Japan Set to Welcome Canadian Travel Professionals for the 2026 ACTA International Destination Conference in Yokohama

Published on February 16, 2026

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Japan is preparing to host the 2026 ACTA International Destination Conference in Yokohama, where Canadian travel professionals will gather to explore new opportunities, exchange insights, and deepen their connection to Japan’s vibrant tourism industry. This landmark event, scheduled for November 30 to December 4, 2026, marks the first time Japan will host this prestigious conference. Delegates will experience Japan’s dynamic destinations, from bustling cityscapes to tranquil cultural heritage sites, while engaging in business meetings that aim to promote Japan as a premier travel destination for Canadians. With this conference, Japan is set to strengthen its position as one of the leading global tourism markets, fostering long-term relationships with Canada’s top travel professionals.

Japan’s Strategic Push to Attract More Canadian Tourists

The ACTA International Destination Conference plays a crucial role in bringing together travel professionals to explore global tourism trends, build partnerships, and showcase the world’s top travel destinations. For Japan, this conference represents a major opportunity to increase visibility in the Canadian market—one of its most significant sources of inbound tourism. Canada ranks as the third-largest market for Japanese tourism, with nearly 690,000 Canadians visiting in 2025. The decision to host the conference is part of a broader strategy to build on Japan’s growing popularity and position it as a must-visit destination for Canadians.

With Canadian travelers consistently showing interest in Japan’s unique cultural and natural offerings, this conference provides an ideal platform to attract even more visitors. By showcasing the country’s diverse destinations—from the neon lights of Tokyo to the tranquil beauty of Kyoto—Japan will create new avenues for Canadian travel agencies to develop exclusive travel products tailored to the needs and desires of their clients.

Conference Highlights: Experience Japan Like Never Before

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Yokohama, the conference will offer delegates an array of immersive experiences designed to showcase the best of Japan. Destination inspections will take delegates beyond the usual tourist hotspots, allowing them to explore Japan’s lesser-known gems, such as the serene landscapes of Hokkaido, the cultural treasures of Kyoto, and the bustling urban energy of Osaka. These on-the-ground experiences will give Canadian travel professionals firsthand insights into Japan’s diverse tourism offerings, empowering them to create bespoke itineraries that cater to Canadian travelers’ interests.

In addition to destination tours, the conference will feature educational seminars, business meetings, and networking sessions. These activities will provide delegates with the latest information on travel trends, emerging markets, and industry innovations. Pre- and post-conference tours will extend the experience, offering participants additional opportunities to explore even more of Japan’s rich cultural landscape, and enhance their understanding of its evolving tourism offerings.

Shaping the Future of Japan-Canada Travel Relations

Japan continues to see steady growth in Canadian arrivals, with tourism numbers showing no sign of slowing down. As the country solidifies its position as a global tourism player, hosting the ACTA International Destination Conference will be a key moment in its ongoing strategy to enhance its appeal in the Canadian market. Canada is already Japan’s third-largest inbound market after the United States and Australia, and 2025 data shows a marked increase in the number of Canadians traveling to Japan. By hosting this event, Japan seeks to not only strengthen its relationship with Canadian tourism professionals but also to deepen its foothold in one of the most important outbound travel markets.

The conference will provide Canadian travel professionals with the tools and resources to promote Japan to their clients, highlighting the diverse and unique experiences that make Japan a compelling destination. By fostering stronger ties between Canadian travel professionals and Japanese tourism stakeholders, the conference will help to boost tourism from Canada for years to come.

Sponsorship Opportunities to Maximize Impact

As part of the event preparations, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) is offering a range of sponsorship packages for Japanese local authorities, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), and private-sector tourism stakeholders. These sponsorship opportunities allow Japanese tourism entities to showcase their offerings to a targeted group of influential Canadian travel professionals. Presentation slots, brand visibility through logo placements, and exposure at key conference events will further boost Japan’s tourism profile, ensuring that local businesses and attractions are well-represented.

For Canadian travel professionals, these sponsorships provide unique opportunities to form partnerships with Japanese stakeholders and access valuable content that will help shape future marketing and promotional campaigns for Japanese destinations. By strengthening Japan’s ties with key tourism players in Canada, the conference will support the development of new travel products and itineraries that showcase Japan’s unique charm and appeal.

Looking Ahead: Building a Lasting Legacy for Japan-Canada Tourism

The ACTA International Destination Conference in Yokohama marks a pivotal moment for Japan in its efforts to grow its tourism industry. The event provides a unique opportunity for Canadian travel professionals to build lasting relationships with Japanese tourism businesses, explore new destinations, and craft innovative itineraries that will drive tourism growth. Through continued collaboration, Japan hopes to maintain its upward trajectory as a leading destination for Canadian travelers.

As tourism demand from Canada continues to rise, Japan’s proactive efforts to market its offerings will ensure the country remains a top choice for Canadian travelers. The ACTA conference will be a major stepping stone in deepening Japan’s relationship with Canada, increasing the number of Canadian visitors, and positioning Japan as one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations.

Conclusion

With the ACTA International Destination Conference set to take place in Yokohama in 2026, Japan is gearing up for an exciting new chapter in its tourism strategy. This landmark event will bring together Canadian travel professionals and Japanese tourism leaders, offering a platform to showcase the best of what Japan has to offer. Through collaborative partnerships and strategic marketing, the conference will help boost Japan’s tourism profile, foster stronger ties with Canada, and pave the way for continued growth in the years ahead. As Japan prepares to host this global gathering, it is clear that Canada will continue to play an important role in Japan’s tourism future.