#Japan #Shinjuku, Tokyo #Disaster Training #AR Disaster #Outdoor Disaster

Online Seminar for Disaster Management Practitioners

The Japan-based organization, AR Disaster Prevention, aims to integrate disaster preparedness into our daily lives using the latest AR and VR technologies. On October 6, 2026, AR Disaster Prevention will host an online seminar targeted at disaster response professionals from local governments, corporations, and educational institutions.

The guest speaker for this seminar, Risu Ando, an outdoor disaster guide and lecturer with firsthand experience from the Hanshin Earthquake, will share insights on creating experiential disaster preparedness events. Participants will learn about practical strategies for planning and executing events that utilize the latest technologies effectively.

Background: Evolving Technology and Persistent Challenges

In recent years, disaster training utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as AR and VR has rapidly gained popularity among local governments, businesses, and schools. Unlike conventional lecture-style training, these immersive experiences allow participants to simulate real disaster scenarios, fostering a more engaging and participatory learning environment.

Since AR Disaster Prevention first incorporated AR technology into disaster training in 2016, the organization has supported over 2,000 training sessions across all 47 prefectures in Japan. However, disaster preparedness professionals often face challenges such as the perception of “doing it because they have to” and inquiries about fostering genuine engagement and awareness among participants.

Many of these professionals are not disaster response specialists but are tasked with training preparations and event management alongside their primary duties, which can lead to difficulties in maximizing the potential of evolving technologies during events. Therefore, understanding how to effectively implement and incorporate technology into disaster preparedness training becomes critically important.

Transforming Experiences through Technology and Analog Methods

The latest technology captivates participants with its inherent intrigue. Capturing their attention is a significant step in making disaster education accessible. However, if the experience does not lead to further learning, it might end up being just an entertaining activity.

As participants engage in virtual disaster simulations, their emotions may be profoundly affected, making it essential to carefully consider what messages and thoughts they should take away at that moment. The overall value derived from the experience is heavily influenced by the planned approaches, venue arrangements, the dialogue that takes place that day, and the schedule—essentially the “analog power” that creates an environment conducive for focused experiences. Different operational strategies can significantly impact participants' reactions and memory retention.

During the seminar, attendees will delve into various case studies that illustrate the characteristics of environments where technology is utilized effectively versus those where it falters. The discussion will include actionable strategies for creating disaster events that do not evoke a feeling of obligation, ensuring participants leave with valuable knowledge and skills.

The background of this discourse will be influenced by the observations made by Akihiro Itamiya, CEO of AR Disaster Prevention, who has worked in the field of disaster training for over a decade. More on this can be found in articles published via PR TIMES STORY.

Recommended for:

• - Individuals seeking to design disaster training that encourages behavioral change among participants.
• - Those who wish to learn best practices for planning and executing disaster events using modern technologies.
• - Individuals interested in increasing attendance at disaster training sessions.

Seminar Details:

• - Date: October 6, 2026 (Tuesday) 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• - Networking Time: 3:00 PM (optional, approximately 20 minutes)
• - Format: Online Seminar (Zoom)
• - Target Audience: Disaster management professionals in local governments, businesses, educational institutions, and media.
• - Capacity: 40 participants (real-time)
• - Archive: Available (viewing deadline: end of October)
• - Registration: Please register by September 17 at 12 PM. Pre-registration is required for archive viewing as well.

Seminar Agenda (Tentative):

• - The reasons behind quality differences in experiential training despite adopting new technologies.
• - Insights into case studies that showcase environments where technology excels versus where it falls short.
• - Techniques for organizing disaster events that avoid the “forced participation” feeling.

Featured Speakers:

Risu Ando

• - Visiting researcher at the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience.
• - Outdoor disaster guide and personality of FM Nishitokyo’s disaster program.
• - Ph.D. candidate in disaster recovery policy at Hyogo Prefectural University.
• - Advocate for integrating disaster preparedness into daily life since 2003, presenting innovative ideas such as utilizing diaper bags as emergency kits.

Akihiro Itamiya

• - Executive Director of AR Disaster Prevention and certified disaster prevention specialist.
• - Born in 1978 in Koshigaya City, Tokyo, with a history of involvement in disaster relief efforts from a young age.
• - Founded AR Disaster Prevention in 2020 to promote simulated disaster experiences through AR/VR technologies.

About AR Disaster Prevention

Founded with the vision to save lives through virtual tools, AR Disaster Prevention focuses on bringing disaster preparedness to reality and everyday life. The organization enhances public awareness through disaster education and prevention events using augmented reality technology. AR Disaster Prevention has been pivotal in changing Japan’s disaster awareness culture through over 2,000 implementation cases across the country.

• - Website: AR Disaster Prevention