Examples of unique venues that contribute to the preservation of Fukuoka’s cultural heritage

A unique venue showcase event: WAZA Department in FUKUOKA

WAZA Department in FUKUOKA was organized by the Fukuoka Area MICE Business Council, which consists of FCVB, HAPPO-EN Area Produce KEGO Co., Ltd., and HAPPO-EN NETWORK PRODUCTION. The event served as a major step forward in promoting Fukuoka to the world by rediscovering the city’s historical and cultural value and offering unique, Fukuoka-specific experiences in a brand-new venue setting. The success of this event not only laid the foundations for Fukuoka’s development in the MICE market, but also highlighted Kego Shrine—the event venue—as a symbolic and promising unique venue that is expected to be utilized for future MICE activities.

Academic dinner at Sumiyoshi Shrine Noh Theater, a cultural property of Fukuoka City

Following two years of renovations, the newly restored Noh Theater hosted impressive performances of traditional Japanese arts such as Noh and Gagaku. In the sumo ring located within the grounds of Sumiyoshi Shrine, visitors were also treated to an open training session by the Asakayama Sumo Stable during the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament. Academic conference participants from overseas were deeply impressed by the experience, with many exclaiming, “Amazing!”

Previously published articles highlighting instances of collaboration between MICE initiatives and the local community

Bridging citizens and academic conferences: organizer perspectives