#Japan #Fukuoka #Asia New Travel #Tourism Startup

Asia New Travel Bootcamp (ANTB) in Fukuoka 2026

The Asia New Travel Bootcamp (ANTB) is set to commence in Fukuoka, Japan, on October 6, 2026. This event is jointly organized by Yugyo Inc. from Fukuoka and WithBlue DMC from Okinawa, and marks the first occasion for the conference to be held outside Okinawa since its inception in 2024. With a capacity of 150 participants, ticket sales began on September 1, and the event will also welcome sponsors and participants for tourism tech startup pitches.

The Shift in Tourism

Japan’s rich history with wellness tourism traces back to the 8th century with the practice of toji (medical hot springs), as documented in ancient texts like the Izumo no Kuni Fudoki. Despite this long-standing tradition, it did not carry the frameworks or pricing associated with modern wellness tourism until now.

According to a report by the Market Research Center dated August 20, 2026, Japan's wellness tourism market is projected to expand to $28.67 billion by 2025, with an average annual growth rate of 6.7% leading to an estimated $54.84 billion by 2035. This puts Japan in a unique position to grow and innovate within the wellness travel sector.

Additionally, the rise of digital nomads, who pursue a lifestyle often described by the Japanese term Ikigai (a reason for being), emphasizes the growing desire for a fulfilling life that transcends cultural barriers. The conference seeks to explore the synergy between local values and global demands in this rapidly evolving market.

Event Highlights

ANTB Fukuoka 2026 will serve as a collaborative platform, bringing together various stakeholders including hotels, travel agencies, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), and investors. Here’s a breakdown of the day's agenda:

1. Frontline of Wellness Travel (13:30 - 14:30)
A discussion led by Hidenori Go of WithBlue DMC examining the fusion of Eastern wisdom in health longevity and Western bio-tech methodologies within the wellness travel sector.

2. Asia Pivot Pitch (14:40 - 16:00)
Six travel tech companies will present their innovative ideas, with the opportunity for the best performer to earn a pitching spot at the next ANTB event in Okinawa.

3. From the Local (16:00 - 17:00)
Local tourism professionals will offer insights into sustainable wellness tourism initiatives that benefit their regions, addressing both challenges and opportunities for Okinawa and Kyushu.

4. Networking (17:00 - 17:30)
Participants and pitch presenters will have a chance to network and engage in discussions, following matched appointments based on preliminary registration.

Post-Conference Networking at Founders Lounge

Following the conference sessions, all attendees are invited to the Founders Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, which is conveniently located on the 24th floor of the same building that hosts the event. This exclusive networking space will provide an intimate setting to continue discussions over light snacks and beverages, enabling participants to build relationships and foster collaborations that can lead to impactful innovations in the tourism sector.

Future of Tourism Tech in Fukuoka

The Fukuoka event coincides with the Colive Fukuoka 2026 long-term stay program and the RAMEN TECH 2026 startup conference, allowing international attendees to maximize their experience by connecting with multiple stakeholders across different events.

According to Ryo Osera, CEO of Yugyo Inc., “Fukuoka’s accessibility from major Asian cities positions it as a strategic gateway for tourism tech innovation. We hope to catalyze exciting developments as we integrate Okinawa’s potential with Fukuoka’s opportunities.” Underlining the sentiment, Hidenori Go of WithBlue DMC stated, “ANTB is about fostering co-creation among tourism innovators. By addressing both local market conditions and global tourism trends, we aim to encourage meaningful dialogue and stimulate innovative changes in the sector.”

Join Us

For those interested in joining this remarkable event, registration details can be found at ANTB Fukuoka Registration. The event is set to be held in English, with additional support available for Japanese speakers.

As we glaze into a future where wellness tourism thrives, ANTB may well become a cornerstone for fostering connections and driving change in the travel landscape across Asia.