Japan is gaining an important position in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) tourism, thanks to cutting-edge infrastructure, an exceptionally efficient transport network and new direct connections with Italy. This destination stands out for its ability to combine age-old traditions with cutting-edge modernity, offering spectacular landscapes and a unique welcome, perfect for events, conferences and team-buildings that want to leave their mark.
Japan represents one of the most popular destinations for international events. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the MICE sector constitutes 11.3% of international tourist arrivals, a share that highlights the country’s attractiveness for the events market. In particular, Italy considers Japan a destination of choice for incentive trips and team-building activities, thanks to a combination of high technology and ancient traditions. The concept of omotenashi, or the Japanese art of hospitality, is an added value that permeates all levels of the experience, from hotels to transport, and contributes to making each event unique.
Starting December 3, 2024, ANA (All Nippon Airways), Japan’s flagship airline, will launch a new direct flight between Milan Malpensa and Tokyo Haneda, operating three times a week. This connection, available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, represents a strategic asset for the MICE sector, simplifying access to Japan for Italian event organizers and reducing travel times for participants.
Japan offers a range of high-quality MICE facilities, spread across major cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Luxury hotels, including the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto and the Hilton Tokyo Bay, boast modern meeting rooms, ideal for events of all sizes, with cutting-edge technological equipment and spaces adaptable to customer needs.
In addition to hotels, the country offers cutting-edge conference centers. The Tokyo International Forum, for example, is an iconic structure, with impressive glass and steel architecture. Located in the heart of the capital, the center offers eight main halls, including a 5,000-seat plenary, and over 7,000 square meters of exhibition space. The proximity to the main Tokyo stations and the advanced audiovisual equipment make it a privileged choice for large-scale events.
The Osaka International Convention Center, also known as Grand Cube Osaka, is another notable location, located along the Dojima River. This center has an auditorium with a capacity of over 2,500 seats and modular spaces, designed to accommodate conferences and meetings of all sizes. The center also focuses on sustainability, with eco-compatible solutions that meet the needs of the most environmentally conscious organizers.
Finally, the Kyoto International Conference Center (KICC) offers a unique atmosphere, with modern architecture steeped in Japanese tradition. Surrounded by the hills north of Kyoto, the KICC is one of the most iconic structures for exclusive events, with large gardens and spaces designed to encourage networking and moments of relaxation. The proximity to historic temples and cultural monuments makes this location particularly appreciated by those who want an evocative context.
One of Japan’s strengths for MICE tourism is the efficiency of its transportation system. The famous Shinkansen, the high-speed rail network, facilitates rapid travel between major cities, offering ideal solutions for traveling or multi-venue events. Urban transportation networks, such as the Tokyo subway and local train lines, also ensure smooth and convenient mobility, which is crucial for events with international participants.
The Japan Convention Bureau (JCB) is a key partner in the success of MICE events in Japan. This government agency, dedicated to promoting and supporting international meetings, offers a wide range of services for organizers, including assistance in selecting locations, support in logistics and connections with qualified local partners. The Bureau also provides promotional materials and, in some cases, financial support, to facilitate the planning of unforgettable events.
