PREFACE For many years now, planners have the impression that Japan as too expensive and too far – both geographically and culturally for their groups to enjoy. But these perceptions are changing now. It takes only 9 hours from Los Angeles to Tokyo. Couple with the fact that budgetary concerns are forcing many international planners to  look for more affordable destinations, it is easy to see why Japan has emerged as a viable contender with its rich artistic culture, history, natural beauty and unique venues as well as its safe environment, high level of service and well developed transportation system. Japan offers 50 different international convention cities and each has its own charm, history and character. Tokyo “If New York never sleeps, then Tokyo never even dims the lights” Ben Brazel wrote recently in the Washington Post. Tokyo offers all the amenities of an international convention and incentive city along with numerous historic and cultural sites. You cannot miss the Imperial Palace and the Gardens as there is only one country in the world that still has an emperor !  The other favourite is the Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Temple and the Nakamise shopping street as well as Akihabara electronics shopping district and Tsukiji Fish Market. Take a day trip or a few days to Kyoto, home of 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The capital of Japan for  1,200 years. During that time, Buddhist temples, gardens and Shinto Shrines were built all over Kyoto. Ryouanji Temple (Rock Temple) was chose as one of the 28 “places in the world to see before you die” by Smithsonian Magazine. Visit Machiya and take classes in Japanese traditions including martial arts – Ninja Classes. Japan has three international airports that offer direct access from Continental USA. With the bullet train running form the far north to the west end of Japan and domestic air connections all over the country, access to local cities from all three international airports in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya has gotten easier. Let GTB share our view of a Japanese Incentive with you !   Joseph Chan President