Introduction
When you hear the phrase "city of the future," don't you imagine a science fiction world where flying cars soar through the air? However, the project that started in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is much more down-to-earth, yet exciting. 。
For readers who have questions like, "What exactly is going on inside?" and "How will our lives change?", this time we'll address them.Woven CityThis article delves into the heart of the matter. By reading this article, you will understand the true aim behind Toyota's massive investment in creating a "city."
The concept is "a city where you can fail as quickly as possible."
Many people think of Woven City as an extremely efficient "smart city." However, the true significance, according to Toyota engineers, is that it is **a city where failure is possible at the fastest pace**. 。
In the world of science, failure is the shortest route to success. Typically, testing new technology on public roads can take several years due to legal regulations and coordination with the police. However, within Woven City, which is private property, that process can be significantly shortened. 。
Toyota views this not merely as a residential area, but as a **"test course"** for refining its technology. In other words, they immediately try out new ideas, and if they don't work, they improve them right away. This overwhelming sense of speed is the main theme of this city. 。
The entire city is a "giant laboratory"! Three points of interest
In this town, which opened in September 2025, various pilot projects are already underway. We have summarized three points that are particularly noteworthy.
1. Evolved "Mobility (Vehicles)"
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Autonomous buses and three-wheeled electric vehiclesSelf-driving buses and single-seater electric vehicles are cruising around the city. 。
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Guide MobiThis is a "leading robot" for enabling autonomous driving in regular cars. The robot, driving ahead, checks for safety and gives instructions to the following vehicle, making autonomous driving possible even in existing cars. 。
2. Next-generation logistics operating in "invisible places"
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Underground logistics tunnelA dedicated logistics route runs beneath the apartment building. 。
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Smart PostA robot automatically delivers packages to a dedicated mailbox installed in each apartment. A world free from the stress of redelivery is just around the corner.
3. "Life Tech": The science behind everyday life
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AI Coffee AnalysisUCC Japan's cafes are using in-store cameras and AI to analyze "the impact coffee has on people." 。
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Verification of the optimal spaceDaikin Industries is conducting experiments to create personalized spaces by controlling the air, scent, and visuals in a room. 。
The key to success is "co-creation with residents" and "moving away from self-reliance."
Another feature of Woven City is,The residents were very cooperative with the experiment.That is 。
Direct feedback from residents is a treasure trove for researchers. Furthermore, it's worth noting that not only the Toyota Group, but also a diverse range of companies such as Nissin Foods, Dydo, and Kyoritsu Pharmaceutical are participating. 。
Issues to be resolved
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Speed of social implementationHow quickly can we apply the insights gained in the city to actual business and society? 。
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Ecosystem expansionCan we involve more companies outside the Toyota Group and create diverse collaborations? 。
With the US and China leading the way in AI and autonomous driving, whether Woven City functions as a "Japanese-style innovation hub" will determine Japan's competitiveness. 。
Summary
The essence of Woven City is not to show a "perfected future","The process of continuing to challenge oneself without fear of failure"It is there.
This applies to work as well. Rather than getting bogged down in striving for perfection, it's better to repeatedly conduct small experiments and learn from failures as quickly as possible. This "Woven-style" way of thinking may offer a clue to surviving in uncertain times.
