The Birth of Future Society Design Institute: Merging Travel and Digital Solutions to Tackle Local Issues
On February 27, the Tobu Top Tours Co., Ltd., headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo, announced the establishment of the Future Society Design Institute (FSDi). This initiative brings together knowledge from various sectors, including public, private, and academic fields, with the goal of developing sustainable regional models. FSDi represents Japan's first dedicated platform for co-creation in the tourism industry, uniquely combining the company’s expertise in digital transformation (DX) for municipalities and its strong ties within the travel sector.
Given the increasing complexity and diversity of contemporary social issues, there is an urgent need for organizations to collaborate beyond traditional boundaries. The aim of this organization is to create a platform for sustainable regional models that accelerates well-being in communities. By bringing together corporations, local governments, students, supporters, and partners from sectors such as lodging, transportation, and tourism, FSDi will facilitate diverse solutions and innovative ideas to tackle community challenges. Events such as “challenge pitch events” and “tourism DX exhibition meetings” are set to take place, alongside initiatives supporting student career development through hackathons and ideathons focused on community issue resolution.
The inaugural event, “Future Society Design Institute Kickoff 2026,” will take place on February 27, 2026. It features a keynote speech by Mr. Toshiharu Nagasaka, Head of the Regional Promotion Department at the Japan Tourism Agency, who will discuss how tourism can become a sustainable growth industry. Additionally, a talk titled “Harnessing Community Strengths to Challenge the World” will be facilitated with Mari Motohashi, representative of the general incorporated association Loco Solare.
This kickoff event marks the beginning of a series of matching and co-creation programs throughout the year, aimed at accelerating concrete actions toward solving challenges within communities. Through this project, Tobu Top Tours aims to contribute insights and networks directly back to regional revitalization efforts, seeking to create new social value and lead the way toward a sustainable future.
Event Overview
- - Event name: Future Society Design Institute Kickoff 2026 - Accelerating the Implementation of a Sustainable Future
- - Date: February 27, 2026, from 1:30 PM to 5:50 PM
- - Venue: Innovation Oasis on the 19th floor of W Building, Tobu Top Tours (Minato, Tokyo) and online participation
- - Featured Guests:
Mr. Toshiharu Nagasaka,
Head of Regional Promotion Department, Japan Tourism Agency
Ms. Mari Motohashi,
Representative of Loco Solare
Contact Information
Future Society Design Institute Secretariat
C/o Tobu Top Tours Co., Ltd., Future Co-Creation Lab
E-mail:
[email protected]
Official Website
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