Table of Contents

1.  Extraordinary Experiences Are the Key to Boosting Motivation
2. What Are the Attractions of Unique Venues?
3. The Motivational Impact of Extraordinary Spaces
4. Recommended Venues for Incentive Tours
5. Conclusion｜Special Experiences That Leave a Lasting Impression on Employees

An incentive tour is a special reward trip designed to recognize the contributions of employees or business partners and to boost their motivation. Recently, unique venue experiences—using spaces that are normally inaccessible, such as cultural heritage sites, museums, and historic buildings—have been gaining attention. Because they can be held domestically with minimal travel burden while offering a one-of-a-kind, extraordinary atmosphere, these experiences elevate incentive tours into more valuable and memorable events.

Extraordinary Experiences Are the Key to Boosting Motivation

Incentive tours organized by companies as rewards for employees or business partners are not just ordinary trips — they are strategic initiatives aimed at boosting motivation and strengthening organizational unity. However, traditional sightseeing-focused tours often lack a sense of exclusivity and extraordinariness, making them less memorable for participants.

In recent years, experience-based plans using unique venues within Japan have been gaining attention. Hosting events in special spaces that are usually off-limits—such as historic buildings, museums, and cultural facilities—creates value beyond a typical trip and gives participants a sense of being specially chosen.

This article introduces the appeal of incentive tours utilizing unique venues in Japan, along with concrete examples.

What Are the Attractions of Unique Venues?

Unlike ordinary banquet halls or hotels, unique venues refer to special locations such as historic buildings, art museums, gardens, temples and shrines, and cultural or historical museums. Their greatest appeal lies in offering participants a sense of “extraordinariness” and “exclusivity” that cannot be experienced in daily life.

For example, a private dinner held in a nationally treasured building or an awards ceremony surrounded by art leaves a powerful and lasting impression on participants. Because such venues are found throughout Japan, they allow companies to reduce travel time and costs while incorporating the distinct culture and traditions of each region. These extraordinary experiences provide added value well-suited for incentive tours, going far beyond the typical travel experience.

The Motivational Impact of Extraordinary Spaces

In incentive tours, it is essential for participants to feel a sense of pride and exclusivity — the feeling of being specially chosen. Unique venues are particularly well-suited for this purpose, making them ideal locations for award ceremonies and parties. For example, a solemn award presentation in a historic building or a gala dinner surrounded by cultural heritage creates unforgettable moments for participants.

Moreover, combining these events with special dishes using local ingredients or performances of traditional arts allows participants to experience the unique charms of each region. Incorporating community-focused activities, such as agricultural experiences or traditional crafts, can further enhance corporate value from a CSR or SDGs perspective. By utilizing unique venues, the impact and effectiveness of incentive tours are significantly elevated.

Recommended Venues for Incentive Tours

Kudan Kaikan Terrace

Tokyo｜Chiyoda-ku

Kudan Kaikan Terrace, a registered cultural property established in 1934 (Showa 9), offers a unique space that combines historical value with stunning urban views. Its all-glass café area and rooftop terrace provide panoramic vistas of the Imperial Palace and Budokan, allowing for an open and memorable party experience right in the heart of Tokyo.

The 92.54㎡ café accommodates up to 34 seated guests or 40 standing guests and is fully equipped with sound, lighting, and screen facilities. It is ideal for a wide range of events, including aperitif parties, award ceremonies, and gala dinners, where guests can enjoy light meals and drinks. With its historical charm and sophisticated atmosphere, Kudan Kaikan Terrace is a perfect venue for incentive tours that aim to deliver a true sense of exclusivity and special experience.

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AKAGANE RESORT TOKYO HIGASHIYAMA 1925

Kyoto｜Higashiyama

AKAGANE RESORT KYOTO HIGASHIYAMA 1925, located among the famous sightseeing spots of Higashiyama, Kyoto, is a renovated residence originally owned by a long-established copper processing company with a history of approximately 250 years. The historic building, constructed in 1925 (Taisho 14), has been modernized while preserving its charm, featuring sophisticated spaces adorned with copper and peacock motifs.

The resort offers multiple venues, including HISUI, AKAGANE, and KIWAMI, accommodating up to 112 seated guests. Guests can enjoy private gardens and expansive grounds along with exquisite French-inspired cuisine and various attractions. It is ideal for parties, award ceremonies, and aperitif events. Surrounded by the serene atmosphere of Higashiyama, this venue provides the exclusive and extraordinary experience that only a unique domestic venue can offer.

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Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts

Osaka｜Tennoji

Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, located within Tennoji Park in Osaka, is a historic public museum that opened in 1936 (Showa 11). In 2025 (Reiwa 7), it was renewed as an “Open Museum,” allowing for private use as an extraordinary venue while exhibiting works including important cultural properties.

The Central Hall spans 338㎡ and accommodates up to 120 seated guests or 300 standing guests, making it ideal for gala dinners featuring live music or art performances. The Jaolium can host seminars, workshops, and after-parties, while the Special Room—normally closed to the public—supports small private dinners or closed meetings. With its majestic marble spaces and bright natural lighting, the museum offers a unique and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for incentive tours or award ceremonies seeking a truly exceptional experience.

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Heian Jingu Kaikan

Kyoto｜Okazaki

Heian Jingu Kaikan, located in Okazaki, Kyoto, is a unique, all-weather venue adjacent to the nationally designated scenic garden, Shinen. Renovated in 2018, it offers multiple spaces—including the Geihinden, Seihoden, and Lobby Lounge—that can be fully booked for groups ranging from small parties to up to 200 guests. Guests can enjoy seasonal views of the garden through floor-to-ceiling windows while savoring traditional Kyoto cuisine or Japanese-Western fusion dishes.

Combining historic architecture with modern facilities, Heian Jingu Kaikan is ideal for parties, award ceremonies, aperitif gatherings, and events incorporating cultural experiences. The building’s irimoya-style roof harmonizes with the garden, creating a sophisticated and extraordinary atmosphere that provides participants with a truly special experience, making it a premier domestic unique venue.

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Conclusion｜Creating Special Experiences That Leave a Lasting Impression on Employees

Incentive tours utilizing unique venues in Japan are more than just trips—they provide participants with extraordinary experiences and a sense of exclusivity. Distinctive venues such as historic buildings, scenic gardens, and cultural facilities create lasting memories that leave a deep impression on employees and business partners alike. By carefully selecting the venue and designing the event, these tours can directly contribute to team cohesion and motivation.

For your next incentive tour, consider a plan that leverages the special qualities of domestic unique venues to deliver an unforgettable experience for your participants. At UNIQUE VENUES OF JAPAN, we provide one-stop support, from venue selection and event planning to catering and experiential program arrangements. Please feel free to contact us.

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