#Japan #Gunma #Pet Tourism #Gunma Prefecture #OVER Inc.

Promoting Dog Tourism in Gunma Prefecture

Gunma Prefecture, renowned for its easy access from the metropolitan area and its rich offerings including soothing hot springs, abundant nature, and fresh food, is actively encouraging dog tourism through a project named 'WAN-TABI Gunma'. This initiative aims to utilize the region's strengths to attract dog owners looking for travel destinations that are enjoyable for both humans and their pets.

On July 14, 2026, the 'WAN-TABI Gunma' pet tourism promotion seminar was held at the NETSUGEN space on the 32nd floor of the Gunma Prefectural Government building. The event saw a total of 57 participants, including 34 business operators from the morning session and 23 representatives from municipalities and tourism associations in the afternoon.

The seminar focused on the theme, 'Pet tourism can be a new gateway for the region.' In the morning, it aimed at the practical acceptance of guests traveling with dogs, while the afternoon session dealt with establishing a regional promotional framework.

Participant Insights: Challenges in Pet Acceptance

After the seminar, an anonymous feedback survey revealed that even businesses already accommodating guests traveling with dogs expressed concerns. Frequent issues highlighted included:

1. Improving facilities and environment for pet accommodation.
2. Effective handling of potential problems and visitor etiquette.
3. Staff training and customer service improvements.
4. Enhancing attraction efforts and information distribution.

There is a distinct difference between being willing to accept pet owners and actually being chosen by them for their travels. This is where further development is crucial, with businesses needing to refine their practices to build a sustainable business model that contributes positively to the region.

Municipalities and Tourism Bodies' Challenges

Representatives from municipalities and tourism associations highlighted a significant hurdle: the lack of clarity regarding how many pet-friendly facilities exist in their areas. They expressed the desire to compile a list of such venues and verify the number of pet-friendly accommodation options available. This issue is not isolated to just Gunma Prefecture; it is prevalent across regions engaging in pet tourism.

The seminar provided good examples of local businesses leading the charge in dog tourism. By adapting existing services to cater to pet owners, they can potentially unlock new markets.

Upcoming Workshop: Creating Dog-Friendly Menus

As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance the region’s dog-friendly offerings, a workshop named 'Doggie Meals Workshop' will be organized on July 28, 2026. This event, scheduled from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the GINGHAM kitchen space on the 31st floor of the prefectural government building, will focus on developing dog menus using locally sourced ingredients.

Led by nutritionist Saya Hiraide, participants will learn:

• - Safe and lawful sales methods for pet food.
• - Creative ideas for making meals that dogs love.
• - How to incorporate local specialties into dog treats.

Delicacies like blueberry ice cream, konjac dumplings, and Tsumagoi cabbage biscuits will be featured, all showcasing ingredients abundant in Gunma Prefecture.

Workshop Details

• - Event Name: 'Doggie Meals Workshop' - Learning Menu Development for High Added Value
• - Date: July 28, 2026
• - Location: GINGHAM, Gunma Prefectural Government Building, Maebashi City
• - Participants: Local businesses interested in developing dog-friendly menus
• - Capacity: 15 participants (initial registration; up to 2 attendees per facility)
• - Fees: Free of charge
• - Qualification of the Instructor: Saya Hiraide, certified pet nutritionist
• - Registration Deadline: July 24, 2026, via registration form

Conclusion

Both the seminar and workshop are organized as a collaborative effort between Gunma Prefecture and OVER Inc., the latter being entrusted with various promotional activities focused on pet tourism since 2024. With such initiatives, Gunma aims to not only create a pet-friendly environment but also enhance local economies while offering unique travel experiences for pet owners and their furry companions.