Yokohama Marine Tower and Its 65th Anniversary Celebration
Yokohama Marine Tower, a landmark of the city since 1961, is embarking on a new journey as it celebrates its 65th anniversary. This iconic tower, managed by a consortium led by List Properties, will introduce "WOUDIO," a cutting-edge multilingual audio guide developed by NOSIGNER. This initiative aims to enrich visitors' experiences and showcase the beauty of Yokohama in a new light.
Beginning from June 2, 2026, coinciding with Yokohama's Port Opening Memorial Day, guests can enjoy the official audio guide titled "Yokohama 360°". This innovative service provides a curated audio experience that covers major sightseeing spots visible from the observation deck of the tower. Available in eight languages, users can access informative audio guidance simply by scanning QR codes, eliminating the need for any app downloads.
What is WOUDIO?
WOUDIO is not just a typical audio guide; it embodies a platform that brings stories of local history, culture, and landscapes directly to visitors' smartphones. The brainchild of NOSIGNER’s founder, Eisuke Tachikawa, this project represents the firm’s first startup venture. WOUDIO stands for combining “World” and “Audio,” with initiatives designed to transmit the world’s voices through language.
By integrating technology, WOUDIO enhances cultural exchange and facilitates deeper connections between tourists and the destinations they explore. The platform also serves an essential function for safety; it includes a multilingual navigation system to guide users to the nearest evacuation points in case of emergencies.
The Experience of Yokohama 360°
"Yokohama 360°" is the very first case of WOUDIO being fully implemented as a tourist guide. This initiative not only allows visitors to see Yokohama from the observation deck but offers them the chance to learn in-depth stories that connect to what they observe. For instance, as visitors look out at the Bay Bridge, they can inquire, “What ship couldn’t pass under that bridge?” or explore hidden tales about Yamashita Park.
The guide presents 20 distinct