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 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, […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Book your personal meeting with the WFTGA President and ExBo Members (Treasurer, Head of Training)
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Lunch
A delicious standing buffet lunch offering both Japanese and Western delicacies
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Orientation Walk
A simple, guided walk around the official hotel area introducing essential shops and the route to the convention venue Meeting Place: The Convention’s Hospitality Desk in the lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 04:00 PM
Orientation Walk
A simple, guided walk around the official hotel area introducing essential shops and the route to the convention venue. Meeting Place: The Convention’s Hospitality Desk in the lobby of Hotel Okura
Orientation Walk
A simple, guided walk around the official hotel area introducing essential shops and the route to the convention venue Meeting Place: The Convention’s Hospitality Desk in the lobby of Hotel Okura Meeting Time: 03:00 PM
Orientation Walk
A simple, guided walk around the official hotel area introducing essential shops and the route to the convention venue.
Orientation Walk
A simple, guided walk around the official hotel area introducing essential shops and the route to the convention venue.
From Human Connection to Collective Power – The Future of Guiding in a Digital Age
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. […]
Orientation Walk
A simple, guided walk around the official hotel area introducing essential shops and the route to the convention venue.
Guiding with Values – UNESCO Normative Frameworks for Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Heritage Interpretation
Tourist guides are at the frontline of sustainable tourism. Through their daily interactions with visitors, they translate global values into lived experience and shape how heritage is understood, respected and transmitted. This keynote situates the work of tourist guides within UNESCO’s normative frameworks, highlighting how these instruments can support value-based heritage interpretation in the face […]
Surprise Performance & Welcoming Words
At 09:00 AM sharp the Host Committee will start with an opening act that you don’t want to miss! We won’t share more information so as not to ruin the surprise but let’s just say that you’ll experience a part of Japanese culture that not many get to see. This will be followed by welcoming […]
A “Guidebook to Japan”
Host Committee members will get on stage and introduce Japanese culture and customs – Everything you need to know to enjoy your stay in Japan!
Iaido
Iaidō is the Japanese martial art of the sword. Each technique is characterized by starting with the sword sheathed in the scabbard, and the practitioner responding to a variety of opponents attacking from situations a samurai would traditionally have had to deal with before resheathing the sword—from fighting in narrow spaces, buildings with low ceilings, […]
Lunch
A delicious standing buffet lunch offering both Japanese and Western delicacies
Tea & Coffee Break
A convenient tea and coffee break perfect to chat and relax
Bidding Countries’ Presentations
The wait is over! Watch the presentations from the four countries competing to host the next WFTGA Convention.
Closing Remarks
Closing remarks and a look ahead to the coming days, presented by the WFTGA President.
Interactive Magic Show
My name is Morry, and like you, I’m a licensed tourist guide—but with a magical twist. I will liven-up the Welcome Dinner with an exciting interactive magic show featuring mentalism, a mysterious prediction box, and the astonishing table levitation. Get ready to experience wonder, laughter, and a touch of the impossible—right here in Fukuoka. Let’s […]
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. […]
The Evolution of Japan’s Inbound Guiding and Its Sustainable Future
I will speak about Japan’s guide qualification system, the current state of the inbound tourism industry—which is said to have revived after the pandemic—its various challenges, and the essential mindset that guides should convey in their guiding.
Sustainability of Kyushu Island: Move Japan Forward from Kyushu
During his tenure as Chairman of the Kyushu Economic Federation, Mr. Aso prioritised tourism and agriculture, recognising them as Kyushu’s key strengths. In his keynote speech, he will discuss some of the initiatives he implemented in these two areas. In terms of tourism, the idea behind the “Tour de Kyushu” was that holding cycling races in […]
WFTGA 2026 Convention Programme Finalised – Live Walkthrough & Sign-Up Guide
Dear friends! ❤️ Thank you to everyone who registered for the WFTGA 2026 Convention! We are excited to announce that the Main Convention Programme is now finalized. There are a variety of options of workshops, study tours, and city tours to choose from. To help you navigate your choices, we will hold a detailed walkthrough […]
Global Networking Forum 2026- Hosted By WFTGA Team Europe
WFTGA Global Networking Forum 2026 – Team Europe WFTGA is back with the Global Networking Forum 2026, starting with Team Europe. This inclusive online forum brings together professional guides and visitor-facing tourism professionals from around the world for deeper discussions, practical guidance, and meaningful connections. Open to all guiding and interpretation professionals, the forum offers […]