Tokyo: The Perfect Host for the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025
From May 29 to 31, Tokyo proudly hosted the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025 at the iconic Tokyo International Forum (TIF). The event welcomed over 4,600 delegates from across the globe for an exciting three-day program filled with seminars, keynote presentations, and hands-on workshops that delivered the latest innovations in physiotherapy. 
A dynamic exhibition hall showcased cutting-edge technologies revolutionizing patient care, while cultural experiences (like Japanese Radio Taiso exercises), generously supplied by the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB), allowed attendees to immerse themselves in Japan's rich traditions.
During the Congress, the TCVB team had the opportunity to sit down with Allegra Roccato, Head of Events at World Physiotherapy, to learn more about the event, the venue, and Tokyo's unique appeal as a host city.
Allegra Roccato - World Physiotherapy Head of Events
What is the World Physiotherapy Congress?
The World Physiotherapy Congress is the only global event that brings together physiotherapists from all specialties. While other events focus on specific areas, our Congress provides a space where the entire profession can gather, learn, and connect.
We represent member organizations from 129 countries, making us the world's largest physiotherapy network. The Congress is held biennially and rotates across regions. We also have an extensive exhibition showcasing the latest updates in physiotherapy.
Congress mascot ready to welcome delegates (left). Opening ceremony with 4,600 delegates (right).
Why was Tokyo chosen as the destination for 2025?
Tokyo is one of the most sought-after destinations globally. It's a city known for its cutting-edge technology, exceptional infrastructure, and unique culture. These factors, along with world-class convention facilities, made it a natural choice for World Physiotherapy.
We also have a strong base in Japan as the Japanese Physical Therapy Association (JPTA) alone has over 100,000 members, more than any other country. Hosting the event in Tokyo meant excellent local engagement and attendance.
Additionally, Tokyo's geographic location makes it more accessible for attendees from nearby regions such as Australia and New Zealand and other Asia Pacific regions, who may find it difficult to travel to Europe or the Americas.
How was the experience at the Tokyo International Forum?
TIF was the ideal venue. Its stunning glass architecture gave us plenty of natural light, making for an energizing environment for Congress delegates. The auditoriums and meeting rooms were first-class, and everything we needed was available on-site.
The venue could not have been better connected, with two major train stations nearby and an abundance of restaurants, attractions, and a wide variety of hotels within walking distance.
One standout feature was TIF's open access design. We appreciate venues with public visibility, as it promotes awareness of physiotherapy and the importance of our Congress to a broader audience.
How did cultural programs like radio-taiso contribute to the Congress?
We were thrilled to incorporate radio-taiso, a uniquely Japanese exercise routine, into the Congress. It was far more popular than our usual morning runs!
It tied in beautifully with the spirit of physiotherapy and allowed delegates to actively engage with Japanese culture. As Tokyo's office workers could also participate in radio-taiso, it was a delightful way to connect our profession with the local community.
What sustainability measures were implemented?
Sustainability was a top priority. We took several meaningful steps:
• Installed water stations and encouraged reusable bottles
• Created a digital Congress program via a smartphone app to minimize paper use
• Skipped carpeting in the exhibition hall
• Used Re-board (recyclable cardboard) signage
• Implemented a sustainable menu and a no-plastic policy at the welcome reception, using bamboo cutlery and plates
Tokyo's advanced technology helped us stay true to our vision of a paperless, low-waste Congress.
Water server (left) , trash cans for paper cups and leftover drinks (right)
What was your biggest takeaway from hosting the Congress in Tokyo?
World Physiotherapy 2025 was a true collaborative success. We worked closely with our Japanese partners, the venue teams, and the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau. Despite the time zone difference, our office is based in London, everyone in Tokyo was incredibly accommodating.
The financial support from TCVB was invaluable. It helped cover venue costs and supported our use of high-end machine translation technology, the best translation tech we've ever used at one of our events.
We would love to return to Tokyo in the future and will be strongly recommending it to other international associations. The hospitality and professionalism here are second to none.
TCVB will continue to promote notable events in Tokyo while supporting event organizers.