#Japan #Tourism Project #Hagi #Hagi City #Innovational Models

Launch of the Hagi Tourism Model Project

On July 22, 2026, a significant collaborative press conference was held in Hagi City, Japan, marking the launch of the Hagi Tourism Model Project. This initiative, co-organized by Hagi City, led by Mayor Tada Fumio, and the Graduate School of Business Design in Tokyo, aims to tackle various challenges facing the local tourism sector by creating innovative tourism models.

A total of 10 researchers from diverse backgrounds and experiences were recruited through a public call to contribute to about ten months of research focused on this initiative. Their goal is not only to analyze existing tourism problems but also to propose and implement new business ideas that could aid Hagi's recovery and growth, particularly targeting the off-peak seasons for tourism.

Background of the Project

Hagi City is recognized as one of the foundational hubs of the Meiji Restoration, boasting a rich historical heritage. The local government has positioned tourism as a vital industry essential for sustainable development. However, significant obstacles remain, such as increasing visitor numbers during off-peak periods and enhancing accessibility from both within and outside the city.

To address these challenges, it is essential to foster public-private partnerships by leveraging expertise from both sectors. The Graduate School of Business Design, with its extensive experience in solving regional issues, is collaborating with local leaders in this endeavor to create actionable tourism models.

Features of the Project

The research team comprises ten experts who will work on developing both group and individual business proposals. The groups will focus on specific challenges, including:
1. Increasing accommodation numbers during off-peak seasons.
2. Improving access to and from Hagi.
Individual members will propose projects that capitalize on their unique strengths or the strengths of their respective organizations.

The project aims to cultivate innovative ideas through the following unique elements:
1. A Specialized Program in Innovation: This initiative forms part of Japan's only graduate school dedicated to developing new business ideas, led by an experienced faculty specializing in innovation strategies. They will assist participants in formulating and evaluating their proposals meticulously.
2. Utilizing Local Resources: The project will harness Hagi's abundant local resources to construct practical and distinctive tourism initiatives with a high likelihood of implementation.
3. Networking with Leading Experts: Renowned figures from various sectors, including government officials, scholars, and entrepreneurs, will be invited as guest lecturers to provide support and guidance in innovation processes.
4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The research team will be composed of individuals from various industries, accelerating the creation of new value that transcends conventional industry boundaries.

Statements from Local Leadership

Mayor Tada Fumio of Hagi stated, "Hagi is a city rich in history and tradition, having produced numerous significant figures during the Meiji Restoration. As we embark on this project, we aim to tackle our tourism challenges, such as attracting visitors during off-peak times and improving accessibility. Like the champions of the past, we invite passionate participants to help illuminate the future of Hagi's tourism landscape."

President Risa Tanaka of the Graduate School of Business Design stated, "Since our establishment in 2012, we have been committed to training professionals who contribute to solving regional issues. Together with the researchers, we will devise a new tourism model aligned with Hagi's tourism vision, addressing key themes such as increasing visitor numbers during off-peak times and improving access to and from the city. Our aim is to leverage our educational resources and networks to contribute to the sustainable development of Hagi City."

Call for Researchers

The project will run from October 2026 to July 2027, with a recruitment target of 10 researchers through public applications.

• - Participants are expected to propose individual concepts and work in groups on two primary themes: increasing accommodation numbers during off-peak periods and enhancing access.
• - The project is organized by Hagi City and co-hosted with the Graduate School of Business Design and its affiliated research institute.

More details, including orientation schedules and application processes, will be announced on the school’s website.

About the Graduate School of Business Design

The Graduate School of Business Design, opened in April 2012 in Minato, Tokyo, specializes in business concept development. Its curriculum focuses on generating innovative ideas and transforming them into actionable plans. With a flexibly structured two-year program, students engage in intense discussions with diverse practitioners and faculty, ultimately culminating in a Master of Project Design degree.
With multiple campuses across Japan, the school has produced numerous successful innovations and projects aimed at addressing various business challenges while contributing to academic research and development in this field.

About Hagi City

Nestled in the northern part of Yamaguchi Prefecture, Hagi City covers an area of 698.5 square kilometers and is home to around 40,000 residents. Known for its historical significance and natural beauty, Hagi boasts unique local resources like Hagi pottery and exquisite seafood. The city combines its rich heritage with modern tourism strategies, making it a remarkable destination for both local and international visitors.