JTB Hawaii Travel, LLC provides comprehensive support for sports events in Hawaii, covering everything from event planning, permits and approvals, and participant recruitment to production arrangements and on-site event operations.

One of our most representative projects is the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, which launched in 2013 as Hawaii’s first ekiden relay race open to the general public.

Organized and hosted by JTB Hawaii, the event combines Japan’s unique ekiden relay culture with Hawaii’s open and welcoming environment. Over the years, we have developed the event into a community-oriented sports experience that can be enjoyed not only by runners, but also by families, friends, and local residents.

Drawing on more than a decade of experience organizing the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, as well as the local knowledge and network we have built through years of event operations in Hawaii, JTB Hawaii provides comprehensive support to companies, government agencies, and sports organizations looking to organize sports events in Hawaii, from the initial planning stage through execution.

Event Overview

■Event: Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN
■Location: Kapiolani Park and surrounding course
■Visitors: Approximately 1,500
■Runners: Approximately 800
■Organizer: JTB Hawaii Travel, LLC
■Co-organizer: JTB Corp.
■Supported by: Honolulu Festival Foundation
■Official Websites: https://rainbowekiden.com/

Event Planning and Business Design

Based on the event objectives and target audience, we develop a comprehensive event plan covering concept development, competition format, venue layout, operational planning, budget and financial planning, sponsorship packages, and more.

For the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, we developed the concept of a “Hawaii-style community sports festival where everyone can have fun, not just the runners, but also their friends, families, and supporters.” Rather than focusing solely on competition, we have created an event that is accessible and enjoyable for participants of a wide range of ages.

We can also develop original events tailored to specific objectives, including:

• Anniversary and commemorative events
• Community engagement
• Employee engagement
• Brand promotions
• Corporate and organizational events

Coordination with Government Agencies and Permits

Organizing an event using public parks or roads in Hawaii often requires coordination with multiple organizations, including the State of Hawaii, the City and County of Honolulu, police and fire departments, and facility managers, as well as obtaining the necessary permits and approvals.

JTB Hawaii supports clients with venue use applications, coordination related to road use, traffic control, safety management plans, and other procedures by leveraging the network we have developed with government agencies and local stakeholders through years of event operations.

Our experienced local staff understand Hawaii’s regulations and application procedures, helping clients planning events from overseas navigate the preparation process with confidence.

Participant Recruitment and Promotion

Depending on the scale and target audience of the event, we can also support the development of official landing pages and multilingual websites, as well as the operation of online registration systems.

We also implement promotional campaigns targeting Japan, Hawaii, and the U.S. mainland by combining social media, digital advertising, media and PR, and travel products and distribution channels.

In addition, we work with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to encourage group participation, expanding outreach beyond individual participants.

Planning and Arranging Original Event Materials

We plan and arrange a wide range of materials used by participants, staff, and volunteers, ensuring that they reflect the overall concept and brand image of the event.

For the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, these include:

• Original event T-shirts
• Race bibs
• Relay sashes
• Finisher medals
• Venue signage and stage decorations
• Staff and volunteer supplies
• Sponsor signage and promotional materials

By managing the entire process from design and production to transportation and on-site distribution, we help create a consistent look and feel across the entire event.

 

On-Site Event Operations

On the day of the event, we oversee the entire operation, from venue setup and participant check-in to race management, safety management, stage operations, and teardown.

Key Areas of Support

• Venue setup, operation, and teardown
• Participant, staff, and volunteer management
• Safety management and traffic control
• Coordination with relevant government agencies and organizations
• Stage management, award ceremonies, and sponsor support
• Photography, video production, and event documentation

We prepare detailed operational manuals and event schedules in advance and share information among all stakeholders to ensure safe and smooth event operations.

Community involvement is also essential to the successful operation of sports events. JTB Hawaii works with schools, universities, and community organizations in Hawaii to seek cooperation and encourage local participation.

At the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN, local students and community groups participate as volunteers, supporting various aspects of the event, including registration, water stations, and venue assistance.

Through event planning and operations, we also help create opportunities for community engagement and social contribution.

One-Stop Support for Sports Events in Hawaii

JTB Hawaii does more than simply arrange event logistics. As a local event producer, we connect government agencies, venues, community organizations, sponsors, and participants to bring the entire event together.

Drawing on the knowledge and local network developed through the Honolulu Rainbow EKIDEN and other event projects, we provide one-stop support for:

• Event planning and business design
• Coordination with government agencies and permit acquisition
• Participant recruitment and promotion
• Sponsor recruitment and management
• Planning and arrangement of original event materials
• On-site event operations and safety management
• Collaboration with schools, community organizations, and volunteers
• Photography, video production, and post-event evaluation

If you are considering organizing a sports competition or event in Hawaii, contact JTB Hawaii from the planning stage. We can help turn your objectives into an engaging and well-managed event while providing the local expertise and coordination needed to make it happen.