#Japan #immersive lab #Kato City #Cursed Auction #NAGAKUTSU

Discover the 'Cursed Auction' Murder Mystery Experience

A new wave of entertainment is about to sweep through the Kansai region with the launch of the immersive murder mystery event, Cursed Auction, developed by the innovative company Immersive Lab. Starting from February 2026, this two-day adventure invites participants to explore the historical and cultural richness of Kato City, Hyogo Prefecture, while engaging in a thrilling auction of antique items that holds their fate within.

The Concept of 'Cursed Auction'

Designed to blend real-world exploration with a captivating narrative, Cursed Auction builds on the success of the previous event, Murder in a Dream, which garnered positive acclaim during its debut in February 2025. This time, the focus is on offering a deeper experience of cultural heritage through immersive storytelling.

Kato City, located nearly at the center of Hyogo, is adorned with historical temples, important cultural heritage sites, and rich natural landscapes, making it a locale steeped in stories from legendary battles and traditional industries. Despite these treasures, the city faces challenges such as limited tourist stays and their economic impact. Cursed Auction aims to tackle these issues head-on by providing a unique accommodation-based entertainment model that encourages longer visits and immersive experiences.

An Immersive Experience

Immersive entertainment is all the rage worldwide, with the murder mystery genre reaching a market size of over 400 billion yen in China, and immersive theater gaining popularity globally. In this event, participants will step into the shoes of various characters, directly engaging with the story by solving mysteries and completing missions that reveal the plot as they delve into the flavorful backdrop of Kato City. This interactive format allows them to create memorable experiences that go beyond typical tourism.

How the Event Works

As participants arrive in Kato City, they will join a bus tour, stopping at significant cultural landmarks such as Banshu Shimizu Temple. Here, they will explore local legends intertwined with the auction they are set to partake in that night. While they engage with the city's history during the day, the evening will shift to a suspenseful auction held in a hotel, where competitive spirits will rise as they vie for various items, including the legendary artifact known as the 'Juten' (呪典). The stakes will be high, with elements of greed, desire, and mysteries entwined among the bids.

Summary of Event Logistics

Guests can expect to experience a meticulously designed schedule: the bus tour will kick off at 1:00 PM on the first day from Shin-Sanda Station, followed by the auction event starting at 4:00 PM, and wrapping up around 11:00 PM. The following day revolves around game completion by 11:00 AM, allowing clues and narratives to lead the participants through a well-crafted story. In total, groups of 16 to 26 players will collaborate in pairs, each with their individual goals interspersed with teamwork.

The stay includes accommodations at the Green Plaza Tojo Lake Hotel, providing dinner, breakfast, and all essential amenities necessary for a comfortable night. With a participation fee of 28,000 yen that encompasses all aspects of the event, participants are encouraged to reserve their spots as soon as possible.

Enriching Local Connections

Immersive Lab collaborates with local business NAGAKUTSU, a mystery-focused retailer, and the Kato City Tourism Association to deliver this comprehensive entertaining experience. Participants not only dive into a narrative but also explore the traditions behind Kato’s tales, including its historical anecdotes from the Genpei War and revered local delicacies. The finale of the game will see winners awarded commemorative coins, celebrating their investigative success.

As the curtains rise on Cursed Auction, attendees will not just watch but will become a part of a vibrant story that weaves together the beauty of Kato's landscape with its historical fibers. Ensure to stay tuned for updates on bookings and details on this one-of-a-kind event!

Event Details

Official Website: Immersive Lab
Social Media: Follow updates with #CursedAuction and @ImmersiveLabinc
Participants should be prepared for a memorable escapade that transcends ordinary experiences into the realm of interactive storytelling.