【Report】Board Game Business Expo Japan 2026 (BGBE): Western Japan’s Largest Board Game Festival — A Report on the Event That Doubled Attendance to 20,000
In recent years, board games have increasingly been used in business settings, including workshops and team-building programs. Alongside this trend, a growing number of events related to board games have emerged. Among them, Board Game Business Expo Japan 2026, commonly known as BGBE, stands out as a particularly noteworthy event.
Now in its third edition, BGBE 2026 was held from January 31 to February 1. With the goal of doubling attendance from the previous year to reach 20,000 visitors, this year’s event marked a significant milestone. The editorial team visited the venue to report on how the event unfolded on site.
A Board Game Event? The Value of BGBE in Attracting 20,000 Visitors in Osaka
What Are Board Games? A Broad and Deep World
Board games refer broadly to analog games played by multiple participants according to set rules, using physical components such as boards, cards, pieces, and dice. While many people associate board games primarily with game boards, the definition has expanded in recent years to include card-based games that do not necessarily use a board.
The category ranges from familiar games such as shogi, mahjong, playing cards, sugoroku, and social deduction games, to well-known titles including UNO, Monopoly, and The Game of Life. Elements of board games have also been incorporated into popular video game series such as Momotaro Dentetsu, Itadaki Street, and Civilization. Genres are highly diverse, encompassing strategy games, cooperative games, deduction and experiential formats such as murder mystery games, and storytelling-based tabletop role-playing games (TRPGs). Titles addressing social issues have also gained attention in recent years.
The global board game market continues to expand, with projections estimating growth from approximately USD 14.37 billion in 2024 to USD 32.0 billion by 2032. In Japan, the number of players has increased amid the rise of board game cafés, a renewed interest driven by digital fatigue, social media exposure, and increased time spent at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adoption is also advancing in corporate and educational settings as a training tool, while streaming platforms such as YouTube and Twitch have helped broaden the fan base.
Board Games in Business Settings
Board games have gained relevance in business contexts as experiential tools for learning and communication. Rather than focusing solely on winning or losing, they allow participants to safely simulate real-world workplace dynamics, such as decision-making under limited information, consensus-building, negotiation, role allocation, resource management, and risk response.
In corporate training, board games are used for team building, fostering psychological safety, leadership development, project execution, systems thinking, and as an entry point to customer understanding. Post-session reflections enable participants to articulate and share insights gained during play.
Beyond training, board games are also effective for creating customer touchpoints at events and retail spaces, building communities, and designing brand experiences. Custom-developed games can support public relations initiatives, recruitment branding, and product understanding. When introducing board games into organizational settings, clearly defining objectives, selecting appropriate games, designing facilitation roles, and establishing evaluation indicators—such as levels of dialogue or behavioral change—can make them effective tools for onboarding and promoting cross-departmental communication.
BGBE 2026: Event Overview
Event Name: Board Game Business Expo Japan 2026 (BGBE 2026)
Dates: January 31 (Saturday) – February 1 (Sunday), 2026
Schedule:
Business Hours: 10:30–12:00
General Admission: 12:00–17:00 (until 16:00 on February 1)
Venue: INTEX Osaka, Hall 3
Organizers:ReAkku Inc. / Freestyle Creation / Mousou Games
Supporter:Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
Official website:https://www.bgbe-j.com/page/en
Previous Coverage and Interview with Organizer Takahashi
Previous Coverage:https://micetimes.jp/report-bgbe-2025/
Interview with Organizer Takahashi:https://micetimes.jp/interview-board-game-business-expo-takahashi/
The Evolving Role of BGBE: Social and Industry Significance
BGBE, held at INTEX Osaka, is one of the largest board game events in western Japan and offers value that extends beyond a conventional exhibition and sales event. Its social and industry significance can be broadly understood through three key perspectives.
1) A Business Bridge Connecting Japanese Creators with Global Markets
As reflected in its name, BGBE has introduced dedicated “business time,” providing a structured environment for commercial discussions — a relatively early initiative within Japan’s board game event landscape.
Works originating from Japan’s rich doujin (independent creator) culture are presented to domestic and international companies and buyers, creating opportunities for commercialization and overseas expansion. With a view toward growing markets in Asia and beyond, the event has strengthened efforts to attract international participants, including interpretation services and multilingual support, with the aim of positioning Osaka as a hub for the board game business in Asia.
2) Redefining the Social Value of Games
At BGBE, board games are positioned not only as entertainment but also as tools for education, welfare, and communication.
In educational contexts, they are used to foster learning through trial and error as well as logical thinking skills. In welfare settings, they support employment programs and facilitate communication within care environments. These applications highlight the broader social potential of games.
3) Investment in Regional Engagement and Future Talent
The event also contributes to regional engagement by linking with local food and tourism resources in the Osaka–Kansai area, encouraging inbound demand through a model that extends beyond the venue itself.
In addition, initiatives such as reduced exhibition fees for students demonstrate a commitment to nurturing the next generation of creators.
In a previous interview, organizer Takahashi commented, “We selected ‘Challenge’ as the theme for BGBE 2026 with the aim of creating a platform that encourages participants to take on new endeavors. As organizers, we also intend to continue embracing that spirit and further expand the scale and impact of the event.”
By offering the enjoyment of playing and purchasing games, BGBE continues to evolve as a platform that supports industry growth, cultural development, and connections among people.
The Origins of BGBE: From a 50-Person Event in Umeda to Its Current Development
MICE TIMES ONLINE has followed Takahashi, the founder and organizer of BGBE, from last year’s event through to the current edition.This feature series presents an overview of the event’s history, which began with a small-scale gathering of approximately 50 participants in Umeda during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the organizer’s ongoing initiatives.
https://micetimes.jp/close-up-bgbe/
https://micetimes.jp/en/report-board-game-business-expo-japan/
A Venue Filled with the World of Board Games
On February 1, the second day of the event, we visited the venue during the designated business time. General admission opened at 12:00, with visitor queues forming as early as 10:00. As part of our media coverage, we were granted early access ahead of general attendees.
We began by visiting booths that had previously participated in last year’s feature coverage.
https://micetimes.jp/close-up-bgbe-03/
Showcasing Unique Booths Found at BGBE
HEY!: Osaka-Based Board Game Collective Featuring “The Match Seller’s Millionaire,” with Over 4,500 Units Sold
HEY!, a board game collective based in Osaka, has been exhibiting in the corporate booth area since the event’s inaugural edition. With a portfolio of well-received titles, the booth presented a consistent and well-organized presence.
One of its featured games, The Match Seller’s Millionaire, is a card game inspired by the traditional Japanese game Daifugo (a climbing card game), incorporating elements of matchstick puzzles that allow players to alter their hands. While the rules are relatively simple and can be understood after a few rounds, the gameplay introduces a higher level of strategic depth compared to standard card versions.
The game is designed for short play sessions and accommodates up to eight players, making it suitable for casual use in settings such as offices, where participants can join spontaneously.
The game also departs from conventional Daifugo strategies, requiring flexible thinking, which may contribute to mental refreshment during play.
In addition to developing original titles, HEY! has expanded its activities to include editorial support services for other creators, offering guidance to improve rulebooks so they are more accessible and easier to understand from a third-party perspective.
Virtual Party Inc.: Expanding VR Experiences and Pre-Registration for a Virtual Board Game Exhibition
Virtual Party Inc. operated one of the most prominent booths at the venue. The company designed its space around the theme of integrating virtual and real experiences, presenting a multifaceted exhibition.
At the booth, the company conducted VR demonstrations while also opening early registration for exhibitors interested in participating in its virtual event, “Virtual Dice Party,” which focuses on analog games in a digital environment.
According to CEO Hosono, the company was able to engage with a broader range of participants compared to the previous year. While last year’s booth emphasized VR as its central concept, this year’s exhibition featured a joint presence with the e-commerce company Conos LLC, resulting in a more dynamic and active booth environment.
@Dokkoi_JP: Accessories Designed for Board Game Play
@Dokkoi_JP showcased a range of accessories designed to enhance board game play. Among the items on display was a card stand used earlier at the HEY! booth during a demonstration of The Match Seller’s Millionaire.
Such original accessories suggest potential for creators to expand their offerings beyond game design, adding complementary products that enhance gameplay experiences. The booth attracted attention not only from general visitors but also from fellow exhibitors, reflecting growing interest in related merchandise within the board game ecosystem.
A variety of products were presented, illustrating the breadth of development in the board game market. It was also noted that the booth location was particularly favorable this year, a point highlighted by nabe, who was managing the booth.
Wild Magic: Exhibiting from the Philippines, Highlighting Handcrafted Fantasy Dice
Wild Magic, an exhibitor from the Philippines, presented handcrafted game dice distinguished by their intricate and imaginative designs. The pieces on display demonstrated a level of craftsmanship comparable to decorative objects, suitable for placement in settings such as cafés or offices.
The company participated in the event for the first time with the aim of gaining insight into the Japanese market. BGBE also featured a notable number of international exhibitors, and according to the team, visitor feedback on their products was positive. At the same time, they expressed interest in the diversity of works presented by other exhibitors in Japan, noting that it provided useful references for their own development.
While the board game user base in the Philippines remains relatively limited, it has been gradually expanding since the COVID-19 pandemic. The brand also shares its product designs on social media platforms, where more detailed examples of its work can be viewed.
https://www.instagram.com/wildmagic.gamingoddities/
Sasagawa Co., Ltd. (ORIGINAL WORKS): Lightweight, Reusable Paper and Wooden Display Fixtures for Exhibitions and Events
One of the most notable booths at the venue featured display fixtures designed for use in exhibitions and events. While acrylic or metal fixtures are commonly used in such settings, they can present challenges in handling due to factors such as weight, bulkiness, or susceptibility to damage.
In contrast, the paper and wooden fixtures presented by Sasagawa Co., Ltd. offer a balance between durability and ease of use. Despite their lightweight construction, the structures are stable and can be assembled with minimal effort. Their reusability also aligns with sustainability considerations, making them a practical option for repeated use across multiple events. In addition, the products are positioned at a relatively accessible price point.
Founded in 1894, Sasagawa is a long-established paper products manufacturer. According to the company, these fixtures were developed in response to demand from flea markets and handmade product events. They are also suitable for displaying brochures and printed materials, suggesting potential applications in B2B exhibitions and event environments.
https://www.sasagawa-brand.co.jp
Raika: A Colorful Booth Featuring Capsule Toy–Style Gameplay with Pixel Art Badges
Raika presented a vibrant and visually distinctive booth, offering a product titled Gachagocha Mate, which utilizes pixel-art (dot-style) badge designs as part of its gameplay concept.
The product incorporates a capsule toy–style mechanism, allowing participants to obtain items through randomized draws. The badges serve both as collectible items and as components within the game system, enabling users to gradually build their collection starting from a basic set.
Pixel art–based game design was observed at several booths throughout the venue, reflecting the continued relevance of this visual style within contemporary game culture. For long-time digital game enthusiasts, the evolution of pixel art into an established artistic expression remains notable.
According to the exhibitor, this marked their second participation since the event’s launch, and both visitor engagement and sales performance showed improvement compared to the previous edition. The booth’s presentation, including the attire of staff members, contributed to an approachable and engaging atmosphere, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
https://twitter.com/Lighka_limenome
Reaching the “Goal” of 20,000 Visitors: What Comes Next for BGBE?
Over the past year, MICE TIMES ONLINE has followed how BGBE 2026 was developed. This process was also an opportunity to examine a sense of inconsistency often felt when participating in exhibitions and events, whether as an exhibitor or through media coverage.
The importance of organizers engaging directly with exhibitors and carefully considering the experience of visitors may seem self-evident. However, such practices can sometimes be overlooked within established norms of the exhibition industry. Through on-site coverage at BGBE, conversations with organizer Takahashi, and insights gathered from exhibitors, it became clear that these concerns were not unfounded.
At the venue, the organizer could be seen welcoming visitors at the entrance with a composed yet attentive demeanor. Despite the demands of the event, efforts were also made to visit individual booths and maintain direct communication with exhibitors. While formal ceremonies and VIP engagement remain important, the event highlighted the value of focusing on those directly participating on the day.
As the event continues to grow in scale, new challenges may emerge. However, BGBE appears to be positioned to address these challenges while maintaining its core approach. With the milestone of 20,000 visitors achieved, attention now turns to the next phase of development for the event.
An official announcement on social media confirmed that BGBE 2027 is scheduled to take place from January 16 to 17.
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