#Japan #Tokyo #San-X #Sumikko Gurashi #Odakyu Agency

Sumikko Gurashi's XR Introduction at Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision

On June 2, 2025, a fascinating new experience for fans of the beloved Sumikko Gurashi characters will be unveiled at the Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision. In collaboration between Odakyu Agency and San-X, this original content, titled "Funwari Time," will incorporate cutting-edge Extended Reality (XR) technology to provide both local visitors and remote users with an engaging and interactive adventure in the world of Sumikko Gurashi.

The Meaning Behind Sumikko Gurashi

Sumikko Gurashi, which translates to "living in the corners," was introduced in 2012. These characters resonate with a wide audience due to their quirky yet relatable personalities. Many people find solace in the corners of a café or train, and these endearing characters embody the comfort and familiarity associated with such places. Sumikko Gurashi's charm lies not only in their cuteness but also in their subtle and sometimes humorous portrayal of Japanese culture.

Innovative XR Technologies on Display

The initiative marks a pivotal moment in Out-Of-Home (OOH) advertising, pushing its boundaries by merging traditional media with the latest in digital innovation. Odakyu Agency has been at the forefront of exploring how to use XR technology within OOH advertisements, aiming to shift the typical one-way communication style of traditional advertising to a more engaging, two-way interaction. Visitors will be encouraged to actively participate in the experience, creating an immersive environment that draws them closer to the characters.

Multiple Ways to Enjoy the Content

1. AR Camera at Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision:
When visitors point their smartphones at the Shinjuku Southern Terrace Vision screen, they will encounter a special augmented reality (AR) experience featuring Sumikko Gurashi characters. This interactive content synchronizes with the visuals displayed on the large LED monitor, enabling a seamless blend between the real world and the digital scenery. Apple users will be able to try this feature starting June 2, with Android support expected later in the summer.

2. Anywhere AR Camera:
Users can bring Sumikko Gurashi characters into their daily lives, whether at home or on the go. This feature allows for movement and resizing of characters and even includes special interactions upon tapping, adding an element of fun and discovery.

Both experiences utilize the palanAR platform, showcasing the versatile capabilities of AR technology while promoting user creativity.

A Focus on Comfort and Relaxation

"Funwari Time" aims to deliver moments of peace and comfort to the bustling city life of Shinjuku. With its concentrated foot traffic, the city's OOH media serves as an ideal location to capture the attention of passersby, inviting them to pause and engage with delightful content. This innovative approach seeks to build a bridge between longstanding Sumikko Gurashi fans and those newly introduced to the characters, enhancing the emotional connection with this unique brand.

Wrapping Up

The integration of Sumikko Gurashi with advanced XR technologies showcases a significant leap toward the future of advertising, emphasizing interaction and user participation. As the display goes live on June 2, 2025, locals and tourists alike can come together to enjoy a charming experience that emphasizes comfort and creativity, highlighting the best of what Sumikko Gurashi represents. For further details and updates, fans can follow Sumikko Gurashi on their official site and social media.