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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]