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Sports Business Japan Conference 2026

The Sports Business Japan Conference 2026 is set to take place on January 22-23, 2026, at the prestigious Congress Square Nihonbashi, conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Tokyo Station. This year's theme focuses on the 'Legacy and Future of Sports Business', emphasizing the importance of passing on the knowledge and insights from past generations while innovating new business values for the future.

Jointly organized by the Japan Sports Industry Association and Congrès Corporation, this conference aims to bring together various stakeholders from the sports business sector, including government officials, local authorities, and sports-related organizations. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with industry leaders and participate in sessions focusing on various aspects of sports business and its future direction.

Conference Overview

• - Theme: Legacy and Future of Sports Business
• - Organizer: Japan Sports Industry Association / Congrès Corporation
• - Date: January 22 (Thursday) – January 23 (Friday)
• - Venue: Congress Square Nihonbashi, 1-3-13 Nihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0027
• - Format: On-site attendance + Livestream
• - Participation Fee: Free (Pre-registration required)
• - Target Audience: Professionals in the sports business sector, government officials, local authorities, relevant organizations.

Keynote Speaker and Sessions

On the first day, attendees can look forward to a keynote speech by Takuya Yoshimi, an advisor at the Japan Sports Agency, discussing the progression of sports industry growth policies over the past ten years since the agency's establishment and the necessary steps for future growth. Key insights will be shared regarding the developments in the stadium and arena sector.

The following sessions will include speakers from notable companies like Pia Corporation and Panasonic Group, sharing their experiences and initiatives in the realm of sports business. For instance, Ryota Sakai, head of sports business management at Pia, will focus on the legacy created by individuals supporting the industry and the urgent need for sustainable human resource development.

Moreover, sessions will cover how the Panasonic Group enhances sports value in communities and introduce innovative business endeavors like the 'BLUE FANS' project, which blends quality dining experiences with sports viewing.

The second day of the conference will showcase discussions led by experts exploring the future of stadiums and arenas, featuring case studies on the successful K Arena Yokohama and its design considerations. Industry leaders will examine how to create sustainable staffing solutions within the sports field, offering critical reflections on fostering the next generation of professionals.

Future Direction of Sports Business in Japan

The Sports Business Japan Conference aims not only to provide a platform for networking but also to catalyze growth within the sports sector. By facilitating knowledge exchange, the conference aspires to support the sustainable evolution of Japan's sports industry. It underscores the significance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders, envisioning a vibrant future for sports business through continuous dialogue and practical experimentation.

Participants will also benefit from networking opportunities designed to foster connections that could lead to exciting new initiatives and collaborations in sports business.

For more details, please visit the official site and stay updated via our social media channels as we approach the event date.

In conclusion, the SBJ Conference 2026 promises to be an enriching experience, bringing together professionals from various sectors of the sports industry to share insights, innovations, and opportunities for future growth. It’s a significant step towards building a resilient and vibrant sports ecosystem in Japan.