Industrial Tourism Day

What Is Industrial Tourism Day?

October 25th is "Industrial Tourism Day" in Japan. It was established by the Culture Committee of the Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and commemorates the "Industrial Tourism Summit in Aichi and Nagoya," held in Nagoya on October 25th and 26th, 2001. The week that includes this day is also known as "Industrial Tourism Week."

Making the Manufacturing Floor a Travel Destination

Industrial tourism means visiting factories, workshops, industrial heritage sites, and corporate museums to learn about how things are made. Unlike sightseeing at historic spots or hot springs, its appeal lies in seeing production processes with your own eyes.

• Established by: the Culture Committee of the Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Origin of the date: the Industrial Tourism Summit held in Nagoya on October 25-26, 2001
• Industrial Tourism Week: the week including October 25th
• Typical destinations: working factories, artisan workshops, industrial heritage sites, and corporate museums

An Idea Born in the Manufacturing Hub of Nagoya

The Chubu region centered on Nagoya is one of Japan's leading manufacturing areas, home to industries such as automobiles, ceramics, and textiles. That background inspired the idea of treating industry itself as a tourism resource. Factory tours are full of discoveries for adults too, and can change the way you look at everyday products.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Look up factories or corporate museums near you that offer tours
• Talk about how your company's or partners' products are made
• Add local industrial heritage sites or workshops to your travel plans
• Find out where and by whom the products around you are made

Seeing How Things Are Made Changes How You See Work

Manufacturing sites are packed with years of ingenuity and skill. On October 25th, take a moment to appreciate the people and technology behind familiar products -- and consider adding a factory to your next day-off itinerary.