Golf Tourism Co-Creation Program 'Amatellus' Thrives with Successful First Exchange Meeting

Golf Tourism Co-Creation Program 'Amatellus' Flourishes

The golf tourism co-creation program known as 'Amatellus' held its first exchange meeting on January 28, successfully bringing together various stakeholders involved in regional revitalization through golf tourism. Under the leadership of CEO Takafumi Kojima from Golf Tourism Japan, the event was a remarkable success.

Held at the Sambo BAR in Hamamatsucho, this event attracted representatives from local golf courses, accommodation facilities, businesspeople with a passion for local development, and inbound tourism experts. The gathering featured an opening speech by Kojima, focusing on the core mission of promoting mutual enrichment between Japan and the world through golf tourism. He shared a vision wherein golf courses serve as significant tourist resources contributing to regional revitalization.

Feedback from attendees echoed the sentiment that this initiative represented more than just a golf trip; it signaled a new model for regional development. Participants expressed a strong desire to extend the value of this model to all 47 prefectures, emphasizing the untapped potential of local resources aimed at reaching a global audience.

The vibrant atmosphere underscored a shared belief that on this day, the bonds among partners who aspire to convey Japan’s regional value to the world took a definitive step forward, marking a crucial milestone in their collaborative journey.

Upcoming Event Details: Amatellus Exchange Meeting

After witnessing the unexpected enthusiasm and engagement from the first meeting, the next event, titled 'Amatellus Exchange Meeting: A New Model of Golf Tourism Connecting Regions and the World', is set to take place on March 4, 2026.

- Date & Time: March 4, 2026, from 17:30 to 19:30
- Venue: Sambo BAR, Hamamatsucho, Tokyo
- Special Guest: Kenji Shintani, the CEO of Craft Tea and organizer of the 'Sambo' business community, will share practical success stories and insights from his initiatives in Shizuoka Prefecture, which focus on redefining regional resources through tea-based business models.

What is Amatellus?

The Amatellus program is dedicated to creating enduring connections between regions and the world, allowing for collaborative efforts to flourish. The program provides a 'Connector' system, rewarding individuals who discover and promote local golf courses, hotels, and experiential sites based on their achievements, along with a three-tier status system.

The Izanami Golf Platform

Leveraging AI technology, the Izanami Golf platform aims to minimize language and logistical barriers for overseas users seeking to engage in Japan's golf tourism, ensuring a seamless experience.

Brand Message: 'TELL US WHERE TO PLAY'

This message encourages travelers to express where they wish to play golf, while local partners share insights on the must-visit locales from a regional perspective, merging these voices to create new travel value.

Background & Market Opportunities

Although Japan holds the second-largest number of golf courses globally, its appeal has been scattered across regions. Amatellus seeks to consolidate this value and elevate inbound golf tourism to unprecedented heights, fulfilling the goal of regional revitalization.