The 16th Taiwan-Japan Conference on Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

A Grand Medical Assembly Sustaining Taiwan-Japan Friendship

Since 1991, the conference has originally functioned as a small-scale platform for academic exchange and camaraderie between National Taiwan University and the University of Tokyo. As research and technological advancements in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery flourished in both nations, the event evolved significantly. Today, it stands as a landmark international conference, characterized by a growing community of practitioners and enthusiastic participation from associated medical societies in Taiwan and Japan.

Creating Distinctive Visual Narratives within Harmony

The 16th Taiwan-Japan Conference on Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (TJCOHNS) was held in conjunction with the 115th Annual Meeting of the Taiwan Society of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (TSOHNS). A core challenge of our planning was distinguishing the more than 370-delegate Taiwan-Japan conference with a sense of exclusivity and prestige within a massive 2,500-person annual convention. Recognizing that visual identity defines the first impression, we integrated a "cherry blossom pink" palette—a symbol of Japanese culture—into the established framework of the annual meeting. This subtle color transition, complemented by the strategic display of national flags, allowed delegates to intuitively identify the venue while maintaining overall visual coherence, successfully celebrating the spirit of bilateral unity.

Program Arrangement Reflecting the Etiquette of Reciprocity

Guided by the philosophy that "guests are paramount," we translated the values of humility and respect into every detail of the program. To accommodate the fatigue of international travel, we strategically scheduled domestic speakers for the early morning sessions, providing Japanese delegates with ample time for rest and adjustment. Furthermore, we implemented a "One-from- Japan, One-from- Taiwan" principle for session chairs. This arrangement served not only as a gesture of mutual academic respect but also as a bridge for transnational mentorship and professional exchange between surgeons of both nations.

Local Excursions Fostering Dialogue between Architecture and Heritage

With the conference hosted in Taichung, we curated an excursion to Sun Moon Lake that fused Japanese architectural aesthetics with Taiwanese cultural charm. The journey begins at Tadao Ando’s Xiangshan Visitor Center, extends to Shigeru Ban’s Paper Dome, and culminates at Toyo Ito’s National Taichung Theater, using architectural language to narrate the profound emotional ties between Taiwan and Japan. For a sensory experience, guests enjoyed local tea-infused cuisine followed by a stroll through the centennial Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory, witnessing the refined transformation of Taiwan’s tea industry from its glorious past to its modern evolution.

Gifting Strategies Linking Culture to the Heart

Considering that souvenirs should not become a burden to carry and should serve as an extension of the conference and a bridge for cultural exchange, we selected gifts centered on "rice" and "tea," reflecting the shared food culture of Taiwan and Japan. We offered all delegates the "Organic Duck-Rice" from Changhua—a celebrated selection of the Golden Horse Awards. For our Japanese VIPs, we specially curated "Taiwanese Charcoal-Roasted Oolong Tea," a recipient of the Highest Gold Medal from the World Green Tea Association. By linking sensory experience with emotional heritage, we successfully conveyed the host’s profound sincerity, allowing delegates to feel a warm cultural depth beyond the academic sessions.

Agile Coordination Delivering Warmth through Execution

The true success of an event often lies in the seamless management of the unexpected. Facing the challenges of a remote venue and the fluid schedules of international guests, our team demonstrated exceptional agility and synergy. Our staff provided personalized guidance at the meeting room exits while simultaneously utilizing multiple ride-hailing platforms to coordinate immediate transportation. Ensuring every guest could transition to their next destination smoothly and safely transformed our hard work into a profound sense of achievement. This conference did not merely persist through the pandemic; it flourished through meticulous planning, ensuring that this precious transnational friendship continues to thrive in every detail.