are warmly invited to join the Convention as Accompanying Persons. While workshops are reserved for professional tourist guides, accompanying guests will enjoy a rich cultural parallel programme filled with interactive city tours, artistic encounters, and unique experiences that celebrate the spirit of Japan.
Children aged 13 and over are welcome to join the accompanying programme. For younger children, individual arrangements must be made. While on-site childcare is not provided, the organising team is happy to support families as best as possible in finding suitable local solutions.
For questions or assistance regarding family travel or accompanying arrangements, please contact:
Let this be a journey you share – professionally enriching, culturally inspiring, and personally memorable.