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Japan Mobility Show 2025: Sustainability and Alternative Fuels at the Forefront of Innovation [MICE News]

On Wednesday, October 29, Japan Mobility Show 2025 kicked off at the Tokyo Big Sight. Japan’s largest automotive trade fair, the Mobility Show showcases the latest innovations in all things that move, from cars, trucks and buses, to the personal mobility devices of the future. Every hall of the Big Sight is filled to the brim with vehicles of all shapes and sizes, and there is a buzz of excitement flowing through the venue.
Wednesday was the opening press day, and members of the media had the first look at the unveiling of a multitude of world premieres. Reporters from MICE news outlet POP Inc. explored the show floor in order to learn more about the newest trends.

Tokyo Future Tour 2035 offers a glimpse into our lives 10 years from now. Personal mobility is expected to major role in our relationships with city living moving forward. Focusing on improved accessibility for all people, LIFEHUB Inc. is demonstrating the ingenuity of their “AVEST” electric wheelchair. AVEST is able to ascend stairs with ease thanks to LIFEHUB’s original “crawler system.” This system utilizes tracked treads on the underside of the chair that can smoothly climb steps and traverse uneven surfaces. Additionally, thanks to an ability that automatically controls the AVEST’s balance so that the user does not topple out of their seat, as well an obstacle sensor that warns of objects in the chair’s path and can even engage an emergency brake, the AVEST wheelchair provides safety measures that give users unparalleled peace of mind. AVEST is the next step for LIFEHUB as they work to fulfill their goal of creating a completely barrier-free future.
LIFEHUB homepage: https://www.lifehub.co.jp/home-en.html

Mobility is not only a factor in cities, however. It influences the way we interact with nature as well. Mitsubishi Fuso is using the Japan Mobility Show as an opportunity to promote their NOMADPro camper. What sets the NOMADPro apart from the other RVs at the show is the fact that the right wall of the truck can unlatch like a gull-wing door, opening up the living space to the outdoors. This feature allows the usually small space of a camper to become incredibly more spacious, and it also doubles the available floor area. The NOMADPro contains all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping trip, including a folding bed, an induction stove, a private shower room, and even a mounted TV screen. The camper is perfect for those who want to bring more nature into their everyday lives.
Fuso homepage: https://www.mitsubishi-fuso.com/en/

In order to connect more with nature, we must first protect it. One of the main attractions at car manufacturer Izusu’s booth is their “ELF EV” 100% electric-powered garbage truck. While the world progresses further and further with the transition to sustainable fuels, many companies face challenges that come with the change. In the case of deploying a fleet of electric vehicles, private chargers are required to be installed and electric battery condition may worsen over time. Isuzu promises to help resolve these issues by creating an optimal strategy for each customer.
Furthermore, the ELF garbage trucks are renowned for benefitting the communities in which they work. Electric vehicles are naturally quieter than gas vehicles, and the ELF even has a quiet loading mechanism so as to not disturb residents. In addition, the truck gives off no emissions which promotes clean and healthy air. And amazingly, the ELF is even helpful in natural disaster situations. The high-voltage battery can be used to supply power to household electrical appliances in order to keeps lights on or to heat water.
Isuzu homepage: https://www.isuzu.co.jp/world/

Hydrogen is another alternative fuel that is a prominent topic throughout the Japan Mobility Show. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines is going above and beyond this trend with their “Wind Hunter” hydrogen production and supply vessel. The Wind Hunter creates, stores, and transports hydrogen energy by harnessing the power of offshore wind. As the ship is being propelled by wind in its sails, the resistance force of the water activates an energy generation turbine that produces the hydrogen, refines it, and subsequently puts it in storage. At times when the wind is not strong enough, the previously-stored hydrogen powers an electric propeller, therefore making the ship entirely self-sufficient. Mitsui aspires to expand the reach of hydrogen energy in order to create a worldwide hydrogen supply chain.
Wind Hunter homepage: https://www.mol-service.com/en/services/low-carbon-decarbonized-business/wind-hunter

Starting on Friday, October 31, Japan Mobility Show 2025 will open to the general public. The show will run until Sunday, November 9, and high school students and children can attend for free.

Tokyo Game Show 2025: SEGA, Bandai Namco, LEVEL 5 Unleash All-new Gaming Content at Makuhari Messe [MICE News]

From Thursday, September 25 to Sunday, September 28, Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2025 was held at the Makuhari Messe. Renowned as Japan’s largest video game exhibition, TGS showcased the latest releases and unveiled the upcoming titles for video game franchises of every imaginable genre and scale. Selling out tickets completely on both of the general public days, a total of 263,101 gaming enthusiasts flocked to the venue for the chance to be the first to try their hands at the newest games. TGS was alive and vibrant throughout all areas with everything from massive AAA publishers holding large-scale presentations featuring gaming celebrities, to solo indie developers connecting one-on-one with visitors. Complete with a wide array of live programming, TGS offered something for every gamer no matter their preference. Reporters from Japanese MICE news outlet POP Inc. were on the scene to investigate the latest trends in gaming.

SEGA and Atlus fired on all cylinders this year with the quality of their lineup and the majesty of their exhibits. Leading the charge was the newly-released “Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds,” which had already started making waves in the gaming world. The latest entry in the popular series, “Crossworlds” puts a twist on the classic Sonic Racing format by implementing a multiverse aspect. Characters not only race through various worlds from SEGA all-star titles, but they now can warp between these worlds mid-race. In addition, all-new unprecedented crossovers have been announced featuring characters and tracks from the Mega Man, Minecraft, and even Spongebob Squarepants franchises. Visitors lined up in droves to playtest the collab racers, some of which who had yet to be released.

Continuing the trend of world premiere demos, Bandai Namco offered gamers the first chance to play their upcoming ball-rolling adventure, “Once Upon A Katamari.” The first entry in the beloved Katamari Damacy series in 14 years, “Once Upon” hails the return of the Prince of All Cosmos as he is once again tasked with rolling up all sorts of objects to help rebuild the night sky. This time, however, the Prince must travel back in time, from the age of the dinosaurs, to the Wild West, to ancient Japan, and beyond. Also, for the first time ever, “Once Upon A Katamari” introduces an online multiplayer mode, in which 4 players can compete in “KatamariBall” to determine who is the greatest roller of them all.

Building on the momentum from last year, LEVEL 5 presented a brand-new demo for their upcoming title, “Professor Layton and the New World of Steam.” Players had the chance to experience Professor Layton’s arrival in Steam Bison, the bustling industrial capital of the USA, as well as to solve several new puzzles. The demo concludes with Layton’s rendezvous with Luke, his apprentice, when the pair find themselves in a high-speed chase with a band of suspicious characters. The cliffhanger left players itching to discover how the story will develop, and it garnered much excitement for the upcoming release, which was announced to have been pushed back to 2026.
Furthermore, “INZAUMA ELEVEN: Victory Road,” the newest game in the popular soccer franchise, was also available for playtesting at TGS. Players could learn crucial soccer skills such as passing, guarding the goal, and stealing the ball and then apply this knowledge during an actual match versus a rival team. Special attacks and other fantasy elements made for a thrilling experience.

In the indie area, Fruitbat Factory, an independent localizer and publisher that focuses on Japanese games, displayed their lineup of published titles. Prominently featured was one of their most iconic games, “100% Orange Juice,” an online multiplayer luck-based board game in which players roll dice to determine the outcome of each and every encounter as they race to gather stars and defeat enemies in order to surpass their opponents. Originiall released in 2013, the game continues to receive constant updates and character DLCs and boasts a loyal playerbase. At TGS, Fruitbat Factory promoted yet another playable character to be added, bringing the roster to a grand total of 95.
Additionally, visitors had the opportunity to try the publisher’s next upcoming title, “ManaCollect 2.” The sequel to the original real-time competitive Minesweeper puzzle game, “ManaCollect 2” improves and expands upon the combat system’s offensive and defensive tactics.

One popular category at this year’s TGS involved games that are played with unorthodox controllers. Amongst the ubiquitous normal controllers and keyboards, unusual controllers drew a lot of attention in the in-person exhibition setting.
For example, a large crowd gathered around the Yamamu Games booth to watch challengers attempt to beat a level in “BB Adventure,” a game controlled by a balance ball. Players sit on the ball and bounce up and down in order to move the ball-shaped protagonist through an obstacle course. Cheers resounded among the spectators as they rooted for the challengers, and all parties en.
Developed by Bippinbits, “PVKK: Planetenverteidigungskanonenkommandant” brought a real-life cockpit modelled after that which controls the planetary defense cannon in the game. Players flipped switches, pulled levers, and rotated wheels on the giant cockpit control panel while attempting to fire the cannon at incoming enemy ships.
Students from Hokkaido Information University showcased several games with unorthodox controllers that delighted attendees. One featured a whole pizza impaled by a stick that was used to maneuver in-game pizzas. In another game, players swung around a baton in order to conduct an orchestra. Both controllers challenged players at first but were satisfying to learn how to use skillfully.

Next year’s Tokyo Game Show will be held over a 5-day period for the first time ever, running from Thursday, September 17 to Monday, September 21, 2026 at the Makuhari Messe.

 

Tokyo International Gift Show Autumn 2025: 100th Edition of Japan’s Largest Trade Fair [MICE News]

On Wednesday, September 3, Japan’s largest trade show, the Tokyo International Gift Show, had an impressive opening at the Tokyo Big Sight. Held twice a year in spring and in autumn, this September marks the commemorative 100th edition of the event. The success that has granted the Gift Show its long life is once again on display. Tokyo International Gift Show Autumn 2025 features over 3,000 exhibiting companies from across the globe, and the booths fill every available space in the Big Sight, alongside the concurrent 18th LIFE x DESIGN show, the 20th LIVING & DESIGN total interior show, and the 38th Gourmet Show. Reporters from Japanese MICE media outlet POP Inc. spoke with exhibitors to learn about the newest products hitting the market.

Featuring a powerful international presence, the Gift Show hosted a plethora of regional pavilions, such as Taiwan, Vietnam, India, and Hawaii. The Guam Pavilion in particular, however, stands out amongst the competition thanks to its high-quality products and feeling of solidarity between exhibitors.
The Guam Pavilion is co-sponsored by the Western United States Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA) and the Guam Economic Development Authority (GEDA). WUSATA offers programs that support newly exporting companies that produce unique value-added products. Companies chosen to promote their wares in Japan are those whose culinary products cater to the niche of Japanese “omiyage” culture, or small souvenirs to be given as gifts. Furthermore, the Tokyo International Gift Show was specifically elected over similar food exhibitions due to the higher quality items being presented at its Gourmet Show.

The Coconut Tree Company produces coconut candy that is entirely handmade from locally-grown ingredients. These spherical candies come in fashionable gift boxes which are perfect for sharing. Several flavors are offered, and Operations Manager Sash Santos recommended the new wasabi flavor, which has been introduced to intrigue the Japanese palette.
Coconut Tree Company Instagram: @thecoconuttreecompany
Local Jerk Guam, LLC is introducing its dinanche chili paste, a cuisine unique to the Chamorro culture in Guam. Composed of Donne Sali peppers mixed with hand-cut vegetables and coconut milk, Local Jerk makes a spicy and tangy dinanche that pairs great with marinades, soups and all kinds of meat and seafood. Similar to The Coconut Tree Company, all ingredients are sourced from Guam farmers, and even the jars and packaging are manufactured locally.
Local Jerk Guam homepage: https://www.localjerkguam.com/

Hailing from another island in the same ocean, Kuleana Rum Works is a Hawaii-based organic rum producer that has won a multitude of awards. In particular, 3 of the 4 rums available for tasting at their Gift Show booth received gold medals for best in their class at this year’s World Spirits Competition. Pacific Regional Sales Director Art Deakins spoke on the company’s choice to attempt to penetrate the Japanese market. He noted that there is a want of high-end rums in Japan, and considering that Kuleana rums are a great fit for whiskey and Scotch whiskey drinkers, he believes the brand is perfect to introduce the whiskey-loving Japanese populace into the world of rum. Furthermore, participation in the Gift Show was recommended to Kuleana by the Hawaii County government itself. As of now, the rum is only available in high-end department stores such as Takashimaya, added Deakins, so the next step is to break into restaurants and cocktail bars in order to reach a wider audience.
Kuleana Rum Works homepage: https://kuleanarum.com/

Continuing on to South Korea, Handrix is developing an original whiskey aging bottle. Featuring two distinct oak sticks that achieve either a toasting or a charring flavor, users simply pour their desired whiskey into the Handrix bottle, insert the aging stick, and seal the cap. After allowing one to three weeks depending on the blend, the whiskey will be reborn with a deeper flavor and scent. Additionally, the manufacturer also produces whiskey chilling stones that come in two options: natural granite stones that preserve flavor and stainless steel stones that quickly chill drinks.
Handrix crowdfunding page: https://www.wadiz.kr/ja/funding/349812

Based in southern China, Guangzhou Diller Daily Necessities Co., Ltd. manufactures high-quality reusable water bottles for every occasion. Their gift show booth focuses on their popular Diller bottle line, which consists of insulated water bottles, tumblers, coffee mugs, and food jars, kids water bottles, plastic and glass water bottles, and sports bottles. All these are made from premium materials and created through eco-friendly production that minimizes environmental impact. Product Manager Phoebe Lee explained that Diller bottles also offer complete customization: anything from printing of logos for corporate promotion to entirely new bottle designs based off customers’ specifications.
Diller homepage: https://www.dillerbottle.com/

The 100th Tokyo International Gift Show will run until Friday, September 5, and admission is free of charge to all industry professionals.

Tokyo Toy Show 2025: Fun and Learning Abounds at Japan’s Largest Toy Exhibition [MICE News]

On Thursday August 28, International Tokyo Toy Show 2025 kicked off at the Tokyo Big Sight. As the largest toy exhibition in Japan, the Tokyo Toy Show supports the country’s massive 2 trillion-yen toy industry, which continues to grow consistently year by year. Japan has given rise to some of the world’s most notable children’s franchises, such as Pokemon and Hello Kitty, and ubiquity of these characters is reflected in an abundance of collaborations among a wide array of toys.

Despite the opening day being a “Business Day” for professional visitors only, attendees could not help but express their excitement in getting to test out the latest toys. Everywhere one looked, visitors were playing with Beyblade battling tops, squishable building blocks, and even gravity-defying magnetic train sets. The energy in the venue was absolutely palpable. Japanese MICE media outlet POP Inc. spoke with exhibitors to learn more about these new products.

LONPOS Braintelligent Co., Ltd. creates brain-bending puzzle games for all ages. These puzzles challenge players to complete patterns in 2D and 3D space using oddly shaped pieces. At the Tokyo Toy Show, visitors are able to playtest several of these games, the most popular of which is the “LONPOS Clever Creator.” To solve Clever Creator puzzles, various building blocks consisting of arrangements of spheres must be positioned in order to correctly complete a 2D plane or to construct a 6-layer pyramid corresponding to a selected puzzle. The game contains a total of 303 puzzles at varying difficulty levels, and the “normal” puzzles are already fairly challenging. LONPOS is based in Taiwan, and the manufacturer is looking forward to capitalizing on their first Toy Show appearance in order to connect with Japanese buyers.
LONPOS homepage: https://www.lonpos.cc/

Beverly Enterprises Inc. is a jigsaw puzzle manufacturer that specializes in classic jigsaw puzzles, children’s puzzles, and 3D crystal puzzles. Their Tokyo Toy Show booth features their charming “Acsta Pop” acrylic stand puzzles. Acsta Pops expand on the concept of acrylic stands, which have become increasingly popular in recent years, by transforming them into jigsaw puzzles constructed with tiny 15mm pieces. These pieces fit snugly so that the stands can be displayed vertically, and they stick together even when lifted. A new collaboration featuring Hello Kitty and friends is planned to be released in November 2025, and other Ascta Pops portraying Disney characters, Winnie the Pooh, and Rilakkuma are already available in stores.
Beverly Enterprises homepage: https://be-en.co.jp/

Robotics education company Anhui YODO Intelligent Robot Co., Ltd. promotes methods of teaching STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) to children by focusing on practice learning. YODO’s booth demonstrates the unique characteristics of their interlocking plastic bricks. What separates these from similar construction toys such as LEGO, explained Sales Director Amanda Wong, is their distinctive micro-motion. Each set incorporates various types of movement, as well as lighting fixtures. The average set contains over 2,000 pieces and takes approximately 8 hours to complete, and the electronic elements can offer an opportunity for children to learn about robotics through hands-on experience. YODO hails from Huainan City in China, and the company hopes to introduce its products to the Japanese populace during the Toy Show.
YODO homepage: https://www.yodorobot.com/index_TPL.php

Eyesun Technology Co., Ltd. is displaying its “Eyesun Cam” instant camera. These cameras are extraordinary in the fact that they print on rolls of paper as opposed to film. Depending on the model, Eyesun Cams can print over 60 pictures per roll either in black and white, in full color, or in a color specified by an added filter. Compared to the recent popularity boom of Polaroid cameras, Eyesun provides a cheaper and more accessible alternative to take analog photos. Furthermore, Eyesun markets itself as an outlet for children to express their artistic creativity through photography.
Eyesun Cam homepage: https://www.globalsources.com/eyesun.co

On the opening day, the largest and most lively booth was that belonging to Bandai Co., Ltd. and Bandai Spirits Co., Ltd. The manufacturer is showcasing hot new products from some of its most popular toy lines. Front and center, Bandai features gear from the upcoming superhero drama “Kamen Rider Zeztz,” including replicas of the transformation belt and sword used by the main hero.
The beloved Tamagotchi digital pets will begin another fun adventure in the brand-new “Tamagotchi Paradise” toy series. These electronic gadgets incorporate a novel “Zoom Dial” that can be used to view the Tamagotchi from its cellular level all the way to outer space. Additionally, a “docking” feature allows two Tamagotchis to communicate through a physical connection between devices. Docking can even enable them to start a family together.
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the world-renowned Super Sentai series, Bandai is releasing a special line of toys featuring the robots that appear in the currently airing “No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger” drama. These toys can transform to become tools that fit in the palm of the hand.
For each franchise, visitors were enthralled by staff members’ heated presentations on the individual charms of each toy, and the whole booth was bathed in sights, sounds, and voices that combined to form an immersive experience.
Bandai homepage: https://www.bandai.co.jp/en/

The second and final Business Day at Tokyo Toy Show 2025 will be held on Friday, August 29. On Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31, the event will be open to the public, and children middle-school-aged and younger can enter free of charge.

Maintenance & Resilience TOKYO 2025: Industry Problem Solving at Forefront of Exhibition [MICE News]

On Wednesday, July 23, Maintenance & Resilience TOKYO 2025 opened alongside concurrent TECHNO-FRONTIER 2025 at the Tokyo Big Sight. Maintenance & Resilience focuses on those two aspects as they are related to industry in terms of “preparing for and responding to problems and risks in advance.” The first day witnessed the attendance of over 8,000 professionals from a variety of sectors such as manufacturing, construction, civil engineering, and transportation. Spanning the venue’s East and West halls, every aisle was filled with the commotion of exhibitors demonstrating machinery, conducting seminars, and partaking  in business negotiations with buyers. Reporters from Japanese MICE news outlet POP Inc. spoke with participants to discover the newest trends.

Shandong Hightop Group is a large-scale engineering and construction equipment manufacturer that operates 50,000 square meters of factory space and employs over 500 laborers. They currently export to various regions of Europe, North America, South America, and Southeast Asia and also manage overseas warehouses around the world. Hoping to utilize Maintenance & Resilience TOKYO as an opportunity to expand into the Japanese market, the group is focusing their exhibit on their current hottest product: a remote-controlled crawler lawn mower.
Shandong Hightop’s lawn mower is easily operated with a handheld remote control, and the mower at the booth demonstrated its quick and precise turning and maneuvering. The crawler lawn mowers come in a diverse array of designs and can be either entirely electric, gas hybrid, or diesel hybrid. Furthermore, the Hightop Group also manufactures a line of mini hydraulic excavators that allow for easy substitution of attachments, including a log splitter, an auger, and a forklift.
Shandong Hightop Group homepage: https://hightopmachinery.com/

Tesla is presenting a special exhibit featuring a disassembled CyberTruck. The CyberTruck is an electric vehicle that was originally released by Tesla in 2023 and has garnered much attention in the United States. The truck implements a smorgasbord of high-end technologies that are expected to influence the future of the electric vehicle industry.
The TECHNO-FRONTIER exhibit presents a disassembled CyberTruck with each individual part disconnected and displayed for visitors to view. In the center of these parts sits the truck itself, split down the middle lengthwise and showing the complete outer surface on one half and the disemboweled inner mechanisms on the other. Attendees have been very intrigued by the exhibit, and many have singled out and discussed particular technologies in detail.
CyberTruck homepage: https://www.tesla.com/cybertruck

When you see a completely vertical pole towering over the stands at more than twice their height, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the exhibit of Kuusatsu Giken Inc. At Maintenance & Resilience TOKYO, the manufacturer is proudly demonstrating its “Taorenbo”, or Stick That Won’t Fall. As the name implies, Taorenbo is a stick that automatically balances itself in order to stay vertical. Using drone technology, four propellers in the power unit at the top of the stick cover 360 degrees and push back against the direction in which gravity foolishly attempts to pull it. Said unit is attached to a rod that can extend up to 11.5 meters long. Taorenbo can even be remote-controlled in order change its tilt angle or induce circular movement.
Experts at the Kuusatsu Giken booth offered several recommended uses for Taorenbo. First, by attaching a camera, it can be used for filming and photography, which is especially in advantageous in areas where flying drones is not possible. Further practical applications include advertising displays, closeup observation of high places such as solar panels and telephone poles, and research with data collection instruments. Finally, Taorenbo can be used just for fun, considering its existence as a “mysterious stick” that produces a “sense of wonder.” How you use Taorenbo is entirely up to you.
Taorenbo homepage: https://www.multicopter.co.jp/taorenbo

By far the liveliest area of the trade fair is the Heat Wave Countermeasures Exhibition. With temperatures rising to record highs in Japan this summer, the biggest topic on people’s minds is how to beat the heat. The Heat Wave Countermeasures Exhibition gathers companies presenting unique and innovative solutions to combat overheating. Products popular with attendees include powerful industrial fans, hydrating electrolyte tablets, and stylish air-conditioned jackets.
Suns Co., Ltd. is exhibiting their line of fan-attached clothing, which includes short-sleeved jackets, long-sleeved jackets, vests, and overalls. While many manufacturers are focusing mainly on work uniforms, Suns also creates fashionable designs for everyday use.
Suns Co., Ltd. homepage: https://sun-s.work/

Maintenance & Resilience TOKYO 2025 will run until Friday, July 24 at the Tokyo Big Sight. Admission is free of charge for industry professionals.

JFEX 2025: Major Success for Overseas Food & Beverage Producers [MICE News]

From July 9 to 11, Japan International Food & Beverage Expo (JFEX) 2025 was held at the Tokyo Big Sight alongside the “Japan’s Food” Export Fair and the newly launched Food LogiX International Food Logistics Expo. Over 600 exhibitors from every corner of Japan and across the globe gathered together to showcase the latest innovations in food and beverages. Enticing smells of freshly cooked cuisine wafted through the halls as visitors taste-tested everything from scallops to soy sauce, and from gelato to gin.
In addition to the “Food & Beverage” moniker, the “International” aspect of JFEX was also a large focus of the event. Exhibitors and buyers alike actively worked towards increasing their overseas sales channels. Reporters from Japanese MICE news outlet POP Inc. spoke with participants to determine the success of these endeavors.

TianXiaHong (TXH) Chili Food is a Chinese manufacturer of chili sauces for daily consumption. They offer several other varieties of chili pepper products as well, such as raw materials for manufacturers, all of which are crafted from organic peppers grown at a farm nearby their processing plant. THX’s exhibit at JFEX proudly proclaimed the company’s passion for their chili peppers, and especially their chili sauces.
Featuring a wide array of flavors, these sauces contain all sorts of natural ingredients, such as peanuts, sesame seeds, and even anchovies. What truly sets them apart from other chili sauces, however, is the inclusion of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). International Trade Development Manager Kevin Cheng explained that THX is the first ever manufacturer to incorporate TCM into their sauces, and they have secured a patent for this method in China. Cheng elaborated that most chili sauces can actually be damaging to the skin and throat, so TCM is intended to counteract these side effects. Different flavors of the TXH sauces are designed to support corresponding parts of the body, including the assisting the gastrointestinal tract and digestion, strengthening the brain, and enhancing immunity.

Furthermore, in order to accommodate an international audience, TXH chili sauces are relatively less spicy than the average Chinese sauce. Each jar also includes a heat level relayed in Scoville units, so consumers can easily find the right level for their palette.
JFEX 2025 was TXH Chilli Food’s first time participating at a Japanese trade fair, and Cheng is hoping that the exhibition will become their gateway into the Japanese market. He noted that TXH was able to form connections with both Japanese and Chinese distributors during the event, and the manufacturer is looking forward to subsequent business success.
TXH Chili Food’s homepage: http://www.tianxiahong.com

Volonte Corporation introduced their Comisario Ultra Premium brand of Mexican tequila. Comisario is aged in both American bourbon barrels and French cabernet barrels in an extensive process that creates an intricate flavor profile while still remaining smooth and easy to drink. CEO Grant Humphrey of MAD International Ltd., a Tokyo-based consulting company specializing in food and beverages, represented Volonte at JFEX 2025. MAD International has participated in over 50 trade fairs throughout Japan, and Comisario tequila is launching in the country for the first time. Humphrey extolled the benefits of JFEX as a place for conducting business negotiations, asserting that although the quantity of attendees may be smaller than other culinary exhibitions, the quality of individual visitors is high which leads to more valuable interactions.
Comisario’s homepage: https://tequilacomisario.com/

Hailing from South Korea, Boksoondoga Co., Ltd. exhibited their line of hand-brewed makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine. Though most popular makgeolli brands are fairly sweet, Boksoondoga’s signature variation is a surprising mix of sweet and sour sensations with a hint of yogurt flavor. This combined with carbonation gives the makgeolli a completely unique drinking experience. In addition, although it contains approximately the same alcohol content as beer, the alcohol flavor is negligible which may appeal to consumers who don’t normally prefer alcoholic beverages.
Riding on the wave of popularity of Korean culture in recent years, makgeolli has also increased in demand among the Japanese youth. As of JFEX 2025, Boksoondoga has been made available for purchase online for Japanese customers. The company is looking to capitalize on the favorable reactions of visitors in order to expand into physical locations in the future.
Boksoondoga’s homepage: https://en.boksoondoga.com/

Blowfish Tequila travelled across the Pacific from California, USA, to showcase their line of tequilas in Japan for the first time. Blowfish featured five signature tequilas, including the visually stunning “Indigo,” which is colored with butterfly pea flower extract. The standout star, however, was decidedly the Grand Reserva Extra Añejo, an exquisite blend of rich flavors that is perfect for an after-dinner drink.
Spearheading the company’s foray into Japan, Chief Operating Officer Adam Prangè explained that Blowfish’s plan to search for local distributors had been extremely successful, and he cited negotiations with representatives of local restaurants, liquor stores, and even grocery stores. Prangè is hopeful that the prominence of the blowfish in Japan, commonly know as the “fugu,” will benefit the promotion of the brand. Similarly, he expects that Blowfish’s tequila soda canned cocktails will integrate seamlessly into the country’s prevalent canned alcohol culture.
Blowfish Tequila’s homepage: https://blowfishtequila.com/

Not only did JFEX feature foreign countries setting their sights on Japan, but Japanese companies equally took advantage of the opportunity to entice buyers attending from overseas. Hokkaido Development Group Inc. spreads the charm of Hokkaido by promoting their local goods. A popular item among visitors to their booth was the “Milk Baton” matcha-flavored sandwich cookies. The cookies contain an original white chocolate filling that delicately balances the sweetness and bitterness of the two main ingredients.
As of JFEX 2025, Hokkaido Development Group mainly exports to 8 countries: China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, and Canada. This year’s exhibition offered them an excellent opportunity to advertise to a large number of international buyers, and the group hopes to expand their distribution network to more countries via the connections made at the event.
Hokkaido Development Group homepage: https://www.hdgroup.jp/en/

The next Japan International Food & Beverage Expo will be held from December 3 to 5, 2025, at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture. Next summer’s edition is scheduled for June 24 to 26, 2026, again at the Tokyo Big Sight. Attendance is free for all industry professionals with pre-registration required.

International Tourism Trade Show 2025 – Tourism Industry Makes Waves at Tokyo Big Sight [MICE News]

From June 25 to 27, International Tourism Trade Show (iTT) 2025 was held at the Tokyo Big Sight. Featuring two specialized exhibitions, the Tourism Marketing Expo and the International Wellness Tourism Expo, key players from all corners of the tourism and accommodation industries flocked to the event. International participation was greatly favored, and the venue implemented an international visitor lounge that welcomed the multitude of visitors who traveled from all across the globe in order to participate. Amidst a general air of positive reception, reporters from Japanese MICE news outlet POP Inc. uncovered the latest trends.

Exstan Human Resource provides services for hiring and supporting foreign laborers who wish to enter into the Japanese workforce, as well as for connecting them with Japanese companies. Exstan covers the entire employment process from recruitment to assistance in visa acquisition to support of workers after hiring. At its iTT 2025 booth, the company was actively expounding upon its “noborder” online tool that capitalizes on Exstan’s expertise in handling resident status applications. Employers can use noborder to neatly manage all of the documents and information necessary for their employee’s visa renewals.
Exstan representatives further added that supporting foreign workers is becoming increasingly beneficial in combatting the current labor shortage in Japan.
Exstan’s homepage: https://exstan-hr.studio.site/

The LEX Institute, formerly known as the Institute for Language Experience, Experiment & Exchange, showcased the cultural programs it organizes through its “Hippo Family Club.” The main focus of the institute’s iTT exhibit was its multilingual nature camps. Popular with enthusiasts of all ages, four annual programs are offered throughout Japan, including a “deserted island” camp that teaches survival skills, as well as camps in China, Indonesia, and Mongolia. Estefania Mares Medrano of the Transnational Division explained that a wide range of languages are spoken freely during the programs. Since she is proficient Spanish, English, and Portuguese, for example, participants have the opportunity to practice their skills in these languages in a fun and relaxed environment that is conducive to growth. In addition, campers can also immerse themselves in the nature and culture of the locales.
LEX Institute’s homepage: https://www.lexhippo.gr.jp/

eMoBi Co., Ltd. drew attention at iTT for the eye-catching design of its 3-wheeled electric vehicle. Approximately the size of a smart car, the vehicle can seat up to 3 people. With a battery charge that last for 4 to 5 hours, eMoBi promotes the EV as a sustainable mobility solution that offers a fresh way to sightsee and go on adventures. The eMoBi EVs are currently available to rent in several areas throughout Japan for anyone with a driver’s license, and they are most popular near the beaches of Okinawa and Kamakura, where riders can enjoy cool sea breezes blowing through the open-air concept.
Visitors at iTT were able to test drive the vehicle on a course inside the venue. The EV controls similarly to a motorcycle with acceleration and brakes connected to handlebars, and participants were impressed with how easy maneuvering was even for first timers.
eMoBi’s homepage: https://www.emobi.co.jp/company/en

Pocketalk, partnered with SoftBank Corp., is an AI-driven automatic pocket translator that is innovating the field of translation. Users simply hold the microphone button and speak into the device, and it immediately translates their speech into the desired language, which it then proceeds to read aloud. Pocketalk is compatible with over 74 languages and offers a 2-year SIM that allows unlimited use in over 170 countries worldwide. The translator is recommended for individuals traveling abroad, as well as business owners who accommodate international customers and wish to improve hospitality and raise customer satisfaction.
For MICE participants, SoftBank In-bound Business Deputy Manager Yutaka Abe also recommended Pocketalk Conference. The software is specifically designed for real-time interpretation of conference speakers’ speeches, and it simultaneously shows what is being said and the corresponding translation side by side. This allows for attendees who speak multiple languages to be able to understand the same conference without need for individual human interpreters.
Pocketalk’s homepage: https://www.pocketalk.com/

After a resounding success, the next edition of the International Tourism Trade Show is expected to be held in summer 2026.

Title: Interior Lifestyle Tokyo 2025: Revolutionary Designs Delight Buyers [MICE News]

From June 18 to 20, Interior Lifestyle Tokyo, an international exhibition encompassing the entire interior design industry, was held at the Tokyo Big Sight. Established manufacturers and independent artists alike showcased revolutionary designs in tableware, furniture, home accessories, and textiles. Buyers from a wide variety of sectors were eager to determine the quality of products by touching, trying on, and even sitting upon them before conducting business negotiations. Furthermore, Interior Lifestyle Tokyo featured an abundance of international exhibitors, many of which congregated at the Italy and Latvia pavilions, as well as others from South and Southeast Asia. Japan’s leading MICE news outlet POP Inc. spoke exhibitors to discover the latest trends.

Okubo Enterprise Inc. introduced its new “Ishitote” line of decorative art pieces made from Aji stone, which is only found in a small, mountainous area of eastern Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. The mines on these lands have been owned and operated by the family of current CEO Kazuhiko Okubo for the past 400 years. Historically, Aji stone has mainly been used to sculpt gravestones and traditional stone lanterns, due to its resistance to weathering and its aptitude for delicate detailing.
Recently, CEO Okubo has been striving to communicate his passion for the Aji stone to a wider audience with the release of Ishitote. Ishitote stones serve no purpose, says Okubo, but they are pleasant to look at and calming to hold. Okubo hopes that the stones can make “loneliness a little lighter and joy a little brighter.” Participating as a designer at a trade fair for the first time, CEO Okubo was originally nervous about exhibiting at Interior Lifestyle Tokyo 2025, but he was elated to have received many positive reactions from attendees.
Okubo Enterprise homepage: http://www.oochouba.jp/index.html

Tadayasu Co., Ltd. was promoting its Samurai Bottle Helmet. As the name implies, the bottle cap-sized traditional kabuto helmets are modelled after famous Japanese historical figures, such as Oda Nobunaga, that turn any bottle into a fierce samurai. While on the surface, Bottle Helmets may simply seem like fun novelty items, Tadayasu pays great attention to detail to accurately depict each aspect of the armor while honoring the long history of Japanese craftsmanship. The great love and care dedicated to each helmet is unmistakable when viewed up close.
Tadayasu exhibited at Interior Lifestyle Tokyo as part of the TOKYO Teshigoto pavilion. TOKYO Teshigoto gathers artisans from the Kanto region who handmake original designs of traditional Japanese crafts and connects them with business partners who support distribution. This year’s pavilion featured over 30 manufacturers, who create everything from to sandals to kitchen knives to umbrellas.
Tadayasu Co., Ltd. homepage: https://www.tadayasu.shop/en/

Ame Art Products is produced by renowned flower artist Norihiko Kamei. The lineup features miniature “spot gardens” that are designed with the use of preserved flowers and represent fantastic mountain sceneries which “bring a sense of enrichment to the heart.” One popular variety at Interior Lifestyle is the “Keshifuku” flower arrangement, which is set inside a metamorphic rock that fits in the palm of your hand. Each Keshifuku style is paired with an aroma oil that acts as a diffuser. The aromas are intended to reproduce the fragrance of the wind as it blows across the tiny landscape.
Norihiko Kamei’s homepage: https://www.kameinorihiko.jp/en

Dates for the next edition of Interior Lifestyle Tokyo have yet to be announced at this time.

FOOMA Japan 2025: On the Forefront of Food Processing Technology [MICE News]

On Tuesday, June 10, FOOMA Japan 2025, the country’s top food processing technology expo, opened at the Tokyo Big Sight. Spanning the entirety of the venue’s 8 East exhibition halls, nearly 1,000 exhibitors are displaying cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of food manufacturing, processing, and preparation. On the first day alone, a total of 22,699 visitors, including 1,274 from abroad, excitedly viewed live machinery demonstrations and engaged in active business negotiations. Japan’s leading MICE news outlet, POP Inc., spoke with exhibitors to learn more about the newest trends.

Aperza Inc. provides online platforms for the manufacturing industry. At FOOMA Japan, the company is promoting its electronic catalog service. Media Growth Representative Shuichi Hirata explained that Aperza creates catalogs featuring their manufacturer customers’ products and then distributes these catalogs in a way that makes it easy for users to access. Subsequently, information is then gathered from users that engage with the catalogs, and Aperza consolidates the data and relays it to the customer. Other services offered include factory process visualization and analysis, which can be utilized to solve problems such as lack of knowhow regarding properly applying collected data.
Aperza homepage: https://www.aperza.co.jp/

Nakanishi Seisakusho is exhibiting a new design for its conveyor-style deep fryers. Most industrial fryers only fry food from the vat below and require the contents to be rotated in order during cooking. Nakanishi has solved this issue by implementing a mechanism that simultaneously rains oil down from above to evenly fry all sides in record time. During a live demonstration at the company’s booth, the spokesperson added that Nakanishi’s fryers also contain automatic scum removal systems, use less oil than conventional fryers, and reduce black smoke, which facilitates the cleaning process. In addition, the manufacturer has found much success through its automatic rice cooking systems, continuous rice washers, and various food slicers.
Nakanishi Seisakusho homepage: https://www.nakanishi.co.jp/en/

Morikawa Food Machinery Co., Ltd. specializes in original, made-to-order baking dies and branding irons. Buyers can choose from 4 base models and customize their equipment dependent on the variety of baked good, the desired level of automation, and the required production capacity. At FOOMA Japan 2025, Morikawa is demonstrating the output of its fully-automatic taiyaki (Japanese fish-shaped cakes) baking machine. The technology handles every step of the production process, from dough feeding, to cream filling, to baking, and finally to serving, and it churns out an impressive 10 taiyaki per minute. The delicious scent of freshly-baked pastries permeates throughout the venue, and a constant line of visitors can be seen eager to sink their teeth into a taiyaki right off the line.
Morikawa Food Machinery homepage: https://www.morikawa-fm.co.jp/english/index.htm

FOOMA Japan 2025 will continue to be held until Friday, June 13 at the Tokyo Big Sight. Admission is free of charge for all industry professionals.

JPCA Show 2025: Electronic Equipment Innovations at Tokyo Big Sight [MICE News]

On Wednesday, June 4, the 54th JPCA Show, Japan’s total solution exhibition for electronic equipment, kicked off at the Tokyo Big Sight. JPCA, the Japan Electronics Packaging and Circuits Association, is organizing the show in conjunction with several other widely renowned exhibitions, such as the 39th Micro Electronics Show and the 26th JISSO PROTEC Implementation Process Technology Show, in order to encompass the entirety of the electronics industry in one comprehensive event. On the opening day, over 16,000 visitors flooded the exhibition halls to discover the latest trends and innovations. Japan’s leading MICE news outlet POP Inc. spoke with exhibitors to determine the overall satisfaction of the event.

Walking the aisles of JPCA Show 2025, one can clearly see that the exhibition features a significant international presence. This mainly takes the form of manufacturers hailing from China. From Shanghai to Shenzhen, the entire industrial landscape of the Middle Kingdom has representation at this year’s event. And Chinese exhibitors are optimistic about their business prospects in the Japanese market.

Shenzhen Londian Wason Technology Co., Ltd. guides innovation in research and development, manufacturing, and sales in the new energy and electronic materials industries. At the JPCA Show, Londian Wason is featuring its selection of high-precision copper foils. Visitors can get up close and personal with a collection of PCB foils, including reverse treated copper, very low profile copper, and high-frequency double-sided copper. Overseas Sales Manager Wang Way explained that the JPCA Show is the company’s best opportunity to promote its products to Japanese buyers.
Londian Wason homepage: https://londianwason.com/enindex.html

 

PCBWay is a full-service electronics manufacturer that specializes in prototyping, assembly, and small-volume production of printed circuit boards. The company covers all areas of design, including schematic diagrams, algorithms, and 3D printing, and it offers a wide variety of PCB capabilities that can be customized to fulfill every customer’s needs. PCBWay has exhibited at JPCA Show for several years in a row, which has enabled them to create a significant customer base in the Japanese market. Representatives at the PCBWay booth specified that prominently displaying examples of PCBs at their booth has benefitted in drawing the attention of passing visitors.
PCBWAY homepage: https://www.pcbway.com/

 

Complex Micro Interconnection Co., Ltd. (CMI) manufactures flexible printed circuit boards, wires, and ultra-fine cables. CMI is based out of Taiwan, and it operates factories in Kunshan, China and Prachin Buri, Thailand. At JPCA Show 2025, the manufacturer is promoting the vast array of applications that its products support, such as wearable technology, smart home, virtual reality, and even military operations. Japan Sales Representative Scott Tsai elaborated on CMI’s participation, explaining that JPCA Show is the best exhibition in Japan for promoting electronic equipment. Furthermore, compared to the Taipei TPCA Show and the Shanghai CPCA Show, the Tokyo edition has received the highest praise. CMI is looking forward to a profitable turnout for the remainder of the exhibition.
Complex Micro Interconnection homepage: https://www.cmi.com.tw/

JPCA Show 2025 will continue until Friday, June 6 at the Tokyo Big Sight, and admission is free of charge for industry professionals.