While Japan's population declines and ages, various social issues are becoming more serious, including intensifying natural disasters and the spread of COVID-19. Under the Vision for a Digital Garden City Nation, the government of Japan aims to realize a "fulfilling life" (Well-Being) by solving social issues and enhancing regional charm through the use of digital technology, while utilizing each region's uniqueness. In this context, smart city initiatives aimed at improving the Well-Being are finally entering the implementation stage across the country.

The Smart City Institute Japan (SCI-Japan) was established in October 2019 as a private sector-led not-for-profit organization as a knowledge and public-private-academic partnership platform to promote the expansion and advancement of smart cities in Japan.

We aim to expand and advance Japan's smart cities through the following and other efforts:

1. Collecting, analyzing, and sharing the latest information on the world's leading smart cities and know-how for promotion;
2. Discussing, proposing, and advising for promoting smart cities in Japan; and
3. Promoting exchanges and networking between various entities related to smart cities.

• Information sharing and awareness activities related to smart cities (large-scale forums, webinars, reports, columns, newsletters, etc.)
• Activities in collaborative areas essential for promoting smart cities (policy recommendations)
  1. Development and promotion of the Liveable Well-Being City Index
  2. Development and provision of the City-Region MAP Program, a training programs for smart city promotion professionals
• Support for networking among members (supporting individual matching, organizing social gatherings at events, hosting web salons, etc.)
• Planning of overseas study tours and events
• Educational activities for students (organizing events in collaboration with universities, etc.)