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Japan MICE Newsletter by JNTO Kuala Lumpur office
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December Vol. 1 (2025-05) |
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Discover Shimane
- Japan's Hidden Gem for Incentive Travel -
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Introduction & Subsidy System |
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Nestled along the Sea of Japan coast, Shimane Prefecture is a lesser-known destination that offers authentic cultural experiences and serene landscapes.
Getting There from Malaysia:
- Via Tokyo - Fly from Haneda to Izumo Enmusubi Airport (approx. 90 minutes)
- Via Osaka - Fly from Itami Airport to Izumo Enmusubi Airport (approx. 50 minutes) or take a train to Matsue/Izumo
Support for Incentive Travel:
The Shimane Prefectural Government offers a subsidy system to encourage group tours. Eligible travel agencies can receive financial assistance for chartered buses and accommodations within Shimane, making it even more attractive for planners organizing large-scale incentive programs.
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Host Your Next Event at Yuushien Garden – Where Nature Meets Elegance
Looking for a venue that’s more than just an eating space? Yuushien Garden, located on the scenic Daikonshima Island in Shimane Prefecture - known as No.1 production of peony flowers in Japan - offers an unforgettable experience for incentive groups seeking a less crowded, nature-rich vibe. This garden provides a dining atmosphere that feels worlds away from the usual tourist spots.
The best way to enjoy Yuushien after meal? Take a leisurely stroll around the central pond, where seasonal flowers and traditional landscapes create a serene backdrop.
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For an extra wow factor, Yuushien offers seasonal events throughout the year. You may be able to enjoy watching mist rolls across the garden every 15 minutes, transforming the scenery into a dreamy wonderland. (Tip: In winter, the mist lingers above the pond for an even more magical effect!) Please check Yuushien's website for more details.
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When it’s time to dine, Yuushien has three restaurants ideal for group reservations:
- Shoubu – 94 pax (for groups with meal expenses above ¥4,000)
- Momiji – 222 pax
- Zen – 168 pax
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Experience Shimane’s Charm with Dojou Sukui Dance – A Delightful Folk Dance for Your Gala Dinner
Add a touch of authentic Shimane culture to your incentive travel program with the Dojou Sukui dance, a lighthearted and humorous folk performance that never fails to entertain. Perfect for gala dinners, this traditional dance brings laughter and local flavor to your evening. |
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What’s the story behind the dance?
The name “Dojou Sukui” means “Loach Scooping”, and the dance humorously portrays villagers trying to catch slippery loaches (a type of fish) from muddy rice fields. |
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Dancers wear quirky costumes—often including a towel wrapped around the head and a comical mask—while mimicking exaggerated scooping movements. The playful gestures and rhythmic music create a lively, interactive atmosphere that guests love. |
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And here’s a bonus: The Yasugibushi Preservation Society actively promotes this tradition and accepts requests to send performers to events across Japan to showcase the charm of the Dojou Sukui Dance. This means you can bring an authentic Shimane cultural experience directly to your gala dinner or incentive event!
This performance is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural immersion that showcases Shimane’s rural heritage and sense of humor. For incentive groups looking for a memorable gala dinner highlight, Dojou Sukui Dance is the perfect choice. |
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Horikawa Sightseeing Boat
(Wow Factor) |
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Explore Matsue’s Charm on the Horikawa Sightseeing Boat
Looking for a unique way to experience Shimane during your incentive trip? Hop aboard the Horikawa Sightseeing Boat in Matsue—a 50-minute cruise through the city’s historic canals that date back over 400 years. Glide past Matsue Castle, Edo-period streets, and serene forests while listening to stories from the boatman/boat-woman about local history and culture. |
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Each boat accommodates 10–12 passengers, and with several boats available, planners can easily arrange for larger-scale group reservations—just reach out to ensure a smooth experience for your incentive program. The course spans 3.7 km and passes under 17 charming bridges—and here’s the fun part: the boat’s roof lowers to fit under the lowest bridges, adding a playful and memorable twist to your journey! Along the way, you’ll enjoy seasonal scenery, from cherry blossoms in spring to lantern-lit nights in autumn. |
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Winter highlight: Cozy up with a kotatsu (heated table) on board, turning your cruise into a warm and unforgettable experience even on chilly days. |
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JNTO Incentive Travel Business Meeting:
Strengthening Japan-Malaysia Tourism Ties |
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On 11th November 2025 (Tuesday), the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) hosted the JNTO Incentive Travel Business Meeting at Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur, creating a vibrant platform for collaboration between Japan and Malaysia’s travel industry.
The event brought together 20 sellers from Japan and 24 buyers from Malaysia, fostering valuable discussions on the latest travel trends and market demands.
During his opening remarks, Mr. Kenichiro Ozaki, Executive Director of JNTO Kuala Lumpur Office, highlighted that from January to September 2025, 407,000 Malaysian visitors traveled to Japan—a 28% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Separately, the latest statistics announced on 18th November 2025 revealed that from January to October 2025, the number of Malaysian visitors to Japan reached 464,800 —an increase of 24.5% compared to the same period in 2024. If this positive trend continues, JNTO is optimistic about achieving its ambitious target of 600,000 Malaysian visitors to Japan by the end of 2025.
This milestone event underscores JNTO’s commitment to strengthening bilateral tourism ties and promoting Japan as a premier destination for incentive travel.
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Incentive Support Menu & Materials
by Local DMOs & CVBs in Japan |
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