Unique Local Manhole Exhibition Set for 2025
The “Local Manhole Exhibition” is scheduled to take place from April 23 (Wednesday) to June 24 (Tuesday), 2025, at the “47 Prefectures Local Hall” located within the Soronoue Shopping Mall, a digital commercial hub managed by Beneric Digital Entertainment, Inc. This event promises to showcase captivating photographs of manholes from across Japan within a metaverse setting, allowing attendees to explore these images through their avatars for an immersive experience.
Colorful Local Manholes as Tourist Attractions
Well-crafted manholes across Japan are increasingly recognized as tourist attractions that highlight regional charm. These manholes, featuring designs that represent notable landmarks, local delicacies, and cultural icons, have garnered popularity as collectible items. The rise of “manhole cards” has further fueled interest in these artistic installations.
Growing Global Interest in Manhole Culture
In recent years, there has been a notable uptick in both domestic and international tourists visiting these manholes, leading to their recognition as a distinct aspect of Japanese culture. The trend promotes exploration and appreciation of these unique features in various locales.
Virtual Exhibition Experience in the Metaverse
During the “Local Manhole Exhibition,” photographs submitted by participants will be displayed in a specially designed area of the Metaverse. The exhibition space mimics an asphalt road or a brick wall, giving visitors a sense of stepping into a real-world manhole. Attendees can navigate through the exhibition using their avatars and can zoom in on images for detailed viewing.
Engaging Local VTubers and Public Participation
Additionally, local VTubers representing each of the 47 prefectures will highlight the features of each showcased manhole, allowing visitors to interact by liking their favorite photographs. The exhibition is also inviting photo submissions from the public. For guidelines and entry details, interested parties can check the official website of the Soronoue Shopping Mall.
Application Details and Submission Guidelines
The deadline for photo submissions is set for April 7, 2025, at 23:59. Participants can apply through a dedicated form available on the Soronoue Shopping Mall’s official website. The submission requirements include uploading JPEG format photos along with necessary details such as the title, location, date of capture, display name, and a brief comment of up to 20 characters.
A Digital Shopping Experience in the Metaverse
The Soronoue Shopping Mall serves as a metaverse commercial facility accessible via smartphones, PCs, and tablets without requiring any app installation. Visitors can engage in online shopping and participate in events through their avatars. The mall consists of several themed buildings featuring a variety of stores, including character shops, maid cafes, antique bookstores, award-winning restaurants, and more.
Discover Unique Manholes in a Virtual Space
The “Local Manhole Exhibition” offers a distinctive opportunity for visitors to appreciate the creativity of manholes from various regions in Japan within a digital environment. Attendees may discover new favorites or find inspiration to visit these locations in real life. We encourage everyone to embody their avatars and explore this virtual showcase!
