#Japan #Tokyo #Marui Group #Life is Tech #Tech Koshien

Tech Koshien: A New Challenge for Young Innovators

In a groundbreaking collaboration between Marui Group and Life Is Tech, the Tech Koshien competition is set to launch, inviting middle and high school students from across Japan to showcase their innovation skills. Scheduled for December 6, 2026, the event encourages participants to blend idea generation with practical implementation. Registration opens on June 16, 2026.

What is Tech Koshien?

Originally known as the App High School Championship since its inception in 2011, this year's competition has been rebranded to reflect an expanded focus on various technology forms beyond app development. With the rapidly changing landscape of technology, including advancements in generative AI, it is now more crucial than ever to question not just what we create, but purposefully explore the reasons and methods behind those creations. Tech Koshien presents a platform for students to explore and communicate their ideas, aiming to help them transform their thoughts into tangible contributions to society.

Key Changes in the Competition Structure

This year, Tech Koshien features a refined structure that separates the competition into two main categories: the Product Division and the Idea Division. Here are the significant updates:

1. Consolidation of Development Departments: The previous Development Division, which included General Development and AI Development categories, has been integrated into a single Product Division covering apps, web services, and games. This change reflects the diverse ways technology is being developed and used in today’s world.

2. Revised Evaluation Criteria for the Product Division: The judging criteria have been streamlined from five to three key criteria, focusing heavily on social implementation. Only publicly deployed projects will be evaluated, emphasizing Vision, User Experience, and Delivery (for finalists only).

3. Public Presentations in the Idea Division: In a shift from previous years, finalists in the Idea Division will now present their ideas at the final event, providing a platform to directly communicate their visions. Schools can also submit applications, alongside individuals and groups, allowing for a wider range of participation from young innovators.

Application Details

• - Submission Deadlines:

- Product Division: August 30, 2026, by 17:00
- Idea Division: September 28, 2026, by 17:00

• - Final Event:

- Date: December 6, 2026
- Location: Marui Group Headquarters, 3rd Floor Co-creation Hall

For further details, please visit the official competition website at Tech Koshien.

Marui Group's Vision

At Marui Group, we are committed to creating an inclusive society where everyone can experience happiness. Our mission emphasizes collaborative management, working with a diverse range of stakeholders, including future generations, to create impactful value. One of our core goals is to shape the future in partnership with younger generations. The Tech Koshien exemplifies our belief that the ideas and perspectives of future generations are vital for societal advancement. Through this competition, we are dedicated to supporting young challengers and their innovative spirits.

About Life Is Tech

• - Company Name: Life Is Tech, Inc.
• - Location: 2-12-3 Minamiazabu, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0047, Japan
• - Representative: Yusuke Mizuno
• - Contact: 03-5877-4879
• - Website: lifeistech.co.jp

About Marui Group

• - Company Name: Marui Group, Inc.
• - Location: 4-3-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo, 164-8701, Japan
• - Representative: Hiroshi Aoi
• - Contact: 03-3384-0101 (Fax: 03-5343-6615)
• - Website: 0101maruigroup.co.jp

With its innovative approach and commitment to fostering young talent, Tech Koshien is set to become a landmark event for aspiring tech innovators in Japan.