#Japan #Tokyo #TOKYO NODE #Niantic Spatial #XR HACKATHON

TOKYO NODE “XR HACKATHON” Supported by Niantic Spatial

The upcoming TOKYO NODE “XR HACKATHON” is set to redefine urban environments through cutting-edge technology. Hosted by Mori Building Co., Ltd. at the TOKYO NODE in Toranomon Hills, this exciting event will run from July 11 to October 23, 2025. The hackathon will utilize Toranomon's digital twin data to inspire innovative XR applications and urban experiences.

Background of the Event

Since its establishment in 2023, the TOKYO NODE LAB has actively collaborated with various creators and companies to explore new urban experiences that transcend traditional boundaries in technology, art, and entertainment. The first iteration of the hackathon, held in tandem with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in 2023, drew around 100 creatives who proposed exciting prototypes using XR technologies, further positioning Toranomon as a hub for XR innovation.

What’s New This Year?

For the second edition, the event will partner with Niantic Spatial, a leader in Geospatial Computing. Participants, including artists and creators, will spend months developing their XR applications, with a focus on various fields such as art, gaming, storytelling, performance, and service experiences.

Various events will be held throughout the hackathon, including Acceleration Events for learning and networking and an XR PARADE that will display selected creators' works throughout Toranomon Hills. The Award Ceremony will conclude the event, awarding prizes including cash rewards and opportunities for featured articles to the most innovative projects.

Important Dates

• - Application Period: June 19–July 4, 2025 (Noon)
• - Kick-Off Party: July 11, 2025
• - Development Phase: July 11–September 12, 2025
• - Final Pitch: September 12, 2025
• - XR PARADE: October 17–23, 2025
• - Award Ceremony: October 23, 2025

Event Details

• - Location: TOKYO NODE LAB (Toranomon Hills Station Tower) and nearby areas.
• - Entry Fee: Free
• - Eligibility: Open to all individuals or teams, with no restrictions on age, nationality, or affiliation (no corporate teams).
• - Application Method: Interested participants can register through the application form.

Judging Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:
1. Novelty and Innovation
2. Technical Quality and Design
3. Potential and Developability

The first round of judging will be by the organizing committee through presentations, while the final round will involve both judges and the public during the XR PARADE.

Prizes

• - Gold Prize: ¥500,000 + Featured Article
• - Silver Prize: ¥200,000
• - Bronze Prize: ¥100,000
• - Audience Prize: One award
• - Special awards may also be distributed based on judges’ discretion.

Sponsor Information

Niantic Spatial is proudly featured as the platinum sponsor, supported by several technical partners, media partners, and community organizations that share its commitment to innovation in XR tech.

Conclusion

Mori Building Co., Ltd. emphasizes that XR/AI is not merely a collection of technologies but a vision that lights a new cultural flame in urban landscapes. They hope this event will bring together talents from around the globe, fostering experiences that have yet to be imagined.

For more information on TOKYO NODE and the initiatives of the TOKYO NODE LAB, please visit their official website.