Table of Contents

1. The Growing Focus on MICE Tourism Strategies in Recent Years
2. What Is an “Excursion”? Its Meaning and Benefits
3. Excursion Programs Utilizing Unique Venues
4. How to Fully Enjoy the Region Through Unique Venues
5. What UNIQUE VENUES OF JAPAN Can Offer

The Growing Focus on MICE Tourism Strategies in Recent Years

In 2022, Japan eased its border restrictions related to COVID-19, leading to a steady increase in the number of inbound travelers. With this rise in inbound demand and the growing number of visitors to Japan, MICE has become an increasingly important tourism strategy.

MICE is an acronym that stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions/Events. In the context of inbound tourism, it often refers to travelers who visit Japan specifically to attend or participate in such events. Since both organizers and participants tend to stay in the host city for extended periods, MICE events contribute significantly to local economies through spending on accommodations, dining, sightseeing, and various other activities. As a result, MICE is seen as a key driver of regional economic revitalization.

As a result, an increasing number of regions are striving to attract MICE events, making it essential for each prefecture and area to establish distinctive appeal. For event organizers seeking to introduce an added element of uniqueness to the many MICE events being held, incorporating an excursion program is highly recommended.

What Is an “Excursion”? Its Definition and Advantages

An excursion refers to an “experiential study tour.” Participants are guided through the natural environment, history, and culture of the destination, gaining insights from local guides. Through shared experiences and discussions among participants, the program fosters a deeper understanding of local social capital.

As part of MICE programs, excursions may include highly tourism-oriented activities or specialized technical visits to production sites and facilities. This format allows participants to rediscover the unique appeal of the region itself, offering an opportunity to appreciate various aspects such as nature, history, and culture.

Excursion Programs Utilizing Unique Venues

A Unique Venue refers to a special venue that is made available for purposes different from its original intended use, offering exclusive experiences. Examples include historic buildings, shrines and temples, castle ruins, art museums, and museums — all characterized by their distinctive atmosphere. Hosting events at cultural heritage sites offers guests a unique and memorable experience. Moreover, such venues provide valuable opportunities to learn about the history and culture embedded in these properties, making them particularly well-suited for excursion programs.

Introducing Ways to Fully Experience the Region Through Unique Venues

In this section, we will introduce recommended unique venues in Kyoto, one of Japan’s leading tourist destinations.

ーKyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art

The Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art is the oldest existing public art museum in Japan. A guided tour of the museum allows visitors to experience the beauty of Japanese architecture firsthand. Accompanied by expert commentary from curators, participants can deepen their understanding of both domestic and international culture and art.

After the guided tour, guests can enjoy an aperitif party held within the museum. The surrounding area is rich in sightseeing attractions, including the renowned Heian Shrine, offering ample opportunities to fully immerse oneself in Kyoto’s history and culture.

For more details on the venue, click here.

ーAKAGANE RESORT KYOTO HIGASHIYAMA 1925

Located in the heart of Higashiyama, AKAGANE RESORT KYOTO HIGASHIYAMA 1925 offers a dining experience after guests freely explore the renowned Higashiyama area, one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist destinations. The facility is surrounded by numerous attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Kōdai-ji Temple, and Nene-no-Michi Street.

Hōkan-ji Temple and Yasaka Pagoda, with over 500 years of history, are also available as unique venues. Guests can fully immerse themselves in Kyoto’s nature, history, and culture.

More details on AKAGANE RESORT KYOTO HIGASHIYAMA 1925

More details on Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)

What UNIQUE VENUES OF JAPAN Can Offer

For organizers considering business events such as excursion programs, UNIQUE VENUES OF JAPAN offers comprehensive one-stop support — from event planning and venue arrangements to preparation and on-site management.

For inquiries, please contact us here.