#Japan #Tokyo #Aqua Ignis #Clear Sight #AGC Glass

Improving Tourist Experiences with Low-Reflective Glass

Aqua Ignis Co., based in Kyobashi, Tokyo, is on an innovative journey to enhance the visitor experience in tourism and accommodation facilities. They are conducting a practical experiment utilizing low-reflective glass, namely AGC's Clear Sight® II, to minimize reflective noise that can detract from guest experiences. This initiative, guided by MSD Co. in Minato, Tokyo, is set to run from April 15 to June 15, 2025.

Aqua Ignis focuses on blending healing, food, and art to create resort facilities that contribute to regional economic revitalization and the promotion of tourism. The sites involved in the experiments are two of their unique offerings:

• - VISON (ヴィソン): Located in the town of Taki, Mie Prefecture, VISON is a comprehensive resort that brings together renowned chefs and artisans from both Japan and abroad. It features diverse dining options, accommodation, and experiential facilities that showcase local food culture and traditional crafts to the world.

• - Hacienda Vison: This is the world's first accommodation designed by The Conran Shop Japan, established by British designer Terence Conran. The space emphasizes harmony with nature, offering a refined atmosphere and a luxurious stay, drawing rave reviews from guests.

• - Yunoyama Sosuikyo (湯の山 素粋居): Situated close to the famous Yunoyama Onsen in Komono, Mie Prefecture, this lodging facility is characterized by its meticulous spatial design by architects and designers, aiming for a tranquil environment that harmonizes with nature. It's designed to provide deep relaxation and healing to its guests.

The Clear Sight® II glass used in the experiments has exceptional performance in reducing reflections compared to standard glass. It allows for enhanced transparency and visibility, receiving high acclaim in spaces where visual quality is essential, such as exhibition halls, commercial areas, and accommodations.

The objective of this experiment is rooted in addressing consumer insights related to visual disturbances caused by reflections. By reducing reflective noise with the introduction of low-reflective glass, Aqua Ignis aims to enhance the user experience by improving visual connections both inside and outside the facilities. This means that visitors will be able to enjoy the environment and landscapes without the stress caused by glass reflections.

Real-Life Challenges Addressed

1. One issue hotel guests experience is when reflections obstruct their desired photos, often revealing staff members or other unintended objects in the background. This leads to staff directing guests to different locations for photography, rather than their chosen spots.

2. Another common problem arises at night when guests look outside to enjoy the night view. Reflections can obscure the beauty of the scenery, and capturing photos of the landscape becomes a challenge due to glare, ultimately diminishing the overall value of the experience.

Trial Implementations

The partial implementation of low-reflective glass in the aforementioned facilities is already showing promise. By reinforcing the visual connection between indoor and outdoor environments, the facility can enhance the experience without the interference of reflections, enabling visitors to immerse themselves fully in the spaces and views provided.

The modifications made at both Yunoyama Sosuikyo and Hacienda Vison clearly demonstrate the before-and-after impact of installing low-reflective glass, underscoring the significance of this initiative in improving tourist experiences.

Future Engagement

We welcome inquiries and requests for interviews or visits to the sites where these architectural trials with low-reflective glass are underway. This allows stakeholders to engage with real-world applications and insights from our ongoing commitment to enhancing visitor experiences through innovative materials.