#Japan #Minato City #Future Society Design #Shiga Kogen #Tojinbo

Future Society Design Contest 2026

The Future Society Design Organization, based in Minato City, Tokyo, is set to launch an exciting new initiative—the Future Society Design Contest 2026. In collaboration with FLASPO and with support from partners like Tobu Top Tours and JSB (UniLife), this contest invites students to leverage their creative insights to solve the intricate issues facing local communities and the tourism industry.

Background and Objectives: Designing the Future of Tourism

Founded with the mission to build a sustainable future society through solid collaboration between industry, government, and academia, the Future Society Design Organization is now focusing on the tourism sector. The contest aims to deepen the connection between the tourism industry and student participants, encouraging innovative ideas that can inject fresh perspectives into current tourism challenges.

Through this initiative, students will engage with real-world issues facing popular tourism sites, bringing to the forefront unique experiences and content that can enhance local attractions and foster broader collaboration with partner members. By focusing on the student demographic, the contest seeks to inspire future talent in the tourism sector, contributing to both workforce development and social innovation.

Two Key Themes for Submission

1. Shiga Kogen, Nagano Prefecture: Redefining the National Park and Creating High-Value Experiences

Students are challenged to devise extraordinary events or experiences in the Shiga Kogen area during the summer to engage young visitors. Although Shiga Kogen is known for winter sports, it remains a hidden gem for summer tourism with its mild climate and stunning natural beauty. The goal is to create event-driven experiences that entice friends to visit the national park during summer.

Supporters Include:

• - Ministry of the Environment, Shiga Kogen Management Office
• - Ichinokami Onsen Beauty Ryokan
• - 2307 Group S&T Tourism Development Co., Ltd.

2. Tojinbo, Fukui Prefecture: Attractions to Extend Young Visitors' Stays

The second theme focuses on the Tojinbo area, a renowned scenic spot attracting over a million visitors each year. The challenge is to create proposals that encourage young tourists to extend their stay beyond a quick visit to admire the beautiful coastline and purchase souvenirs. Collaborating with local authorities, participants will address the ongoing urban revitalization project aiming to enhance overall visitor engagement.

Supporters Include:

• - Sakai City Tourism and Exchange Department
• - Tojinbo Town Development Co., Ltd.

Judging Panel

The contest will feature a distinguished panel of industry experts and FSDi board members to evaluate submissions based on creativity, practicality, and community impact.

Judges for Shiga Kogen:

• - Hiroaki Saisu, Executive at the 2307 Group
• - Officials from Tobu Top Tours and FSDi

Judges for Tojinbo:

• - Masakazu Kominami, CEO of Tojinbo Town Development Co., Ltd.
• - Officials from Sakai City and Tobu Top Tours

Evaluation Criteria

Submissions will be judged based on:
1. Feasibility: Proposals must be actionable and testable.
2. Youthfulness: Emphasis on young people's perspectives and creativity.
3. Utilization of Local Resources: The proposals should highlight the beauty of the area’s natural, environmental, and historical charms.
4. Impact and Uniqueness: Effectiveness in enhancing visitor stay and introducing fresh concepts.

Benefits and Schedule

Attractive Benefits:

• - Top two submissions in each theme (individuals or teams) will receive:

- Complimentary Local Site Visit: A two-day field trip to showcase facilities and refine ideas.
- Participation Rights in Final Presentation: Valuable feedback from judges during the final proposal presentation at the Tobu Top Tours Innovation Oasis.
- Membership Opportunity: Participants may join the FSDi as student supporters free of charge, keeping them engaged in future projects.

Timeline:

• - Submission Period: June 8 - July 20, 2026 (Tojinbo starts June 11)
• - Document Review & Announcement of Winners: Early August 2026
• - Local Site Visits:

- Shiga Kogen: August 20-21, 2026
- Tojinbo: August 25-26, 2026

• - Final Proposal Presentation: September 10, 2026, from 14:00 to 17:00.

Participation and Event Page Information

Students aged 18 and over (university, graduate, vocational students) can apply, either as individuals or teams of up to three members. Registration as a free FSDi student member is required to participate.

Event Pages:

• - Shiga Kogen: Visit Here
• - Tojinbo: Visit Here

About the Organizations Involved:

1. Future Society Design Organization (FSDi): A collaborative platform established to foster sustainable societal frameworks. Official Website
2. Tobu Top Tours Co., Ltd.: Promotes regional revitalization through connections with local government and tourism operators. Official Website
3. FLASPO Co., Ltd.: Operates a platform supporting student initiatives and manages project operations. Official Website
4. JSB (UniLife): Supports comfortable student living through accommodation management and community engagement. Official Website

Cooperating Organizations in Shiga Kogen:

• - Ministry of the Environment: For ecosystem protection and sustainable tourism.
• - Ichinokami Onsen Beauty Ryokan: A historic ryokan known for natural hot springs.
• - 2307 Group: Offers year-round activities at a premier resort.

Cooperating Organizations in Tojinbo:

• - Sakai City: Focused on tourism promotion and urban redevelopment.
• - Tojinbo Town Development Co., Ltd.: Aims for community enhancement and aesthetic landscape maintenance.