#Japan #Tokyo #Student Innovation #Fujita Kanko #Business Ideas

Fujita Kanko’s Business Idea Contest 2025: A Platform for Student Innovation

Fujita Kanko Inc., headquartered in Tokyo and led by President Nobutaka Yamashita, celebrated its 70th anniversary by hosting the final round of the "Business Idea Contest 2025" on February 20, 2026, at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo. The contest, which began in 2023, aims to create new business ventures through collaboration between academia and industry, and has now reached its third edition.

Over the years, the contest has attracted a total of 400 participants, creating a unique space for collaboration and practical learning for students. This year, the final round featured ten teams, selected from numerous applications across Japan, who presented their innovative ideas through ten-minute presentations followed by a Q&A session. The ideas not only showcased the students' creativity but also their extensive research abilities, leading to insights and proposals that could change the industry landscape.

The jury was impressed with the diversity and originality of the proposals, noting that each idea included perspectives that could be challenging for companies to reach independently. The quotes from judges highlighted the competition and its potential to offer learning experiences and fresh insights to the Fujita Kanko team.

Contest Results

In the end, the contest awarded prizes to the most outstanding proposals:

• - Grand Prize: Yoshi Yamane and Haruto Sawakai from Kyoto University for their work titled "Chronical Journey."
• - Excellence Award: Issei Kayama from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology for his entry "Harvest Trip: Where Yield Becomes Your Travel Budget."
• - Special Award: Kaizuki Morita, Raito Takahashi, and Ren Niwatsuki from Bunkyo University for their idea "Fujita Kanko's Omotenashi at Japan's Gateway."

This initiative offers students a vital opportunity to connect their academic learning with real-world application, reinforcing this interplay as crucial for the future of the hospitality and tourism industry.

Future Prospects

Fujita Kanko is committed to evaluating the ideas generated through this contest for potential implementation and real-world testing. The company aims to create more practical learning environments for students and foster a deeper understanding of the tourism industry. This strategic collaboration aims to drive further advancement within the sector while aligning with Fujita Kanko's core philosophy of achieving a "rich and fulfilling society."

About Fujita Kanko Inc.

Founded in 1948 with the opening of Hakone Kowakien, and later the establishment of Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo in 1952, Fujita Kanko has been a pioneer in Japan’s travel sector. The company focuses on maximizing its resources, including human capital and heritage, to offer customers warm service and unique experiences. Their goal is to create new values that resonate with the diverse lifestyles of their guests, striving toward a rich and leaning society.

For further information, visit their official website.

Commitment to Sustainability

Since its inception, Fujita Kanko has embraced the corporate philosophy of contributing to a fulfilling society through healthy leisure spaces and warm services. Their ongoing efforts in environmental initiatives and diverse perspectives are foundational for the company’s sustainable growth, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Fujita Kanko continues to seek ways to tackle social issues through its business operations effectively, working toward a sustainable future.

For further details on their commitment to sustainability, please visit this link.

Overview of Fujita Kanko Group’s Facilities

Fujita Kanko operates a variety of notable facilities across Japan:

• - WHG Project: Featuring 34 locations including Washington Hotels and Hotel Gracery.
• - Luxury & Banquet Sector: Including Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo and other top-tier venues.
• - Resorts: Encompassing 19 locations such as Hakone Hotel Kowakien and ready to cater to unique vacation experiences.