At ZenGroup, we believe that building strong teams goes beyond the office walls. Every year, we organize a company trip to bring everyone together, share new experiences, and create lasting memories. In 2024, our destination was the beautiful island of Shodoshima (小豆島)!

What is Shodoshima?

Shodoshima is a charming island located in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, known for its scenic landscapes. It is a popular island for domestic tourism in Japan and is often called “Olive Island” due to it being the first area in Japan to successfully grow olives.

Trip Overview

Our two-day trip took place on two days during October, 2024. Employees hopped onto a bus and started their journey, making exciting stops along the way.

Day 1 We visited Himeji Castle — a UNESCO World Heritage site — and Koko-en Garden, known for its beautiful Japanese landscaping.
We also explored the Himeji harbor area before heading to our overnight stay at Shodoshima international hotel (旅館).
Day 2 On Shodoshima island, we enjoyed a full day of sightseeing! Highlights included:

    • Shodoshima Olive Park: A picturesque spot famous for its olive trees and Greek-inspired scenery. Fun fact, Shodoshima’s sister island is Milos, Greece!
    • Marukin Soy Sauce Museum: A fun (and delicious!) look into the island’s soy sauce history.
    • “24 Eyes” Scene Location: A nostalgic film location from the film “24 Eyes”
    • Kankakei Ropeway: Breathtaking views from one of Japan’s most beautiful gorges.

Team Bonding and Fun Moments

All activities were enjoyed as a group, and the trip offered an opportunity to  connect with colleagues from different departments and work locations. Having dinner was a special moment when everyone gathered for a delicious meal and listened to their colleagues display their singing talent.

Many employees mentioned that they appreciated the chance to discover a new part of Japan while strengthening their relationships with colleagues. We encourage employee participation by covering the majority of transportation, accommodation, and attraction costs, making it easy and fun for everyone to join. Whether it’s exploring Wakayama (2022) or Mie (2021), each destination offers new discoveries!

Our planning team is already working on the itinerary for this year’s trip, and we are excited to head to Kinosaki Onsen and create new memories together.

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