#Japan #AI Technology #Tokyo #Local Government #Infrastructure AX

The Local Government Infrastructure AX Summit 2026

Scheduled for February 18, 2026, the Local Government Infrastructure AX Summit is set to take place at Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB), specifically on the first floor at SQUARE-1. Organized by the Local Government Infrastructure AX Summit 2026 Executive Committee and managed by Tenchijin Corp, a certified space venture by JAXA, this summit aims to transform years of experience and intuition from veteran professionals into sustainable management through innovative AI applications.

The summit will provide three distinguished keynote speeches and thematic sessions focused on addressing the growing challenges of infrastructure management amidst Japan's declining population, aging assets, and a staggering digital deficit. Participants will explore how local governments can shift from being mere managers of resources to proactive producers, integrating data-driven tools to ensure sustainability.

Attendees include local government officials, representatives from various sectors such as construction, IT, and research institutions, and startup companies, contributing to a rich dialogue aimed at delivering actionable insights for immediate implementation.

Overview of the Summit

The urgency of infrastructure management is palpable. Japan faces numerous challenges including infrastructure aging, decreasing populations, and a digital deficit exceeding 7 trillion yen. In response, the government has identified disaster prevention and resilient national infrastructure as key areas alongside AI and semiconductor innovations. This strategic focus aims to provide guidance through a paradigm shift that combines experience with data-driven insights.

Traditionally seen as a cost center, infrastructure can instead be viewed as an asset when managed collectively rather than in isolation. This shift in perspective is crucial as local governments transition from mere managers to producers, rethinking their role within their communities. The summit highlights how evidence-based policy-making (EBPM) can translate veteran intuitions into actionable strategies supported by data.

As the landscape evolves, municipalities are beginning to embrace change quietly. With fewer personnel, these agencies are grappling with how to pass on the technological baton, integrating AI into water management to inherit the wisdom of seasoned professionals. Various municipalities have initiated shifts from broad management strategies toward more focused approaches, capitalizing on travel data and sensors. Technologies like drones and AI are not only improving routine operations but are also becoming vital tools during emergencies, blurring the lines between maintenance and disaster preparedness.

The summit will weave together national strategies with local implementations, showcasing innovative practices that convert crises into opportunities.

Keynote Speaker Highlights

Keynote Session 1: Restructuring Society Amidst Population Decline

• - Presenters: Ryuutarou Okada (Japan Deep Learning Association), Kohei Yoshida (Cabinet Office)

This session will focus on Japan's digital struggles and outline strategies for a counteroffensive on the global stage.

Keynote Session 2: Envisioning the Future of Infrastructure

• - Presenters: Masanori Kobayashi (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism), Minoru Ota (Mayor, Toyota City), Hiroaki Kusachi (Mayor, Iwata City)

The discussion will revolve around transitioning from managing costs to generating value in infrastructure using public-private partnerships and digital transformation.

Special Lecture: Exploring EBPM for Infrastructure Management

• - Presenter: Kiyoshi Kaido (Osaka University)

This talk will illuminate the integration of seasoned expertise with data, showcasing the potential for refined decision-making.

Session Descriptions

The summit includes several sessions focused on practical implementations:

Session 1: Preserving Water Infrastructure Through AI

Explore innovative methods to retain knowledge beyond the retirement of seasoned staff, focusing on AI-driven data integration in water management.

Session 2: Transforming Roads from Cost to Value

Discover how AI and mobility data can optimize maintenance and urban activities to create a sustainable framework.

Session 3: Defining Maintenance and Cooperation

Discuss the importance of defining maintenance practices that benefit both everyday operations and emergency situations through robust technology use.

As we confront increasing infrastructure demands, gathering insights and solutions from a diverse range of experts at the summit will be vital. The event serves as a platform for collaboration between governmental bodies, local authorities, and solution providers to solidify pathways for sustainable infrastructure management amidst evolving digital landscapes.

Join us in this pioneering convergence toward shaping the future of local government infrastructure! Check the official summit website for further updates and registration details.