Guam Visitors Bureau signs MOU with HIS to boost Japanese tourism
The Guam Visitors Bureau and H.I.S. Co., Ltd. signed a Memorandum of Understanding on November 6, 2026 to create new wellness, sports, cultural and family travel experiences for Japanese visitors. The partnership runs through September 30, 2027 and targets 75,000 Japanese arrivals in FY2027, affecting tourists, local businesses and travel operators.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- A new MOU creates joint marketing and product development for Japanese tourists
- Timing
- Signed November 6 2026 and effective until September 30 2027
- Who is affected
- Japanese travelers, Guam tourism businesses and travel agencies
The details
- Announced by
- Guam Visitors Bureau and H.I.S. Co., Ltd.
- Takes effect
- November 6, 2026
- New rule
- The two organisations will cooperate on marketing, product creation and visitor services to raise Japanese arrivals to pre‑pandemic levels and reach 75,000 visitors in FY2027.
Partnership overview
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the GVB office by Acting President Frank Arriola and HIS Executive Officer Shinji Yoshino. It sets a framework for both parties to collaborate on tourism growth, product innovation and sustainable development of Guam’s visitor sector.
- Joint marketing campaigns targeting Japanese audiences
- Co‑creation of wellness, sports, cultural and family travel packages
- Regular information exchange and progress meetings
Tourism targets and initiatives
The FY2027 collaboration aims to recover Japanese visitor numbers to pre‑pandemic levels and increase them to 75,000. HIS’s proposal includes expanding participation in the Guam Ko’ko’ Road Race, new golf travel packages, promotion of the Guam International Dance Festival, and cultural events at SandCastle.
- Family travel focus through the Shimajiro character campaign
- Travel experiences linked to the Japanese drama "Watashi ga Anata to Iru Riyu 2"
- VTuber promotions and projection‑mapping at Fish Eye Underwater Observatory
Implementation timeline and duration
The MOU remains in effect through September 30, 2027. During this period GVB and HIS will develop a detailed action plan, hold regular meetings and monitor progress. The partnership builds on HIS’s FY2025 and FY2026 visitor figures of 52,000 and 60,100 respectively.
- Action plan development scheduled for early FY2027
- Quarterly reviews to assess visitor numbers and initiative performance
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travel agents can now promote new wellness and family packages created under the GVB‑HIS partnership.
- Japanese tourists may see additional cultural events and sports activities added to Guam itineraries.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or visa requirements are introduced by the MOU.
- Travel documentation remains unchanged for Japanese visitors to Guam.
What you need to do
- Monitor GVB and HIS announcements for the launch dates of new tour products.
- Check with travel providers for availability of the upcoming golf and race‑event packages.
Who this affects
-
Japanese tourists
The MOU is designed to increase Japanese visitor numbers and introduce new travel experiences.
What to do Look for new wellness, sports and family packages when planning a Guam trip.
-
Guam tourism businesses
The partnership aims to boost visitor activity that benefits local hotels, restaurants and attractions.
What to do Prepare to accommodate higher Japanese visitor volumes and new event offerings.
-
Japanese travel agencies
Agencies will receive joint marketing materials and product details from GVB and HIS.
What to do Incorporate the new packages into their sales channels once released.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Guam Visitors Bureau and HIS MOU signed?
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on November 6, 2026 at the GVB office.
What is the target number of Japanese visitors for FY2027?
The partnership sets a goal of 75,000 Japanese visitors to Guam in fiscal year 2027.
How long will the GVB‑HIS agreement remain in effect?
The MOU stays active until September 30, 2027, after which the parties will review progress.
Will the MOU change visa requirements for Japanese travelers?
No, the agreement does not alter any visa rules or documentation for Japanese visitors.
What new travel experiences are being developed under the partnership?
Initiatives include wellness and family packages, golf travel offers, participation in the Guam Ko’ko’ Road Race, promotion of the Guam International Dance Festival, and cultural events linked to Japanese media.
