#Japan #Tokyo #Geospatial Data #OGC Japan Forum #JACIC

OGC Japan Forum Kicks Off Research Project

The OGC Japan Forum has recently been selected for a research grant from the Japan Construction Information Center (JACIC). This initiative aims to address the fragmentation of geospatial data by deploying a collaborative environment built on the OGC API server, enabling widespread data sharing and reuse. The project will promote the development of digital twins based on diverse spatial data, crucial for various smart city applications.

The OGC Japan Forum, an advocate of the international NGO Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) in Japan, will focus on leveraging OGC API standards to enhance the accessibility and integration of geospatial information. This project is a significant step towards resolving one of the major challenges facing Japan’s digital twin and smart city initiatives—the fragmentation of data.

By constructing a server that complies with the latest international standards, the forum will launch a demonstrative project at their data center, implementing various geospatial data across Japan. This not only facilitates an open data-sharing society but also addresses critical societal issues such as inefficiencies in urban planning and disaster response.

Addressing Data Silos

Currently, geospatial data, including topography, 3D building models (BIM data), and urban activity indicators (GIS data), exists in silos, managed by different formats and systems. This fragmentation results in decreased precision in disaster simulations, inefficient urban planning, and increased infrastructure maintenance costs. The OGC API serves as a common language for overcoming these format differences, allowing for seamless data retrieval and combination by all stakeholders involved.

By implementing this data-sharing infrastructure, the forum envisions a future characterized by:

• - Increased accuracy in disaster prevention and mitigation: Overlapping ground data, 3D building models, and realtime disaster information will enable more realistic evacuation simulations.
• - Efficient smart city management: Integrating infrastructure and human flow data will allow for better predictions and optimization in traffic congestion and energy use.
• - Acceleration of innovation: By fostering an environment for free data combination, private enterprises can quickly create new services.

This foundation aims to ensure that Japan’s digital twin vision does not just remain an unachievable goal but becomes a functioning part of reality.

Engaging the Community for Future Development

The forum aims to engage a broad community in this endeavor. The greatest goal of this project is to attract new members who resonate with this vision. Addressing the complex challenges faced in society necessitates a gathering of diverse knowledge and expertise. Thus, OGC Japan Forum will serve as a hub for open technological development, discussion, and practical application through this demonstrative project.

Invitation to Enterprises and Researchers

Companies and government entities have a rare opportunity to explore how their technologies and data can contribute to building a future societal foundation. For engineers and researchers, this project represents a frontline experience with the latest international standards, empowering them to shape the future of data integration in Japan.

Join us to learn, create, and lead Japan into a new digital era of society. Your participation is invaluable.

Kickoff Meetup Details

In conjunction with the project launch, we will be hosting a meetup to share insights on our envisioned future and the technical challenges ahead. Everyone is invited to attend.

• - Event Name: The Frontlines of Urban 3D Digital Twins! Renowned Experts from Around the World Visit
• - Date: September 6, 2025 (Saturday) at 1:30 PM
• - Location: Tokyo Innovation Base (TiB) + Archive Streaming
• - Co-hosts: OGC Japan Forum & OSGeo Japan Chapter (OSGeo.JP)
• - Participation Fee: ¥2,000
• - More Details & Registration: Register here

About the Organizations

Japan Construction Information Center (JACIC)

JACIC conducts research and development related to information systems that facilitate smooth execution of construction projects and contributes to the efficiency of construction technology through information dissemination.
Visit JACIC

Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC)

OGC is an international industry association focusing on establishing open standards to enhance interoperability in geospatial information and services across various sectors.

OGC Japan Forum

A community organization facilitating collaboration between stakeholders in Japan and the OGC headquarters, advancing technical contributions and standardization efforts.

OSGeo Japan Chapter (OSGeo.JP)

The Japanese branch of the international non-profit OSGeo Foundation promoting open-source geospatial software and supporting user and developer communities.

Contact for Inquiries

For more information regarding this initiative, please reach out to the OGC Japan Forum Secretariat at [email protected] (Contacts: Yano, Imai).