Experience the Unique Awa Odori Festival in Shibuya with AR Technology

Bringing the Awa Odori to Life with AR

In an exciting blend of technology and tradition, Synclayer Inc. (TSE Standard: 1724), known for its role in broadcasting and communication solutions, is set to provide Augmented Reality (AR) services for an Awa Odori event in Shibuya. The event, titled '2025 THE AWAODORI - Prologue - The Spirit of Tokushima Dances in Shibuya,' will be held on June 21, 2025, at the Shibuya Stream Hall and the Inaribashi Plaza.

AR-Powered Experience

As part of this groundbreaking event, participants will have the opportunity to witness dancing posters come to life. By simply pointing their smartphones at the posters displayed at the venue, attendees can watch AR videos where dancers share their passion and the beauty of Awa Odori, allowing everyone to feel the stories embedded in the dance.
The technology utilized, known as WebAR, enables users to access it directly through a web browser without needing to download an additional app. This ensures that people of all ages can easily join in the experience with just a smartphone in hand.

What is WebAR?

In short, WebAR refers to AR experiences that can be accessed via web browsers. This type of platform eliminates the inconveniences associated with needing to download an application, which can deter people due to reasons such as the hassle of managing additional apps or concerns about mobile data usage. By focusing on developing WebAR content, Synclayer aims to make engaging experiences accessible for everyone.

The Rich History of Awa Odori

Awa Odori is a celebrated traditional dance festival from Tokushima, boasting a history of over 400 years. Held annually in August, it transforms the city of Tokushima into a vibrant celebration of music and dance. Known for the slogan, “Dancing fools and watching fools,” the festival features dancers who gracefully move through the streets in tune with the lively sounds of traditional instruments. With participation open to all, it embodies a communal spirit, engaging various 'ren' teams comprising people of all ages and backgrounds.
However, recent challenges such as urban depopulation and an aging society have led to a shortage of dancers, raising concerns for the festival's sustainability. To address this, Synclayer is committed to supporting the preservation and growth of Japanese culture by offering innovative AR services.

Collaborative Efforts and Vision

According to a representative from Nihon Digital Broadcasting Inc., collaborating with Cable Television Tokushima under the 'satonoka Project' has resulted in a successful integration of broadcasting, reality, and communications. Since 2023, they have expanded the reach of Awa Odori through live broadcasts, leading to this collaborative event in Shibuya, signaling a significant promotional effort toward revitalizing the festival.
The AR posters will be placed in an accessible area where anyone can freely drop by. This initiative aims to forge connections between the dancers and the audience, fostering a deeper appreciation and love for the traditional dance. The team hopes that this experience will inspire participation in the Awa Odori festivities slated for August in Tokushima.

Event Highlights

The '2025 THE AWAODORI - Prologue - The Spirit of Tokushima Dances in Shibuya' is a significant event designed to provide a genuine Awa Odori experience in the Tokyo area. Among the highlights will be performances by a select group of dancers known as 'Senbatsu-ren,' representing famed dance troupes from the Awa Odori Promotion Association.
Participants can also expect a range of activities in a freely accessible area, including displays of historic Awa Odori posters, photo opportunities, and a local market offering tourism information and Tokushima’s specialty foods.

Event Details

- Date: June 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM
- Venue: Shibuya Stream Hall (4F-6F) / Inaribashi Plaza, Shibuya, Tokyo
- Sponsors: Nihon Digital Broadcasting Inc., Awa Odori Future Execution Committee, Cable Television Tokushima Inc.

For further details about the event, please check the official website. Synclayer remains dedicated to leveraging AR technology as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance regional digital transformation services.