Exploring Projection Mapping and Regional Revitalization through Okinawa Case Studies

On January 16, 2026, the company Creek & River (C&R) will host a free online seminar aimed at local businesses and government officials, content creators, and individuals interested in utilizing art and content for regional revitalization. The seminar is titled "Independent Director Mikio Sugiura Asks: Art, Content, and Regional Revitalization Series Vol. 18 - How Projection Mapping Can Influence Regional Revitalization: Challenges in Okinawa".

In recent years, various regions across Japan have begun to focus on cultural policies and regional revitalization strategies using creative content. However, many local officials and community members struggle with understanding or explaining the tangible outcomes of cultural policies. C&R aims to address this gap by organizing a series of seminars for those who are new to cultural policy initiatives and for creators and businesses interested in making proposals in this area.

In this series, Mikio Sugiura, an independent director, will engage diverse guests who excel in the arts and culture sector. They will discuss the effectiveness of regional revitalization efforts, the relationship between government bodies and culture, and deeper elements like the planning, implementation, and evaluation of cultural policies.

In the upcoming sessions, particularly the 18th and 19th, the focus will be twofold: the increasingly popular practice of projection mapping across Japan and its potential role in attracting tourists, particularly inbound visitors, and promoting night culture. Furthermore, we will explore whether projection mapping can become an integrated part of local culture in the future.

A notable feature of this seminar will be Yuuichi Ide, the CEO of Sugar Train, Inc., who will share insights grounded in the challenges and successes of implementing projection mapping projects at Shuri Castle, which was lost to fire. He will provide a narrative on the significance of projection mapping in Okinawa, outlining its merits and future directions.

Seminar Details

This engaging session will include presentations from the guest speaker, followed by discussions related to the case studies of regional revitalization, their impacts, and creative strategies employed during planning and execution. Please note that the seminar content may change without prior notice.

Recommended for:

- Creators interested in local development, revitalization, and urban planning.
- Creators considering relocating to rural areas.
- Individuals interested in working within governmental roles related to content creation.
- Local businesses and government staff engaged in regional revitalization efforts.

Event Information

- Date: January 16, 2026
- Time: 19:00 – 20:00 (JST)
- Location: Online (Zoom)
- Moderator: Mikio Sugiura, Independent Director

With a background in art studies from the Tokyo University of the Arts and a master's degree in urban development from Osaka City University, Mikio Sugiura has been instrumental in cultural policy within various arts councils, including the Okinawa Arts Council and Niigata Arts Council. Additionally, Yuuichi Ide, the guest speaker, born in 1966 in Okinawa, graduated from Toyo University. After gaining experience in a visual design company in Tokyo, he returned to his roots to establish a visual production company that emphasizes a local perspective in showcasing Okinawa’s charm.

The seminar is free but limited to 60 participants. To register, please visit the provided link. The registration will close on January 16, 2026, at 20:00.

C&R has been a pioneer in creator agency services since its founding in 1990, continuously striving to create an environment where creators can flourish. We invite you to join us in this thought-provoking discussion on the future of regional culture through innovative methods like projection mapping. For more information regarding other seminars and mentoring offerings, please check our website.