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JTB Tourism Business College NEXT: Shaping the Future of Tourism Education

In a move aimed at energizing the tourism sector, the International Culture Academy, located in Toshima, Tokyo, is set to unveil the JTB Tourism Business College NEXT in Spring 2026. This innovative educational platform is designed specifically to support both professionals seeking retraining and university students seeking job experience within the tourism industry. Drawing from over 40 years of expertise accumulated in the JTB Tourism Business College, this new initiative aims to cultivate a skilled workforce prepared to navigate the evolving demands of the tourism sector.

Background and Challenges

The tourism industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation, spurred by a dramatic increase in inbound demand, regional revitalization driven by decreasing population, and a pronounced shift towards digitalization. Despite these advancements, the industry faces pressing challenges such as a severe labor shortage and rising turnover rates fueled by increased job mobility. To address these issues, there’s a critical need for individual skill enhancement and retraining to adapt to changes in work practices brought about by innovations like digital transformation (DX) and generative AI.

In an increasingly globalized context, it is essential to nurture a new generation of talent, including foreign personnel, capable of supporting the country's vital tourism sector. Responding to these societal needs, JTB College NEXT is committed to equipping professionals and students with the necessary skills for immediate engagement in the future tourism industry's growth.

Features of JTB College NEXT

JTB College NEXT boasts several defining strengths: 1) Practicality derived from extensive experience in tourism education; 2) Reliability, ensured through JTB Group's vast industry network; and 3) Advanced Learning Opportunities, facilitated through collaboration with government, industry, and academia. The program offers a fresh educational landscape known as the 'Future Tourism Academy,' where both working professionals and students can cultivate insights about the tourism industry, adapting to rapid changes and demands.

Programs for Professionals

• - Skill enhancement and retraining support for current tourism employees.
• - Assistance for those looking to switch to a career in tourism.

Programs for University Students

• - Support for domestic and international internship opportunities aimed at students aspiring to excel in global roles in tourism.
• - Career development assistance for students pursuing employment opportunities in the tourism sector.

Upcoming Launch of 'Future Tourism Academy'

Scheduled from January to March 2026

1. Programs for Working Professionals: 'Future Tourism Academy for Working People'
- Target Audience: Employees in small to medium-sized inns and travel agencies.
- Features:
- A 2-day basic course for foreign staff on Japanese business communication, hospitality, and disaster management, held in Tokyo.
- A 1-day practical course focused on crisis management and safety protocols for employees at accommodation facilities, also in Tokyo.
- Skill enhancement seminars for travel agencies, including basic courses on domestic/international group travel and counter sales (details to be announced).

2. Programs for Career Starters: 'Future Tourism Academy for College Students'
- Features enhanced learning experiences tied to internships, including:
- Pre-journey seminars focused on intercultural understanding and hospitality skills for students preparing for overseas internships in Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Hawaii, and more.
- Preparation courses for those aiming for internships at domestic accommodation facilities, covering service skills and engagement in the hospitality sector.
- Post-internship reflection sessions supported by career consultants to assist with career development.

In the 2025 fiscal year, these programs will be introduced on a trial basis, moving into more robust offerings in 2026.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, JTB College NEXT plans to expand its program offerings while aligning with the Japan Tourism Agency's focus on developing talent in the industry. New initiatives will emerge to support individuals eager to contribute to local revitalization through tourism, including on-site training tailored to meet the needs of municipalities and tourism-related businesses.

About the Institution

The International Culture Academy aims to foster the learning and growth of a diverse range of individuals, from students at vocational schools to professionals. It seeks to establish a new model of vocational education that prepares individuals for the evolving demands of the tourism industry while supporting the sustainable growth of tourism and local communities.

Contact Information

International Culture Academy
JTB Tourism Business College NEXT Preparation Office
Location: Higashi-Ikebukuro 3-2-12, Toshima, Tokyo
Phone: 03-5944-5255
Email: [email protected]
Website: JTB College NEXT