#Japan #XR Technology #Shinjuku #San-X #Sumikko Gurashi

Sumikko Gurashi Brings XR Experience to Shinjuku

The cute and quirky characters of Sumikko Gurashi are set to make their grand debut in Shinjuku, with an exciting new extended reality (XR) content titled "Funwari Time." This vibrant display will be broadcast starting from June 2, 2025, at the impressive Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision.

San-X Co., Ltd., the company behind Sumikko Gurashi, has teamed up with Odakyu Agency to create an engaging experience for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Using the latest in XR technology, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the heartwarming world of Sumikko Gurashi like never before.

Discovering Sumikko Gurashi

Since its inception in 2012, Sumikko Gurashi has captured the hearts of fans with its relatable themes. The characters embody traits that many people can identify with—preferring the corners of cafes or public transport. This garners a charm that goes beyond mere cuteness, appealing to a broad audience.

With a rich history of collaboration, San-X seeks to leverage out-of-home (OOH) advertising in their latest venture. The partnership with Odakyu Agency aims not only to raise awareness of the Sumikko characters but also to create a positive brand image and significantly enhance engagement.

The XR Experience

The content can be enjoyed in two distinct ways. The first method employs the Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision AR camera. By simply pointing a smartphone at the screen, viewers can interact with special AR content tied to the Sumikko Gurashi display. This technology utilizes GPS and smartphone camera capabilities to fuse digital visuals with the real-world environment. While the iPhone users can start experiencing this on June 2, Android users can look forward to a summer release.

The second option is the 'Anywhere AR Camera' feature that allows fans to bring Sumikko Gurashi characters into their homes or any location outside. This feature offers a customizable experience where users can resize and interact with their favorite characters, making things more engaging and fun.

Funwari Time: A Soft Place for City Dwellers

"Funwari Time" aims to bring a moment of tranquility to the bustling environment of Shinjuku. Visitors passing through this lively area will have the opportunity to pause and indulge in content designed to soothe and relax the mind.

The Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision features a large L-shaped LED monitor, ensuring that the charming visuals captivate anyone nearby. With hours of operation between 7 AM and 11 PM, the display promises to provide a delightful escape for city dwellers.

The Future of OOH Advertising

Odakyu Agency is pioneering the integration of XR technology within OOH advertising frameworks. The traditional model of advertisement dissemination—which has often been passive—will evolve into an interactive experience that invites audiences to engage actively with the promoted content. This transformation not only enhances viewer interaction but also promises broader implications for the future of advertising.

In every interaction with Sumikko Gurashi, audiences are sure to find relatable quirks and gentle humor—characteristics that have made these figures beloved across generations. Their essence of calmness and comfort continues to shine brightly, reflecting a growing appreciation for soft, heartwarming connections in this fast-paced world.

For more details on this experience, visit the official site.

About San-X

San-X, a company known for creating over 1,000 original characters such as Rilakkuma and Tamagotchi, delights fans worldwide with a blend of cute and subtly humorous designs. With every new character born, they maintain a commitment to charm and engagement through various products and media, continually capturing wider audiences.

Stay updated with Sumikko Gurashi via their official channel and discover more about their exciting new content.

Don’t miss the chance to experience an unforgettable blend of technology and heartwarming characters at Shinjuku Southern Terrace!