#Japan #Digital Transformation #well-being #Shibuya #Shibuya City

Shibuya's Vision: A Transformative Approach to Urban Living

On November 5, 2025, the Japan Planning Institute (JPI) is set to host a significant seminar titled "Well-Being x DX: Shibuya's Unique Approach to Next-Generation Urban Development." This event will feature a guest lecture from Yoshiko Matsuzawa, the Deputy Mayor of Shibuya. The seminar aims to explore how the principles of Well-Being and digital transformation (DX) can redefine urban life in Shibuya.

The theme of the seminar centers around Shibuya's foundational concept, "Turning Differences into Strengths." This philosophy emphasizes inclusivity and the unique attributes of the Shibuya community as pivotal elements in enhancing the Well-Being of its residents. Matsuzawa will discuss various initiatives and policies that epitomize this vision, along with insights gained from a Well-Being survey conducted in Shibuya.

Seminar Highlights

Understanding Well-Being in Shibuya

Matsuzawa will delve into the definition of Well-Being within the Shibuya context, highlighting key findings from the community survey on Well-Being, which identifies specific challenges and strengths of Shibuya residents. Moreover, the session will showcase Shibuya's efforts to develop international indicators for Well-Being, emphasizing how data-driven strategies can enhance urban life.

Examples of Initiatives

Several innovative projects will be presented, illustrating how Shibuya capitalizes on DX and data utilization to improve community services. Initiatives include:

• - Educational Advancement: Leveraging technology for inquiry-based learning, ensuring accessibility in education.
• - City Dashboard & Health Data Utilization: Future developments aimed at enhancing data health for residents.
• - Digital Currency and Local Services: The implementation of the local digital currency "Hachipay" to stimulate the economy.
• - Demand-Responsive Transportation Trials: Innovations in transport that cater to residents' needs.
• - Active Senior Engagement: Empowering seniors through the Shibuya Hachiko University initiative.
• - Sustainable Urban Planning: Tackling the challenges of over-tourism while maintaining the city's appeal and cleanliness.
• - Startups and Community Solutions: Collaboration with local startups to address urban issues.
• - Public-Private Partnerships: Promoting community wellness actions through collaborative efforts.
• - Disaster Preparedness & Digital Solutions: Trials for disaster apps and efficient evacuation management.
• - Citizen Voice Integration: Methods for incorporating public feedback into municipal governance through surveys and digital democracy.

Employee Well-Being in Focus

The seminar will also address the Well-Being of Shibuya's civil servants. With reforms aimed at enhancing workplace diversity and promoting telework, the focus is on improving work-life balance among city staff. Additionally, the promotion of DX initiatives, including the use of generative AI and the advancement of online procedures, will be discussed.

Open Discussion and Networking

After the lecture, there will be a Q&A session, allowing for interaction between participants and the speaker. This networking opportunity is designed to foster connections that could lead to potential collaborations and business ventures.

Participation Details

Attendees can choose from three participation modes:

• - In-Person Attendance
• - Live Streaming
• - Archive Access (available for two weeks for repeated viewing)

The seminar fee is set at ¥37,640 (including tax) per participant. However, those affiliated with local governments can register up to two attendees for just ¥11,000 each, provided they attend via in-person or live streaming.

About Japan Planning Institute

The Japan Planning Institute has been instrumental in bridging knowledge among government, business, and academia. For over fifty years, it has provided targeted seminars delivering valuable insights for executive and managerial professionals involved in national policy and projects.

For inquiries:
Japan Planning Institute, 5-2-32 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
Tel: 03-5793-9761
Fax: 03-5793-9767
Website: JPI Seminar Information