Connecting Communities: The Launch of Jichitai Metaverse for Local Governments

Introduction

In response to the pressing challenges faced by local governments due to declining populations and a lack of community engagement, J&J Business Development Corporation, a joint venture between JTB Corporation and JCB Co., has announced the launch of the "Jichitai Metaverse" on October 23, 2025. This innovative service, created in collaboration with Cluster Inc., aims to provide a fresh perspective on solving these issues through virtual spaces.

Background and Purpose

Many local governments today are in search of new strategies to enhance resident services and sustain their communities. The population shift to urban areas, a decline in community involvement, and social issues such as isolation and school absences have driven a demand for solutions that can operate regardless of regional location. J&J recognizes the deep understanding of local challenges that the JTB group has developed through its extensive regional network. This led the company to explore the potential of virtual spaces as a means of addressing these concerns effectively.

Service Overview and Key Features

The Jichitai Metaverse combines J&J’s expertise in virtual digital transformation (DX), JTB’s community-centric network, and Cluster’s robust technological infrastructure to create a comprehensive solution for local governments.

Effective DX Initiatives

By utilizing AI avatars in virtual environments, the Jichitai Metaverse allows local governments to handle routine inquiries and basic administrative procedures with a warm and welcoming approach, mirroring real-world interactions. This strategy alleviates the workload on government employees, enabling them to focus on more critical, engaging tasks while enhancing resident satisfaction and emotional connection to their communities.

Accessible Virtual Events

To ease municipalities into the metaverse world without a hefty upfront investment, J&J offers a trial plan that utilizes basic virtual spaces. This trial allows local residents to connect anonymously and without the constraints of time and location, facilitating community engagement and support for students facing educational challenges. Standard events and various consultations can seamlessly transition to the virtual realm, encouraging the initial steps toward digital transformation.

Comprehensive Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Unlike simple space provision, the Jichitai Metaverse aims to blend virtual and real-life experiences, offering ground-breaking solutions tailored to address the fundamental challenges faced by local governments. This innovative approach, rooted in JTB's extensive knowledge, is set to reshape community engagement and enhance interactive opportunities.

First Event Example

To mark the inaugural use of the Jichitai Metaverse, an online event titled "Regional Revitalization Coordinator Recruitment Briefing in the Metaverse" will be held on October 30, creating a platform for exploring local government recruitment initiatives accessible to a nationwide digital-native audience. This event is strategically designed to foster new connections with potential community members that traditional physical events might have missed, thus contributing to ongoing solutions for local governments.

Event Partners

- Organizer: Furusato Kaiki, Migration Exchange Promotion Organization
- Operated by: J&J Business Development Corporation
- For inquiries: [email protected]

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, J&J aims to act as a hub, linking JTB, Cluster, and local governments while developing tailored strategies that resonate with each region's unique challenges. Cluster intends to enhance and expand its metaverse platform, promoting broader community interactions. Simultaneously, JTB plans to leverage its vast sales network and expertise in community engagement to assist in overcoming various municipal issues. Through the collaboration of these three entities, they aspire to resolve common community challenges while fostering contributions to local revitalization and societal value creation.

Partner Companies

J&J Business Development Corporation

- Location: Nagatacho 2-14-2, Sanno Grand Building 8F, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- President: Koichi Nomoto
- Founded: July 13, 2006
- Services: Designing and supporting metaverse strategies based on local revitalization and education expertise.