2016 has been a devastating year for Kyushu. In particular Kumamoto prefecture had experienced a major earthquake, aftershocks, typhoon and floods over the past months. Other areas such as Fukuoka and Oita had also been affected. Nevertheless, this did not stop major events, such as the Lions International Convention, to continue to hold their events in Fukuoka in 2016.

Located on the northeast of Kyushu, Nagasaki prefecture was less affected by these natural disasters. Nagasaki was one of the earliest Japanese port cities to be opened to Western culture, and it has been romanticized through mentions in Western operas, songs and novels etc. Apart from Western influence, there was also strong presence of southern Chinese culture due to migration in the past. This is evident from local snacks and cuisine that are similar to those from southern China.

Nagasaki was also the site of second atomic bomb explosion during World War II, causing much devastation in the city and the surrounds. The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum serves as a memorial to the event and reminds people of the destruction and deaths caused by nuclear weapons.

Such diverse cultures and rich history makes Nagasaki a good destination to consider for MICE groups. While there city still plays second fiddle to Fukuoka as a MICE destination, these is much potential given the interesting venue choices such the Nagasaki Brick Hall for conventions of up to 2,000 guests, ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel for mid-size business meetings, Garden Terrace Hotel for modern luxury accommodation and events, Glover Garden for unique outdoor reception, as well as nearby spa resort towns such as Unzen to unwind and relax. The International Cruise Center is within the city vicinity, providing much convenience to MICE groups on a cruise.

The city continues to develop new attractions, such as Hashima Island (also known as Gunkanjima or Battleship Island). It is an abandoned coalmine island that got its name due to its resemblance to a battleship when viewed from afar. This Unesco World Heritage Site was made famous by James Bond movie Skyfall in which a scene was shot on location here. Although an interesting site to visit, the ferry ride from Nagasaki is rather long, and there is nothing much to do there other than viewing the ruins. Perhaps it might have more potential when the authorities open this for theme dinners and team-building activities.

Nagasaki is striving to become a main MICE destination, and it is looking to year 2025 for upgrading of its MICE infrastructure and facilities to be completed. Meanwhile, it is still a good destination for medium size MICE groups.