At the 3rd Global Laughter Forum in Nara, we will consider how laughter can help support people and communities, and what new possibilities it can create, as we face the challenges of healthcare, caregiving, and everyday life in local communities amid an aging society and declining birthrate.
Japan is currently in the midst of an unprecedented aging society with a declining birthrate. While population decline and the weakening of community ties are challenges we cannot ignore, one thing remains essential for humans to live healthy, fulfilling lives regardless of social change: the power of laughter.
In this forum, we have established "Well-being in a Super-Aging Society" as our central theme. From the perspective of compassionate medical care to the latest scientific findings and experiential workshops, we will explore "laughter" from multiple angles. We believe you will find the keys to a future where everyone can live with a smile right here in Nara.
Our venue, "Iraka," is located in the heart of Nara Park, where deer roam freely. While our staff has been busy preparing—and occasionally dodging local "surprises" like having our meeting materials nibbled on by the deer (as they are national treasures, please feed them shika-senbei crackers instead of paper!)—we are dedicated to making this event unforgettable.
We have prepared unique experiences only Nara can offer, such as a social gathering at the prestigious, newly renovated Nara Hotel and the rare opportunity to present your work on a traditional Noh stage. We are confident that this visit will update your memories of Nara from your school trip days to something even more exciting and profound.
"Fortune comes to those who laugh." Let us carry this wisdom from Nara to the rest of the world. I look forward to laughing with all of you and taking a step toward building a truly flourishing society.
A Future Opened by a Life with Laughter
How can small daily habits bring positive changes to our physical and mental well-being, as well as to our connections with the community? From the perspective of a physician and researcher, Professor Ohira will explore the possibilities of living with laughter.
Tetsuya Ohira
Professor, Fukushima Medical University
Board Member, Laughter Innovation Society
Professor Tetsuya Ohira was selected for the “World’s Top 2% Scientists” list, published by Stanford University and Elsevier, in the updated version released on September 19, 2025.
Board Member, NPO Warotenka-tai
What We Have Learned from Community Healthcare and the Activities of NPO Warotenka-tai
Director, Asuka Village National Health Insurance Clinic
How We Face Death Reflects How We Live:
A Perspective from Compassionate Community Care
Please choose one workshop you would like to attend when registering. Workshops will be held in breakout-session format, with a variety of themes to choose from.
Workshop instructors and themes are subject to change.
All workshops will be held during the same time slot. Each workshop has a limited capacity. If your preferred workshop is full, we may ask you to choose another workshop.
Atsumasa Edahiro
Director, Toyookadai Hospital
Learn the skills of effective expression from “Dr. Acchan,” a physician who is also active as a rakugo performer and stage actor.
Noriko Nakamura
Certified Public Psychologist
Drawing on her extensive experience in counseling and public speaking, Noriko Nakamura will share practical tips for creating a supportive atmosphere, with hands-on exercises.
Katsunori Nakase
Director, Nakase Clinic
A one-of-a-kind talk by a witty and charismatic doctor, whose presentation was met with great enthusiasm at the 1st Laughter Forum.
Participants will enjoy Laughter Yoga and a special encounter with Nara’s deer at Tobihino, a spacious field within the grounds of World Heritage-listed Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
これは編集画面用のサンプルです。
「プレビュー」から実際の見た目をご確認ください。
◆Venue |
Nara Kasugano International Forum IRAKA |
|---|---|
◆Address |
101 Kasugano-cho, Nara City, Nara, Japan |
◆By Foot |
20-minute walk from Exit 2 of Kintetsu Nara Station |
◆By Bus |
From Kintetsu Nara Station: From JR Nara Station: For both routes, take either: A bus bound for “Kasuga Taisha Honden” and get off at “Nara Kasugano International Forum IRAKA-mae.” The venue is just a short walk from the bus stop. Or take the City Loop Bus, Outer Route, and get off at “Todaiji Daibutsuden / Kasuga Taisha-mae.” From there, walk east from the Daibutsuden intersection for about 3 minutes. |
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Your information will be used only for event-related contact and arrangements.
We may also send info about the Japan Reception is handled Innovation.
Reception is handled by Japan Laughter Yoga Association; Artland Inc. on behalf of the Society