Home to the Aichi Sky Expo and rich in cultural heritage, Aichi prefecture offers a unique destination for MICE experiences
Brought to you by Aichi Sky Expo
As planners search for more creative ways to make their events more memorable, Aichi Prefecture in Japan presents an attractive destination for hybrid events.
Strategically located in central Japan with excellent transport connectivity and home to Japan’s industrial manufacturing region, Aichi has large-scale venues and plenty of experiences to offer, whether it is an international conference or incentive trip.
On the global stage
The prefecture is home to Aichi Sky Expo, the fourth largest exhibition and convention centre in Japan with a total of 60,000m² of space.
The exhibition halls, which can be connected to create a total area of up to 50,000m², are among the largest in Japan. The facility also features 18 conference rooms in varying configurations, and a 36,000m² outdoor multipurpose area, all fully equipped with 5G technology and external kitchens.
Directly connected to Chubu Centrair International Airport by just a five-minute walk, Aichi Sky Expo is easily accessible by both domestic and international travellers. If coming by train, it takes only 28 minutes from Nagoya station.
Since its opening in August 2019, the modern, multipurpose venue has held more than 600 events, both B2B and B2C, including trade shows, e-sports, concerts, academic conferences or international conventions.
It recently hosted the Tourism EXPO Japan 2025 Aichi/Central Japan from September 25 to 28, which was attended by 127,677 visitors. Participants were first welcomed by the Mayor of Tokoname at a repurposed traditional climbing kiln turned restaurant, and could join excursions to Tokoname Pottery Footpath, INAX Live Museum, and Sawada Sake Brewery.
What sets the venue apart is not just its scale or modern building, but how well it can be integrated into a broader event experience. Once attendees step out of the convention venue, they are already positioned to explore one of Japan’s most culturally rewarding regions.
Extend the experience to Tokoname
A short transfer from Aichi Sky Expo takes you to Tokoname City, a coastal gem that offers an abundance of deep-rooted heritage, culinary experiences, and hands-on activities. Set along the scenic Ise Bay, Tokoname offers a refreshing change to the intensity of corporate meetings.
The city is most famous for its Tokoname-yaki pottery, a tradition that dates back over 900 years. Walking trails wind past traditional kilns, artisan studios, and ceramic-clad alleyways – perfect for slow-paced incentive tours or creative team-building workshops.
Visitors can arrange pottery-making sessions, heritage walks, or even customised gifts crafted by local artisans.
Complementing its artistic heritage, Tokoname is home to two historic sake breweries. These venues offer tastings and brewery tours and can also be used to host networking events or team building activities.
Tokoname also has a diverse food scene with a great number of local restaurants that specialise in regional cuisine using fresh ingredients from both the land and sea, as well as pubs and western restaurants.
Those looking to build a full-fledged incentive itinerary can also consider expanding further into the Chita Peninsula, of which Tokoname is a part. The region is renowned for its fermentation culture and sake brewing, with seven sake breweries, traditional miso makers and soy sauce producers.
Here, you can offer your guests more than just meals. Plan fermentation workshops, sake tastings sessions, or behind-the-scenes tours of traditional breweries.
Past events have successfully combined meetings at the Aichi Sky Expo with experiences in Tokoname.
In May, the Exhibition Venue Association Conference brought together around 100 participants where they had a packed programme. After productive board meetings and a general assembly at the Aichi Sky Expo, attendees embarked on a tour of the town. They explored the INAX Live Museum, wandered the historic Tokoname Pottery Footpath, and browsed Ceramall, capping off the experience with a fresh seafood lunch at a renowned restaurant, Muruha.
Another event in July by the Livestock Industry Subcommittee combined work and pleasure. A conference at the Aichi Sky Expo led into an evening of networking dinner at Maruha for around 100 delegates. The next day, participants savoured sake on a tasting tour at Sawada Sake Brewery before visiting the Tokoname Pottery Footpath and shopping at Ceramall. Lunch was served at a charming farmhouse restaurant offering local wines and farm-to-table cuisine.
Create programmes that engage the senses and foster genuine interpersonal connection in Aichi now. Visit Aichi Sky Expo and find out more about Tokoname’s gourmet experiences for event inspiration.
