Events Archive

Convention Bidding Webinar

After the second round of bidding, we’re excited to share that Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and Peru have been accepted by the Bidding Committee. Since the voting process has changed, we’re hosting a short webinar to walk everyone through the new procedure. 🗓 23 January 2025 ⏰ 13:00 CET It’s important that all appointed delegates join […]

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. […]

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!

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.

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 […]

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.

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.

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 […]

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.

Downtown Tenjin

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 held during the morning; your specific timeslot will be confirmed once groups are finalized.)

Toyota Lexus Factory & Kokura Castle

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 modern industry. The tour balances this industrial experience with a […]

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 […]

Using a Phone Camera to Create Lasting Memories

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Networking Dinner

Get together with your colleagues from all over the world, catch up, exchange ideas and spend a wonderful evening.

Tea Ceremony 101

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 sado (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 […]

Fukuoka’s Eastern Seashore

Fukuoka City’s eastern seashore is rooted in a rich blend of ancient Shinto tradition, historical significance, and sprawling nature along its sand bridge and adjacent islands. Surrounded by the ocean, this tour visits two sites that exemplify how this proximity to the sea influences both the spiritual and practical life of the community. You will […]

Fukuoka’s Western Seashore

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, Japan’s tallest seaside tower. This tour allows you to experience simulated natural disasters and examine […]

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.

Kawabata Shopping Arcade & Canal City

Wander through the covered Kawabata Shopping Arcade, the historical merchant heart of the city, before exploring the spectacular modern architecture and dynamic retail environment 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 the morning; your specific timeslot […]

Eco Town Center, Next-Gen Energy Park & Kokura Castle

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 industrial zone for resource recycling and zero-emission manufacturing, and the […]

Mojiko & Kokura Castle

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 a sustainable tourism hub. You will also experience the historical […]

Lunch

Lunch is included and will be provided where is convenient for each tour.

TOTO Museum & Kokura Castle

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 technological history of sanitary development. You will trace the evolution […]

Sacred World Heritage Site and Founding Tradition

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 a maritime tradition of faith and the preservation of the […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Training Division Meeting

Tea Ceremony 101

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 […]

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 […]

Anime Pilgrimage

Tea Ceremony 101

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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