Shaping the Future of Local Governments: “Regional Revitalization Metaverse Award” Briefing Report
On December 19, 2024, GARDE hosted an informational session for local governments regarding the Regional Revitalization Metaverse Award. The event was attended by municipalities from across Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa.
During the session, Misawa from GARDE, the project manager, emphasized that the Metaverse is more than just a virtual space—it serves as a powerful tool for showcasing regional attractions and contributing to economic and cultural development. Furthermore, the importance of collaboration between local governments and creators was highlighted, stressing that innovative ideas can help solve regional challenges and drive sustainable growth.
Examples of Other Companies Utilizing the Metaverse
In recent years, promotional activities leveraging the Metaverse by local governments have been gaining attention. This trend is driven by advancements in digital technology, restrictions on offline events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and an increasing number of municipalities focusing on supporting regional migration by targeting the younger demographic, who are the primary users of the Metaverse.
Below are some examples of projects that have been implemented to promote regional revitalization through the Metaverse.
[Fujieda City, Shizuoka Prefecture] Metaverse Business Matching Fair
Fujieda City hosted a Metaverse-based experiential business matching fair. Participants could visit virtual corporate booths within the Metaverse space and engage in real-time voice conversations with avatars acting as company representatives. Unlike traditional face-to-face business matching events, this initiative provided an immersive and realistic atmosphere, enabling a new form of business networking.
[Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture] Promoting Furusato Tax Donations in a Virtual Space
Hagi City, in collaboration with SPECTRUM, launched the “Hagi City x SPECTRUM Metaverse Furusato Tax Donation Campaign.” Visitors could experience furusato tax donations in a Metaverse environment, where they were welcomed by Hagi City’s official mascot, “Haginyan.” The virtual space featured 360 return gift items, allowing users to explore various booths in a friendly and engaging setting. Digital posters placed throughout the venue enabled visitors to access the donation website directly and make contributions on the spot.
[Akita Prefecture] Metaverse Expo to Promote Regional Migration
Akita Prefecture launched the “Akita Migration & Exchange Metaverse Expo” to promote relocation to the region. The Metaverse exhibition was divided into six distinct regional areas, each visually showcasing its unique characteristics in a 3D environment. Visitors could explore the virtual space using avatars inspired by local symbols, such as “Ndacchi” and Akita Inu dogs. This interactive setup allowed visitors to gain insights into regional features while enjoying various immersive experiences.
Regional Revitalization Metaverse Award Details
Call for Entry
This award invites a wide range of ideas that utilize the Metaverse for regional revitalization, including:
- Tourism Promotion
- Sports Activation
- Local Product Sales
- Encouraging Regional Settlement
- VR Job Training
- Other innovative ideas contributing to regional revitalization
Application Guidelines
- Theme: Ideas that achieve “regional revitalization through the use of Metaverse technology.”
- Application Period: November 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Applicants can be individuals or groups.
- As of November 1, 2024, applicants must be high school students or older residing in Japan.
- If applying as a group, all members must meet the eligibility requirements and provide consent for participation.
- Number of Entries:
- Each participant (or group) can submit one entry specifying a local government or one general entry without specifying a municipality.
- If applying as a group, each group is limited to one entry.
- Application Conditions:
- Applicants must agree to and comply with the Regional Revitalization Metaverse Award application guidelines.
Prize Details
- Grand Prize (1 Winner): 3 million JPY
- Excellence Award (1 Winner): 1 million JPY
- Local Government Award (4 Winners): 250,000 JPY each
※ The judging process will be conducted internally at GARDE and will remain confidential.
※ Details regarding the award ceremony will be announced at a later date.
GARDE, leveraging its global network and extensive expertise in design, aims to create new value for local communities. By fostering creative Metaverse-based ideas, we strive to contribute to regional revitalization and problem-solving. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that shape a more vibrant and sustainable future.
Official Website:
https://garde-metaverse-award.com/
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