The latest activities by JTTRI-AIRO, such as conducting research, holding seminars and collaborating parties in the field of transport and tourism.

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The 6th working group Meeting between Japan and Transport and Tourism Research Institute ASEAN – India Regional Office and Ministry of Tourism Thailand

On 11th - 13th Februay 2026 Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI), Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute ASEAN-India Regional Office (JTTRI-AIRO) togethrer with Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS) held The 6th working group  Meeting  in a topic of Mission and Role of DMOs.
In this sixth session, we will focus on Destination Management Organizations (DMOs), which serve as the central coordinating bodies for regional tourism development from a regional management perspective. We will introduce their current status, challenges, and initiatives, and engage in an exchange of views. For both Japan and Thailand - countries facing social issues such as aging populations and the need to revitalize regional economies - leveraging tourism as a driver for regional development is one of the most promising solutions.
The 6th working group Meeting between JTTRI-AIRO and Ministry of Tourism Thailand
11 - 12 February Technical Visit
11 February, Technical visit at Tanabe city Kumano Tourism Bureau
Lecture session led by Pioneering DMO in Japan
The Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau promotes tourism that protects local residents’ quality of life while leveraging the World Heritage “Kumano Kodo.” Focusing on sustainable, low‑impact travel and individual foreign visitors, it has improved multilingual infrastructure, created its own inbound-focused travel agency, and built global initiatives like the Dual Pilgrim program. These efforts have boosted tourism revenue to record levels while keeping most economic benefits circulating within the local community.
Technical Visit at Akizuno Garten
Lecture session led by Community Development in Akizuno
Akizuno has revitalized its rural community through resident‑led initiatives, starting with a farmers’ market and expanding into processing facilities, a farm‑to‑table restaurant, and green tourism using a renovated former school. By emphasizing community investment, sustainability, and local agriculture, the area created new economic opportunities and attracted both urban visitors and returning young families. This long-term effort has strengthened the local economy and reversed population decline.
Technical Visit at Kumano Hongu Taisha
Blessings of Rebirth and Life Transformation
Widely referred to as the “sacred place of rebirth (Yomigaeri)”, Hongu symbolizes spiritual renewal and a fresh start for pilgrims.
12 February Technical Visit at Kumano Hayatama Taisha
Blessings of Protection and Harmony
Hayatama, enshrining a husband-and-wife pair of deities, is associated locally with purification and harmonious ties—themes reflected in its sacred Nagi tree and riverside setting.
Technical Visit visit at Kumano Nachi Taisha
Blessings of Prosperity and Longevity
Nachi venerates Kumano Fusumi no Okami, traditionally honored as a deity of “musubi” (binding, connection); thus it is known as the “Shrine of Ties” where people pray for good relationships and wishes fulfilled, in the presence of the sacred Nachi Waterfall.
 
Technical Visit at Nankikushimoto Tourism Association
Lecture session led by Sustainable Tourism in Kushimoto
Kushimoto, the southernmost point of Japan’s mainland, offers exceptional natural environments—including the world’s northernmost coral reefs—and diverse tourism pillars such as scenic landscapes, marine activities, history, and a new private rocket launch site. Unique programs like tuna‑feeding at Japan’s first tuna‑farming site, local‑ecosystem aquariums, rare‑fish catch‑and‑release experiences, and regenerative, partnership‑based tourism reflect the town’s commitment to sustainability.
Technical Visit at Shirahama Onsen
Lecture session led by Shirahama Wellness & Hot Springs
Shirahama promotes a sustainable form of wellness tourism that combines physical rejuvenation through walking the Kumano Kodo with nourishment from local foods. The town enhances visitor circulation through cooperative efforts among hot‑spring inns, a prefecture‑wide stamp rally, and abundant public footbaths, creating an accessible and immersive onsen experience throughout the community.
Technical Visit at Nanki-Shirahama Airport
Lecture session led by Nanki-Shirahama Airport: A Private-Sector Driven DMO Model
Nanki‑Shirahama Airport, operated by a 100% privately funded company, functions as a unique DMO that revitalizes the wider southern Wakayama region. By leading tourism development, business activation, and digital transformation—while targeting high‑value travelers and workcation users—the airport integrates the entire regional value chain and has doubled passenger numbers through a private‑sector–driven, innovative DMO model.
13 February The 6th Working Group Meeting between JTTRI-AIRO and MOTS
Opening Remarks
Mr. SHUKURI Masafumi
Ms. Natthriya THAWEEVONG
Introduction of Participants
Japan Side Thai side
Guests of Honor
​​​​​​
Mr. MURATA Shigeki
Mr. Witchu VEJJAJIVA
Co-Chairs
Ms. Natthriya THAWEEVONG
Mr. OKUDA Tetsuya
Japan Participants
Mr. WADA Koichi
Mr. SAITO Takashi
Mr. TAKENAKA Masato
Mr. TOMITA Akihiro
Mr. KAMBE Masanori
Japan Participants (Online)
Ms. TADA Noriko
Mr. SASAKI Rintaro
Mr. NAKASUGI Hajime
Thai Participants
Mrs. Witchanee VUTHIPONGSE
Mr. Krida SRISOMWONG
Ms. Wassana PONGSAPAN
Ms. Supanich THIANSING
Asst. Prof. Supawadee PHOTIYARACH
Ms. Naranya BANG-OR
Presentation by Expert
Ms. TADA Noriko
Ms. Wassana PONGSAPAN
Mr. KAMBE Masanori
Ms. Supanich THIANSING
Discussion
Closing Remarks
Ms. Natthriya THAWEEVONG
Mr. OKUDA Tetsuya
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