But when you come here, something unexpected happens.
Sitting on the stone steps of Theatron — an amphitheater that holds 10,000 — under the Setouchi sky, talking with entrepreneurs from around the world, you start to feel a quiet pull toward this town.
Sanuki City loses 500 residents every year. We want to change that. But we're not asking you to move here.
Come back every year. Join the side that builds this place. Stay connected to this town in your own way.
The Sanuki Global Forum was born from four entrepreneur communities joining forces. AI, global business, regional innovation, international exchange — different themes, but every event is built by entrepreneurs.
And we will keep holding it here, every year. The bond between people and a place doesn't form in a single visit. It grows by coming back.
Theatron — Amphitheater overlooking the Seto Inland Sea
WHY SANUKI?
Why Sanuki?
Sanuki City is not a tourist destination. That's exactly why it has potential.
Ocean and mountains, 30 minutes to Takamatsu Airport by car, 3 hours to Osaka. A perfectly livable place — yet lacking industry and a vision for the future. Around 2,000 vacant houses sit quietly, their number growing.
Entrepreneurs are the ones who can build a town's future. One entrepreneur, whose hometown is Sanuki, declared he would grow the population. A local community rallying behind that vision is slowly taking shape.
In tourist towns, land prices soar quickly. Sanuki is different. Artists revitalize vacant houses. Generative AI drives everything at radically low cost. Not Silicon Valley — low-cost innovation. That's the Sanuki way.
In a world where Gen Z can't afford homes, Sanuki can be a place where they can. Why not design a creative city of the future — together?
Which event should I attend?
We suggest the best events based on your interests and goals.
Current Events
Active & upcoming events
AI-Driven Management Summit 2026 Fall
The Autumn 2026 edition of the AI-Driven Management Summit, delivering cutting-edge AI management methods and global networks.
View DetailsAI-Driven Management Boot Camp
A 2-night intensive where executives master Claude and complete their own systems. At PLH Sanuki, max 10 per session, lodging + 3 meals/day included.
View DetailsPast Events
2026.05.14 - 05.17
AI-Driven Management Summit & Boot Camp 2026
The Summit (May 16) is a one-day conference for executives and AI specialists. The Boot Camp (May 14–17) is a 4-day intensive to build your own company system.
View ArchiveKAIB 2026 KICK OFF!
Kickoff for KAIB, a community for Kagawa entrepreneurs and business owners. Accelerating the local ecosystem.
View ArchiveWAOJE Sanuki 2026
Japanese entrepreneurs from around the world gather for overseas expansion and networking.
View ArchiveGenAI Fest 2026
A fusion of tech and creativity. A day to experience the future drawn by Generative AI.
View ArchiveSanuki Connect 2026
An international conference hosted by the English-speaking community. Beyond borders networking and discovery.
View ArchivePre/Post Tour
Special tours to experience the charm of Kagawa and Shikoku and its deep history.
View ArchiveAbout the Forum
Community & Entrepreneur Ecosystem
Co-organized by diverse entrepreneur communities including WAOJE, KAIB, and the GenAI Club. English Club support for foreign businesses and Golf Club investor networking are among the 'club activities' that keep connections alive year-round.
Organizers
Operated by the Sanuki Global Forum Executive Committee, centered on the Kirirom Group with global experts and local volunteers. We widely recruit volunteers, offering networking and hands-on experience opportunities.
Organizer Interview
Why we started this forum and the vision behind five events (~6 min)
Message for Sanuki Global Forum 2026
I would like to extend my heartfelt welcome and congratulations on the "Sanuki Global Forum 2026" being held here in Sanuki City.
Currently, the dramatic evolution of generative AI is fundamentally transforming the industrial structure of society as a whole.
At such a crucial turning point, I feel very proud and reassured as the local mayor that people with shared aspirations are gathering in this land to create new value from a global perspective.
Furthermore, the venue for this event, the "former Kouzaki Elementary School," was once a precious place where local children spoke of their dreams and deepened their learning. Although it once finished its role due to the wave of declining birthrates, I feel immense joy and deep significance that this school building is now being revived and utilized as a "classroom of the future" to create new value once again.
In conclusion, I sincerely pray that this forum will be fruitful and serve as an opportunity for further leaps forward for the organizer, Mr. Izuka, and all participants.
Shigeki Oyama, Mayor of Sanuki City
We Support the Sanuki Global Forum
We are driving regional innovation with the generous support and cooperation of numerous individuals and companies.
Rohan Shetty
CEO, ICMT Co., Ltd. Incoming President, EO APAC BRIDGE Sanuki Connect Producer
「I am an Indian Entrepreneur and formerly based in Dubai for many decades running an international shipping line and other businesses. I strongly resonated with and believed in the PLH strategy presented to me two years ago to invest in Kagawa and proceeded to establish a business in Sanuki. I chose to relocate my family here to Japan as we respect and admire the culture here. As part of my business strategy I am also focusing on economic revival of the local economy and am producing ‘Sanuki Connect’ a music festival to bring both the local community, especially young adults as well as international and other Japanese entrepreneurs together with music as a platform.」
Shinichi Hosokawa
Founder & Managing Director, GMO z.com Research Pte. Ltd. Representative Director, HOSOKAWA Inc. Managing Director, Hosokawa Pte. Ltd. Kagawa Innovation Base Representative Director & Chairman
「I am a global entrepreneur from Kagawa. After taking my founded company to its IPO on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, I gained international business experience across Japan, Asia, the US, and Europe. Leveraging those insights, I am working on the global development of Kagawa as the Representative Director & Chairman of the Kagawa Innovation Base. I fully support the Sanuki Global Forum.」
Shingo Miyake
Former Member of the House of Councillors
「Heartiest congratulations on the holding of the 'Sanuki Global Forum 2026'. Diverse talents including students, entrepreneurs, and those with a strong passion for regional contribution gather here in my hometown, Sanuki City. This is a wonderful initiative centered around AI, global business, regional innovation, and international exchange. I would like to express my sincere respect to Mr. Izuka and all those involved for their dedication to making this happen. AI is currently the center of global attention. While the new model 'Claude Mythos' has the potential to contribute greatly to humanity, it could also pose a threat depending on how it is used. I am confident that this forum will not only deepen our understanding of the technological frontier but also serve as a catalyst for exciting encounters.」
Kenken
Co-Director, PLH Generative AI Dept.
「I co-founded the PLH Generative AI Dept. Whether starting a business or working hard within a company, mastering generative AI makes a difference in this era. I look forward to the Sanuki Global Forum becoming a place of learning and networking for such people.」
Keiji Imajo
Representative, K2 Frontier Visiting Professor, Graduate School of Business Administration, Kwansei Gakuin University Outside Director, Uchida Yoko Co., Ltd.
「I previously served as the representative of an independent listed venture capital firm and the branch manager of WAOJE Osaka. I look forward to entrepreneurs from around the world gathering at the Sanuki Global Forum for lively discussions and networking.」
Kei Hashimura
President, Tokushima Kongwan Niage Branch Manager, WAOJE Sanuki
「I run a business in Tokushima. Through connections with the world, I want to make Shikoku a more interesting place. I expect initiatives like the Sanuki Global Forum will be a major step in that direction.」
Messages Received for Co-hosted Events
Here are the messages received for the co-hosted events held during the forum.
Toyohito Ikeda
Governor of Kagawa Prefecture
「Hello to Mr. Hosokawa, Mr. Izuka, and everyone who has worked hard to launch the Kagawa Innovation Base. I am Toyohito Ikeda, the Governor of Kagawa Prefecture. I am very encouraged and pleased to see the launch of the Kagawa Innovation Base. In recent years, the environment surrounding us, including the socio-economy and industrial structure, has been changing rapidly. Startups with a sense of speed and imagination play a crucial role in pioneering a new era. In this new era, I believe that regional challenges will drive the growth of Japan as a whole. To significantly change the future of Kagawa, it is essential to foster entrepreneurs who take risks to create new value, startups that deploy their businesses globally, and the community networks that support them. Kagawa Innovation Base is precisely the hub for such challenges. By connecting and learning from each other, and sharing failures while boldly taking on challenges, I expect many startups capable of competing globally will emerge from Kagawa. The prefecture will also actively work in collaboration with relevant organizations to create an environment where startups can be born and grow, making Kagawa Prefecture a region where challengers gather. I ask for your continued support. In conclusion, I pray for the continued development of the Kagawa Innovation Base and the success of everyone taking on these challenges.」
Takuya Hirai
Member of the House of Representatives / Former Minister for Digital Transformation
「Hello everyone, I am Takuya Hirai. I would like to offer my congratulations on the launch of the Innovation Base. Currently, I serve as the chairman of the Startup Parliamentary League in the Diet. Supporting startups and preparing the environment for them is a very important mission of ours. The world is changing dramatically with AI and Web3. In particular, AI will provide a powerful boost for startups. It increases speed and reduces the need for large teams, enabling startups to get off the ground. In this climate, it has become fully possible for companies from Kagawa Prefecture to compete and succeed globally. I sincerely hope that the Innovation Base will serve as a hub where many people connect, inspire one another, and take on new challenges. With local zebra companies and the backing of impact investing, various new enterprises will surely start. Let us join forces so that local zebra companies can play an active role globally and solve regional challenges. Congratulations once again.」
Shuichi Harada
Member of the House of Councillors
「Congratulatory Message Heartiest congratulations on the grand holding of 'Generative AI Fest 2026 in Kagawa'. Generative AI is no longer just for a handful of specialists. In regional areas as well, it holds the potential to significantly transform businesses, education, government, and local society itself. Particularly in places like Kagawa Prefecture that directly face regional challenges, I believe it is crucial to view AI not as a 'threat' but as a 'force to support the region'. I expect the challenges taken on by everyone gathered here today will mark a major step toward pioneering a new era from Kagawa. In conclusion, I sincerely pray for the success of this festival and the continued success of all participants, and offer my words of celebration.」
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Can anyone attend the Sanuki Global Forum?
Yes, anyone interested in innovation and global business — from entrepreneurs to students and locals — is welcome. Some sessions cater to specific audiences, so please check each event page for details.
Where can I purchase tickets?
Ticket purchase links are available on each event's detail page (AI-Driven Management Summit, WAOJE Sanuki, GenAI Fest, etc.).
Is it possible to participate online?
We believe the value lies in key people gathering in person in Sanuki City, so there is no online participation. Transcripts of generative AI-related sessions are provided exclusively to full 4-day pass holders.
Do I need separate tickets if I want to attend multiple events?
Holders of the AI-Driven Management Summit/Bootcamp 1-day or 4-day passes can attend co-hosted events (KAIB, WAOJE, GenAI Fest, Sanuki Connect) on that day at no extra cost. If attending only a co-hosted event, please purchase that event's ticket separately.
Can I participate in English? Which events support English?
Sanuki Connect (May 17) is conducted in English. Other events (AI-Driven Management Summit, KAIB, WAOJE, GenAI Fest) are held in Japanese.
Tickets & Pricing
What are the ticket prices for each event?
Main prices: [AI-Driven Management Summit & Bootcamp] ・1-Day (5/14): ¥33,000 ・1-Day (5/15): ¥44,000 ・1-Day (5/16): ¥55,000 ・4-Day Pass (5/14–17): ¥220,000 [KAIB Kickoff (5/14)] ・Admission: ¥5,000 ・SGF Lunch: ¥3,000 ・SGF Dinner: ¥10,000 [WAOJE Sanuki (5/15)] ・Member Early Bird: ¥37,400 / Regular: ¥42,900 ・General Early Bird: ¥39,000 / Regular: ¥44,000 [GenAI Fest (5/16)] ・Regular: ¥15,000 [Sanuki Connect (5/17)] ・General: ¥3,000 ・VIP: ¥20,000/year
I want to learn AI-driven management. What's the difference between the Summit and the Bootcamp?
The Summit (May 16, 1 day) is a roundtable-style one-day conference on AI-driven management. Rather than listening to lectures, all participants engage in discussions led by facilitators and contributors. Learn the big picture and have deep conversations with other executives and AI specialists. The Bootcamp (May 14–17, 4 days) includes the Summit plus three additional days, designed for executives to actually build their own company systems hands-on. It includes pre-event prep and post-event follow-up until your system is complete. [Who should attend] ・Solopreneurs looking to launch a business using generative AI ・Executives who want to build their own company systems instead of outsourcing ・Management teams looking to catch up on generative AI and acquire cutting-edge skills For a one-day experience, choose the Summit (¥55,000). To seriously build your own system, choose the Bootcamp (¥220,000).
Can I attend any event through Furusato Nozei (hometown tax)?
Yes, the Generative AI Fest (May 16) is available as a Furusato Nozei (hometown tax) return gift from Sanuki City. Using this option, you can attend for effectively around ¥2,000 out-of-pocket.
What's included in the AI-Driven Management Bootcamp (4-day pass)?
Includes: ・All sessions & panels (5/14–16) ・AI-Driven Development Workshop with guidance (5/17) ・Free access to co-events (KAIB, WAOJE, GenAI Fest, Sanuki Connect) ・All evening events (KAIB Night, WAOJE Night, VIP Dine Around) ・Lunch & dinner ・Pre-summit online prep program ・Post-event follow-up until your system is complete ・Dedicated project room access ・Transcripts of AI-driven management sessions ・Free airport shuttle
Can I attend co-hosted events with a 1-day pass?
Yes, holders of AI-Driven Management Summit/Bootcamp 1-day passes can attend co-hosted events on that day at no extra cost. For example, a 5/14 pass includes KAIB Kickoff, a 5/15 pass includes WAOJE Sanuki, and a 5/16 pass includes GenAI Fest.
Cancellation & Changes
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
[AI-Driven Management Summit, KAIB, WAOJE] ・Feb 15–Mar 31: 70% refund ・Apr 1–15: 50% refund ・Apr 16–30: 25% refund ・May 1 onwards: Non-refundable *Bank and payment processing fees deducted. [Tours] ・7+ days before: 100% refund ・3+ days before: 50% refund ・Same day: Non-refundable
Can I send a substitute attendee?
Yes, substitute attendees are welcome. Please contact the secretariat (sanuki@plh.life) in advance to arrange.
Venue & Access
Where is the venue?
The venue for all events is PLH Sanuki (1615 Kanzaki, Sangawa-cho, Sanuki City, Kagawa 769-2323). Sanuki Connect (May 17) is also held at PLH Sanuki.
How do I get to the venue?
[By Air] ~80 min from Haneda (ANA/JAL) or ~95 min from Narita (Jetstar) to Takamatsu Airport. ~30 min by car from airport to PLH Sanuki. [By Train] JR Kotoku Line, Kanzaki Station — 4-minute walk (right in front of the station). [By Car] ~5 min from Tsuda-Samukawa IC (Takamatsu Expressway). Free parking available. [By Bus] Get off at Kosoku-Tsuda Bus Stop, ~12 min by car. Pick-up available upon prior request.
Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at PLH Sanuki (over 100 spaces). However, spaces are limited, so public transportation is also recommended.
Is there shuttle service from the airport or hotels?
Free shuttle service from the airport and recommended hotels is available for WAOJE Sanuki, AI-Driven Management Summit, and Bootcamp participants. KAIB participants should contact the KAIB secretariat. Sanuki Connect and GenAI Fest participants are asked to arrange their own transportation to the venue.
Accommodation
Are there recommended accommodations?
We recommend the following accommodations: [With Shuttle] ・Tresta Hakusan Hotel ・Jakomaru Park Tsuda ・Airbnb in Sanuki City [Without Shuttle (convenient JR Kotoku Line access)] ・JR Clement Inn Takamatsu ・JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu
Is there shuttle service from accommodations?
Free shuttle buses are planned from Tresta Hakusan Hotel and Jakomaru Park Tsuda (for eligible event participants only). From hotels in Takamatsu City, please use the JR Kotoku Line.
Food & Facilities
Are meals provided?
It depends on the event: ・AI-Driven Management Summit/Bootcamp (1-day & 4-day passes): Lunch & dinner included ・KAIB Kickoff: Lunch (¥3,000) and dinner (¥10,000) are separate tickets ・WAOJE Sanuki: Lunch, dinner & drinks included ・GenAI Fest: Lunch included ・Sanuki Connect: Meals NOT included (food trucks and vendors available on-site)
Is Wi-Fi available?
Wi-Fi is available at PLH Sanuki, but capacity is limited given the number of attendees. We recommend using your mobile data connection.
Is there a dress code?
There is no specific dress code. Business casual is recommended, but feel free to dress comfortably. For Sanuki Connect (May 17), an outdoor event, we suggest comfortable clothing and sun protection.
Sanuki Connect (5/17)
Does the Sanuki Connect ticket include food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included. Food trucks, burgers, tacos, and various drink bars will be available on-site for purchase.
How do I get to Sanuki Connect?
Sanuki Connect is held at PLH Sanuki. Access is the same as other events — 4-minute walk from JR Kanzaki Station, or about 30 minutes by car from Takamatsu Airport.
How can I attend the after-party?
The after-party (at PLH Sanuki from 20:00) is exclusive to VIP ticket holders (¥20,000/year). General ticket holders cannot attend.
Tours & Surroundings
Are there pre/post tours available?
Yes. Official tours include golf at Shido Country Club (May 16, ¥15,000). Participant-organized meetups such as a Naoshima Art Trip (May 18) are also being planned. See the Tours page for details.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, families are welcome. We provide a sightseeing manual for Kagawa and Sanuki City so your family can enjoy the area during the forum. There are many attractions including the Seto Inland Sea, Ritsurin Garden, and Sanuki udon tours.
Other
Can I get a receipt?
Yes, a receipt is automatically sent to your registered email after purchase. You can view the receipt in your browser via the link in the email, and download or print it as a PDF.
How can I contact the organizers?
Please contact the Sanuki Global Forum secretariat by email. Email: sanuki@plh.life For questions specific to co-hosted events, please use the contact forms on each event page.
Contact Information
For inquiries about the events, please contact the secretariat or use the contact forms on each page.
© 2026 Sanuki Global Forum. All rights reserved.