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Advancing Urban Digital Twins: Project PLATEAU RFI#2

On October 1, 2025, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) announced the launch of "Project PLATEAU RFI#2". This initiative calls for the solicitation of ideas related to the implementation of urban digital twins, aiming to gather insights that will enhance the adaptation and integration of 3D urban models in various contexts.

The Project PLATEAU embarked on its journey in 2020 and has focused on showcasing the potential of digital twins in urban environments. As the project transitions from the prototyping phase to actual service implementation, an array of stakeholders, including local governments, private sector players, and community organizations, will play a vital role. Through collaborative efforts, the project aspires to empower these entities in developing, utilizing, and sharing open data of 3D urban models by 2026.

In response to the previously held Request for Information (RFI#1), many innovative ideas were gathered, guiding the development of eight specific solicitation topics for RFI#2. This subsequent Request for Information aims to further refine those concepts by encouraging input on factors like policies, scopes, and technical feasibility.

The submission period for RFI#2 runs from October 1 to October 31, 2025. During this time, businesses, universities, research institutions, and other organizations capable of undertaking the proposed themes are invited to contribute their thoughts.

While this RFI outlines particular themes for the upcoming year, it is essential to note that not all proposed topics will necessarily be adopted as program themes for 2026, and unexpected suggestions may also be considered. If the ideas from this RFI are eventually implemented as initiatives by the Urban Policy Bureau at MLIT, a competitive process will follow for selecting suitable partners. Thus, those who submit ideas will not automatically secure a spot in future projects, and transparency in the selection process will be maintained.

For those interested in submitting input, detailed guidelines and application forms can be found on the official project webpage. Prospective contributors can access the information here: RFI#2 Submission Page.

Background and Context

Project PLATEAU aims to establish urban digital twins by integrating physical and digital landscapes. This initiative aligns with global goals for smart city development and urban resilience in response to contemporary challenges such as climate change and urbanization. An effective digital twin can simulate and analyze potential scenarios, thereby informing policy-making and resource allocation.

As the project advances to its next stage, it is imperative to ensure a collaborative ecosystem where diverse perspectives converge to push the boundaries of what's possible in urban planning. Engaging community and academia is vital for success, enabling the exploration of new ideas that can transform urban living.

In earlier phases of Project PLATEAU, numerous case studies have highlighted the practical applications of 3D models in sectors ranging from transportation and utilities to emergency response and cultural heritage preservation. It is crucial to continue identifying use cases that demonstrate tangible benefits to society, thereby justifying investments and enhancing public trust in digital technologies.

In conclusion, RFI#2 serves as a pivotal opportunity for stakeholders to participate in a transformative journey towards smarter, more sustainable urban environments through the advancement of Project PLATEAU. As we look ahead to 2026, the contributions made during this phase could shape the future of urban living for generations to come.