Online Roundtables
During the WFTGA International Convention in Japan, all participants are invited to take part in a series of moderated Global Round Tables, which will be held both on-site and online to ensure inclusive participation from our worldwide guiding community. Ten key themes—identified throughout the past year during the Global Networking Forums—will form the basis of […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
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 […]
Cooking Class
Dive into Japanese cuisine by learning to make “Temaki Zushi” (hand-wrapped sushi rolls). This class offers an interactive and relaxed approach to sushi making, teaching you how to assemble beautiful, personalized rolls—a healthy and simple dish perfect for replicating as a home party menu. The class is fully accommodating to various dietary needs, including vegetarian […]
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 […]
Tea & Coffee Break
A convenient tea and coffee break perfect to chat and relax
Training Division Meeting 2026 (Fukuoka Convention)
This is the formal biennial (every 2 years) business meeting of the WFTGA Training Division. It is open to all fully paid-up, qualified WFTGA Trainers. WFTGA is at a crucial time of strategic change. This meeting will look back at the achievements over the last 2 years, will highlight challenges and, in the second part, […]
The Heart of Japanese Cuisine:
Katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) is the indispensable cornerstone that supports the entirety of Japanese food culture. Located at the southern tip of Kyushu, Makurazaki City in Kagoshima Prefecture holds the title of Japan’s top katsuobushi producer. In this workshop, you will learn the history, intricate production methods, and exceptional nutritional value of katsuobushi from a […]
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 […]
Leave No Trace
According to the World Tourism Organisation, “Sustainable tourism development meets the needs of present tourists and host regions while protecting and enhancing opportunities for the future. It is envisaged as leading to management of all resources in such a way that economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological […]
Mitsuko – A Life Less Ordinary
Mitsuko Coudenhove-Kalergi (born Aoyama in Tokyo, 1874; died in Mödling, Austria, 1941) was one of the first Japanese women to live in Europe. At 17, she married Count Heinrich Coudenhove, the Austro-Hungarian ambassador to Japan. The Coudenhove family had roots in Belgium, France, Germany, Norway, Russia, Greece and Austria. In the 1890s, Mitsuko moved with […]
The Beauty of Diversity and the Challenges of Intercultural Communication
In this workshop we’ll speak about the different ways and dimensions of communication that influence our perception of each other and create understanding or lead to misunderstanding. We’ll take advantage of the presence of participants from many different countries and explore similarities and differences that should be taken into account when dealing with diverse groups […]
Munich Case Study
This workshop explores the important collaboration between public tourism organizations and tourist guide associations in the qualification of tourist guides and the effective placement of tourist guide assignments. Using the example of the collaboration between Munich Tourism, the public tourism organization of the City of Munich, and the Munich Tourist Guide Association, participants will learn […]
The Spirit of Zen and the Path to World Peace in a Cup of Tea
Imported from China in the 12th century, tea quickly formed a connection with the Japanese spiritual world and evolved into the refined discipline we know as sadō (lit. “the way of tea”). This cultural practice, which has profoundly influenced modern Japanese culture and our deep-rooted sense of hospitality, has been preserved for centuries based on […]
250 Years Underground – The Secret Catholic Faith of Nagasaki
Christianity was introduced to Japan by St. Francis Xavier in 1549, inspiring many to become serious Catholic believers. As an international trading port developed by the Jesuits, Nagasaki played a central role for Christianity in Japan. However, fearing its growing influence, the Samurai shogunate implemented a strict ban on the faith. This dark age of […]
The History and Culture of Kyushu from the Perspective of International Exchange
Located in the west of Japan, Kyushu has long been a gateway for exchange with other countries. We will explore the cultural exchanges in Kyushu from ancient to the early modern times including: Ancient Dazaifu was established as Japan’s base for diplomacy and defense in the 7th century. We’ll introduce the defense facilities built there […]
Anime Pilgrimage
Anime pilgrimage has become a bridge between pop culture and real-world exploration. During my speech, I will introduce the concept of seichi junrei, or anime pilgrimage, where fans visit the real-life locations featured in their favorite anime. Using examples from popular series such as Demon Slayer and Oshi no Ko, I will explain how these […]
Best Practice and Key Principles for Tourist Guide Associations
This session will examine foundational governance concepts and how they apply to Tourist Guide Associations. It will outline the core principles that support effective decision-making, accountability, and transparency, with a focus on building structures that genuinely serve members and uphold industry standards. The discussion will cover practical tools for strengthening constitutions, clarifying roles and responsibilities, […]
The Art of the Line
Part 1 History and Context The workshop will begin by tracing how kanji (Chinese characters), traveled to Japan, and how this led to the creation of the unique Japanese syllabaries, Hiragana and Katakana. We will look at examples to understand how calligraphy is still used in modern Japanese life, before introducing the essential calligraphy tools […]
Anime Pilgrimage
Anime pilgrimage has become a bridge between pop culture and real-world exploration. During my speech, I will introduce the concept of seichi junrei, or anime pilgrimage, where fans visit the real-life locations featured in their favorite anime. Using examples from popular series such as Demon Slayer and Oshi no Ko, I will explain how these […]
Lantern Painting
Engage in a creative session where you design your own unique paper lantern. You will have the opportunity to draw personal pictures, meaningful symbols, and letters. Challenge yourself by attempting to paint your name using Japanese characters! This is a perfect hands-on souvenir, as your finished lantern includes a battery-operated LED light. The painting session […]
Hakata Doll Painting
Select a hand-sized, unpainted pottery doll, representative of the famous Fukuoka local craft, Hakata Dolls. Personalize your chosen doll by painting it with your favorite colors, transforming a simple mold into your own piece of collectible art. While you work, you can explore the shop’s extensive gallery, featuring approximately 800 stunning dolls created by renowned […]
The Art of the Line
Part 1 History and Context The workshop will begin by tracing how kanji (Chinese characters), traveled to Japan, and how this led to the creation of the unique Japanese syllabaries, Hiragana and Katakana. We will look at examples to understand how calligraphy is still used in modern Japanese life, before introducing the essential calligraphy tools […]
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 […]
Lunch
A delicious standing buffet lunch offering both Japanese and Western delicacies
The Impact of Overtourism on Amsterdam Plus the Toledo Ordinance
During this workshop, I will present the findings of my research and then work with you to explore specific issues you may encounter at your own destinations. As the challenges could range from quite similar to markedly different, together we will build a comprehensive overview of the potential impacts associated with increased visitor numbers, as […]
The Art of Arranging Flowers
I want to provide an opportunity to elevate your understanding of Japanese culture with an exclusive, hands-on experience in Ikebana, the dynamic Japanese art of flower arrangement celebrated by admirers worldwide. I will invite you to immerse yourself in the philosophy of the Sogetsu School, one of the three major foundational schools of Ikebana. Known […]
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 […]
Community-Based Tourism
In this workshop Masanori will share his experience of turning local residents into heroes – in his own words: “In many village areas traditional cultures have their own answers to environmental conservation. These important stories are all too often lost, all over the world. For the purpose of environmental conservation, cultural protection, and economic stability […]
Cultivating the Good Life: Character Strengths Approach For Tourist Guides
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Training Committee Working Groups:
At the inaugural WFTGA Trainer Convention held in Sabah, Malaysia in February 2025, two dynamic working groups were established, each with a clear and exciting purpose: to strengthen WFTGA’s Training Material in the areas of Cultural Dexterity and Wildlife/Nature Guiding. Passionate volunteers from across the globe united to review existing WFTGA resources and share fresh […]
A Showcase of Universal and Timeless Guiding Skills’ WFTGA Trainers
WFTGA Trainers often refer to the toolkit of guiding skills. Join Helga and her team for an uplifting workshop that showcases universal and timeless guiding skills. Together, we’ll delve into the ‘magic box’ of guiding tools—essential techniques and approaches that every professional guide needs, no matter where in the world you work. This session will […]
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 […]
Book your personal meeting with the WFTGA President and ExBo Members (Treasurer, Head of Training)
Tourist Guides as Agents of Transformation
This interactive workshop brings together tourist guides and other tourism professionals from around the world for dialogue, reflection, and creative exchange. Against the backdrop of climate change, technological shifts, and evolving travel behaviors, participants will explore how guiding can become a force for truly sustainable change. Through inclusive facilitation and thought-provoking questions, the session encourages […]
KeyGuides Connect: Hands-on Tutorial and Helpdesk
Tourist Guides know that the first moments with a group set the tone for everything that follows. The heart of guiding is not information, but human connection — presence, energy, and trust. Yet too often, guides are weighed down by admin, bureaucracy, and unfair conditions that drain the very energy needed to create memorable experiences. […]
Gourmet and Food Tours
Gourmet and food tours offer a unique, immersive way to explore local culture, history, and gastronomy, making them ideal for fostering sustainable and responsible tourism. From savouring tropical smoothies in Rio to discovering hidden culinary gems in Paris, these experiences create lasting memories and deepen visitors’ connection to a destination. Led by knowledgeable guides, such […]
The Art of Arranging Flowers
I want to provide an opportunity to elevate your understanding of Japanese culture with an exclusive, hands-on experience in Ikebana, the dynamic Japanese art of flower arrangement celebrated by admirers worldwide. I will invite you to immerse yourself in the philosophy of the Sogetsu School, one of the three major foundational schools of Ikebana. Known […]
ChatGPT for Tourist Guides
In a world where digital tools are becoming travel companions, tourist guides must evolve. This dynamic workshop introduces ChatGPT not just as a technology, but as a new language — a language of creativity, adaptability, and smart storytelling. This hands-on session explores how AI can amplify your voice, elevate storytelling, and streamline your professional workflow. […]
Roundtables
During the WFTGA International Convention in Japan, all participants are invited to take part in a series of moderated Global Round Tables, which will be held both on-site and online to ensure inclusive participation from our worldwide guiding community. Ten key themes—identified throughout the past year during the Global Networking Forums—will form the basis of […]