Morph inn Shimokitazawa: A purpose-free room. Immerse Yourself in Soft Robotics and Experience True Emptiness as a Service.

Following the success of our experimental locations in Omotesando (May 2024) and Toranomon Hills ARCH (August 2024), Morph inn Shimokitazawa will open at Keio Electric Railway’s Mikan Shimokita from November 28 (Thu) to December 20 (Fri), 2024, with reservations now available.

Building on past feedback, we are refining the concept of "time to be purpose-free" and offering it as a service. In collaboration with innovative companies that resonate with this philosophy, we introduce experiences such as "Breathable Tea," "Neuro Music," and "ZZZN NATURE" (a virtual forest bath).

By maximizing the value of this state of emptiness, we aim to cultivate a new cultural movement alongside sauna, zazen, and meditation—together with our co-creation partners.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000039.000057032.html

Konel Wins 2024 Good Design Award in Three Categories

Konel, a creative collective based in Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Niigata, has received the 2024 Good Design Award for three projects in branding and product design.

Awarded Projects:
・COPLEC – "Celebrate Factories with Pride" Initiative
・Morph – A Soft Robotics Innovation
・PASSTO – Advancing a Zero-Waste Society

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000037.000057032.html

Morph inn Opens in Omotesando, Recreating the Motion of Nature in a Purpose-Free Space

Bridgestone Soft Robotics Ventures, an in-house startup of Bridgestone, has launched a co-creation project to deliver future experiences. At its core is Morph, a soft robot powered by rubber artificial muscles.

From May 17 (Fri) to May 25 (Sat), 2024, the Morph inn purpose-free space will be open, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in this innovative environment.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000036.000057032.html

SLEEP SOUND LABEL ZZZN Launched on World Sleep Day

On March 15, 2024 (World Sleep Day), NTT East, NTT DX Partner, and Konel launched SLEEP SOUND LABEL ZZZN through the Sleep Network Hub "ZAKONE", exploring the intersection of sleep and music.

As the label's first release, "ZZZN EP Vol.1" is now available for streaming.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000035.000057032.html

International Award: Dai Miyata of Konel Wins World OMOSIROI Award

Konel co-founder and creative director Dai Miyata has been named one of five recipients of this year's World OMOSIROI Award.

Official Website: World OMOSIROI Award

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000034.000057032.html

Co-Hosting “TECHNO PIZZA x 3L night” with Ricoh – A Cutting-Edge Tech Experience

Konel is co-hosting the second edition of TECHNO PIZZA, an event showcasing future technology, with Ricoh. This in-person experience, held on January 26, 2024 (Fri), offers a chance to explore and interact with prototypes from both teams.

This edition, "TECHNO PIZZA x 3L night," will take place at RICOH 3L, Ricoh’s experimental workspace in Ota City, Tokyo. The event will also feature a talk session where both teams discuss the future of work powered by technology.

Free Registration: TECHNO PIZZA #2

Top 10 Innovations Honored in "Chizai Ranking 2023"

Chizai Zukan has announced the results of "Chizai Ranking 2023," an award recognizing groundbreaking technologies that drive global progress. The initiative aims to highlight these innovations to business professionals, creators, and investors worldwide.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000035.000052909.html

"FUCHAT" – AI Video Letters from the Future Now Open to the Public

In collaboration with Business Design Node Inc., we developed FUCHAT, a system that delivers AI-generated video letters from your future self based on five key user inputs.

After a beta launch at a corporate event in September 2023, where over 1,200 people participated, FUCHAT gained significant attention, with social media videos of the experience surpassing 20,000 views in the first week.

Now enhanced with new updates, FUCHAT will be publicly available for the first time at HANAZONO EXPO, held at Hanazono Central Park in Higashiosaka from November 3. The system will be installed in Daicel Corporation’s exhibit area, where visitors can try the interactive demo for free.

HANAZONO EXPO Official Site: HANAZONO EXPO (Free admission & experience)
FUCHAT Details: FUCHAT

Talking Toy Box "Guuguu Monster" Launches Crowdfunding Campaign

We have developed Guuguu Monster, a talking toy box that "eats" toys, making chewing sounds and playful reactions in response.

Designed in collaboration with a toy consultant, Guuguu Monster is an interactive cleanup companion that helps toddlers during their Terrible Twos by turning tidying up into an entertaining activity.

Konel and Takamura Industries teamed up to bring this idea to life, using a smartphone and cardboard to create a talking toy box. The crowdfunding campaign begins on October 11 (Wed) on CAMPFIRE

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000031.000057032.html

Fun Snack: “Ku Neru Asobu” Now Available

We've created Ku Neru Asobu, a new kind of snack experience that combines sweets, a game sheet, and an app—allowing you to eat (ku), think (neru), and play (asobu).

To bring more fun and creativity to snack time, we are launching sales through our online store and wholesale distribution.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000030.000057032.html

Chizai Zukan × Taica: Bringing "Touchable Ogasawara" to Life

Chizai Zukan and Taica Corporation (Headquarters: Minato, Tokyo; President: Daito Suzuki) have developed the concept of a "Touchable Zoo", utilizing Taica’s proprietary multi-functional material, αGEL, which replicates various textures.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000033.000052909.html

"WEATHER TWIN" – A Light Installation Connected to Local Weather Data

We have developed WEATHER TWIN, a lighting installation that changes its expression in real-time based on the local weather, temperature, wind speed, and wind direction.

Designed for large-scale architecture, its first installation was permanently placed at SEE SEA PARK, a commercial complex in Oi Town, Fukui Prefecture, in April 2023, following the park’s opening in July 2022.

More about WEATHER TWIN: WEATHER TWIN

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000029.000057032.html

Inaugural "Tech Direction Awards" Celebrate Outstanding Technical Direction Worldwide

Chizai Zukan has joined the Tech Direction Awards as a media partner. Established in 2023 by the Technical Directors Association, this award recognizes exceptional technical direction projects from both Japan and around the world.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000032.000052909.html

Brainwave Buyout Center (BWTC) to Tour Kanazawa’s "FOC"

The Brainwave Buyout Center (BWTC), an initiative that purchases brainwaves from the public and monetizes the data, will begin its first tour on June 17, 2023.

During the event, an automated buyout machine will collect visitors’ brainwaves, which will then be transformed into brainwave-generated artwork using a proprietary program. These artworks will be available for purchase at various prices.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000028.000057032.html

"Scent and Memory: A Possible Future" – A Scent x Brainwave Art Event (June 10-11)

In collaboration with Hanamurasaki, a hot spring ryokan in Yamanaka Onsen, Ishikawa, we are hosting "Scent and Memory: A Possible Future", an immersive art event exploring the connection between scent and brainwaves.

The event will take place over two days, June 10 (Sat) – June 11 (Sun), in the ryokan’s library space, which opened in the summer of 2022 and will be specially opened to the public for this occasion.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000027.000057032.html

"Mikan Shimokita" Brand Logo Wins iF DESIGN AWARD 2023

The brand logo design for "Mikan Shimokita", a facility under the Keio Inokashira Line at Shimokitazawa Station, has won the iF DESIGN AWARD 2023 in the Communication category.

Created in partnership with Keio Corporation (Headquarters: Tama, Tokyo; President: Satoshi Miyamura), this design has been recognized by one of the world’s top three design awards.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000026.000057032.html

"Kotoyama Hyakkei" – A 3D-Printed Word Installation at Izu Oshima Camellia Festival

From February 25 (Sat) to February 26 (Sun), 2023, we will co-host "Kotoyama Hyakkei", a network-connected installation event, in collaboration with the Oshima Tourism Association at the Camellia Festival’s Tsubaki Garden venue (41-1 Motomachi Tsubetsuke, Oshima Town, Tokyo

Visitors can experience the installation on-site, participate remotely via a special website, and watch a live-streamed broadcast of the event.

Kotoyama Hyakkei Special Site: https://www.kotoyama100kei.com/

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000016.000057032.html

"Bipass" – A Web Media Platform for Like-Minded Innovators Opens

On January 24, 2023, Chizai Zukan and Daicel Corporation (Headquarters: Osaka, President: Yoshimi Ogoh) opened "Bipass", a web media platform designed to connect individuals who share a common vision and drive value co-creation.

Explore new pathways for resources with Bipass: https://bipass.daicel.com/

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000031.000052909.html

"ZZZN - LISTEN AND SLEEP -" to Be Held on March 18 at Yoshiike Ryokan, Hakone

In collaboration with NTT East (President: Naoki Shibuya) and NTT DX Partner (President: Tamaki Endo), we will host "ZZZN - LISTEN AND SLEEP -", a live music experience designed for falling asleep, on March 18, 2023 (World Sleep Day).

The event will take place at the historic Yoshiike Ryokan in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, offering guests a unique way to drift into sleep through live performance.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000025.000057032.html

"Moso to Gugen / Imagination and Realization" – A Guide to Open Innovation for Future Business Now Available

Konel and the innovation media platform Chizai Zukan, which explores the future through technology, have co-authored "Moso to Gugen / Imagination and Realization: Dual-Cast – Open Innovation Techniques for Leading Future Business", published by Nikkei BP.

The book will be available for online purchase on Amazon starting January 14, 2023 (Sat) and will gradually roll out to bookstores nationwide.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000024.000057032.html

Sleep-Inducing Playlist Sasayaki Lullaby Proven to Improve Sleep Quality

In collaboration with Sony Music Japan International, Sasayaki Lullaby, a bedtime-exclusive playlist launched on World Sleep Day, was studied to examine the effects of music on sleep.

Through joint research with NTT East and BrainSleep Inc., a company specializing in brain and sleep science, the study confirmed that Sasayaki Lullaby may contribute to improved sleep onset latency and sleep efficiency.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000022.000057032.html

"QUON" – Traditional Geta Reimagined from Textile Waste, Debuts at DESIGNART TOKYO 2022

We have developed "QUON", a pair of geta sandals crafted from upcycled textile waste, including discarded clothing and bedding materials.

The design will be publicly unveiled at DESIGNART TOKYO 2022 on October 21, 2022 (Fri), where made-to-order production will also begin.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000023.000057032.html

"Mikan Shimokita" Brand Design Wins Red Dot Award 2022

The brand design for "Mikan Shimokita", a facility under the Keio Inokashira Line at Shimokitazawa Station, has won the prestigious Red Dot Award at the Red Dot Design Award 2022, one of the world's top three design accolades.

The project was developed in partnership with Keio Corporation (Headquarters: Tama, Tokyo; President: Satoshi Miyamura).

＜プレスリリース＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000021.000057032.html

"Log Flower" – A Sentient Plant That Grows with Room Ambience, Co-Developed with Tokyu Agency

As a development partner in Tokyu Agency’s (Headquarters: Minato, Tokyo; President: Naoyuki Shibuya) "GG (Tentative)" project, which explores near-future ideas, we have co-developed "Log Flower", an "emotional plant" that grows based on a room’s mood.

The prototype has been developed, and we are pleased to announce the release of its beta version.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000020.000057032.html

Brainwave Buyout Center (BWTC) Launches "Metaverse Store"

Konel’s Brainwave Buyout Center (BWTC) is opening the BWTC Metaverse Store, coinciding with BWTC Trade Week, a brainwave buyout event held at Arts Chiyoda 3331 from July 30.

The store will feature limited-edition NFT artworks generated from the brainwave data of five experts, offering a unique fusion of neuroscience and digital art.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000010.000057032.html

Creative Studio "Sunabako" Opens at Mikan Shimokita

On July 28 (Thu), the creative studio "Sunabako" officially opened in E District of Mikan Shimokita, the facility beneath Shimokitazawa Station.

Alongside the studio launch, the metaverse space "Sunaverse" also went live on the official website.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000019.000057032.html

Brainwave Buyout Center Arrives in Tokyo

The BWTC Trade Week is coming to Arts Chiyoda 3331, where visitors can sell their brainwaves at a rate of ¥1,000 per 100 seconds, with a maximum payout of ¥1 million.

The event will also feature an exhibition and sale of brainwave-generated artworks, created through a proprietary program.

July 30 (Sat) – August 7 (Sun), 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000018.000057032.html

"NEO TOKYO PUNKS" × "CryptoBar P2P" – Collaborative Event Produced

Chizai Zukan, together with Konel, has planned and produced "NEO TOKYO BAR 2050", a collaborative event between CryptoBar P2P, an NFT membership-based crypto bar in Ginza, and the NFT collection NEO TOKYO PUNKS.

From July 1 to July 31, 2022, the exclusive bar will be transformed with futuristic experiences, bringing a near-future atmosphere to this hidden gem.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000030.000052909.html

Konel, Chizai Zukan, NEC, Osaka University, and MaiND Lab Jointly Research SHUTTER Glass Using Mental Templates

Chizai Zukan, in collaboration with NEC Future Creation Conference and Konel, has explored and visualized new applications for "Experience Net", a concept proposed for the Beyond 5G era that enables the distribution of not only information but also experiences.

One of the key ideas born from this initiative—SHUTTER Glass, glasses that bookmark overlooked beauty—has now moved beyond concept. Following its initial presentation, it has been realized through joint research and prototype development with NEC and other partners.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000015.000057032.html

Chizai Zukan and NEC Future Creation Conference Bring "Experience Net" Concept to Life

Chizai Zukan, in collaboration with NEC Future Creation Conference and Konel, has explored and visualized new applications for "Experience Net", a concept proposed for the Beyond 5G era that enables the distribution of not only information but also experiences.

One of the key ideas born from this initiative—SHUTTER Glass, glasses that bookmark overlooked beauty—has now moved beyond concept. Following its initial presentation, it has been realized through joint research and prototype development with NEC and other partners.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000029.000052909.html

Co-Creating Regional Revitalization Project "Kotoyama Hyakkei" with Panasonic FUTURE LIFE FACTORY

Panasonic Design Headquarters' FUTURE LIFE FACTORY has developed "Kotoyama Hyakkei," a project that connects people remotely while uncovering new local tourism resources and cultural attractions.

As a project partner, we collaborated with McCann Alpha (a business co-creation unit of McCann Erickson, led by CEO Hiroaki Mori) and MagnaRecta (led by CEO Kaoru Yamagai) to bring this initiative to life.

Kotoyama Hyakkei Special Site: https://www.kotoyama100kei.com/

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000014.000057032.html

Bedtime Playlist Sasayaki Lullaby Debuts on World Sleep Day

On March 18, 2022 (World Sleep Day), Konel and Sony Music Japan International launched the sleep-inducing playlist project Sasayaki Lullaby.

The first release is a whispered cover of One Direction’s hit song "What Makes You Beautiful." Starting today, a new track will be released every week for five consecutive weeks on various music streaming platforms.

YouTube: Listen here
Special Website: https://sasayakilullaby.com/

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000013.000057032.html

"Mikan Shimokita" Opening Celebration – Experimental Monochrome Branding at Shimokitazawa Station

To commemorate the opening of "Mikan Shimokita," a new facility beneath Shimokitazawa Station, Keio Corporation (Headquarters: Tama, Tokyo; President: Yasushi Benimura) is launching an experimental branding initiative.

From March 14 (Mon) to April 17 (Sun), the station interior and Keio Inokashira Line trains will be transformed into a monochrome-themed installation, creating a striking visual experience. The initiative explores new possibilities in large-scale station decoration and branded train wraps.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000012.000057032.html

"Graduation Thesis OPEN AWARD 2022" – Bridging Academia and Society

Chizai Zukan has launched the "Graduation Thesis OPEN AWARD 2022" to foster connections between academic research and real-world applications.

Starting March 9, 2022, the award invites students conducting research with the potential to drive global progress, providing a platform to transition their academic hypotheses into societal impact.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000028.000052909.html

"Evolutionary Thinking" Workshop on the Future of the Printing Industry by 2030 – Report Now on Chizai Zukan

The Heidel Forum 21 Postpress Research Group, in collaboration with NOSIGNER and Chizai Zukan, hosted the workshop "Guiding the Future of Printing – Evolutionary Thinking".

This event brought together printing industry professionals to envision scenarios for the future of printing in 2030. The workshop report is now available on Chizai Zukan.

＜PR＞
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000027.000052909.html