Click here to teleport to an impressively lush and detailed new Second Life sim based on Tsurugajo Castle in Japan, often called "Samurai City." While there are many similar locations in SL (there's even an entire samurai-themed RPG!), this one has a special hook -- it's funded by the Japanese government, via its tourist agency:
This is the first time that a Metaverse project is being carried out in a specific location under the direct control of the Japan Tourism Agency. The idea is to spread it across the country as an advanced tourism model that utilizes digital technology.
The project is also launching a Tsurugajo Castle in Fortnite. I'm curious how the project will drive real world tourism to Japan -- and if the agency wants to fly me there to investigate, I'm totally down! -- but I appreciate the forward-thinking here. Not sure if it's intentional, but this is launching right when a new Shogun mini-series is premiering in the US.
Tsurugajo Castle, towering in Aizu, known as "Samurai City," is a historic castle located in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. It was built in the early Edo period and served as a vital stronghold in the Aizu region from the Sengoku period to the end of the Edo period. It built fierce battles, particularly during the Boshin War. Today, its grandeur has been reconstructed, becoming a popular tourist destination visited by tourists and history enthusiasts.
Much thanks to Sanny, my awesome Japanese translator and investigator!
It is a lovely place - a bit 'old school' for the new kids but hey.
Nice reminder of the time I was honoured to work in Japan. Now that was fun:)
Posted by: sirhc desantis | Saturday, March 09, 2024 at 06:11 AM