Shunsuke Aoki

Robot Creator | CEO, Yukai Engineering Inc.

• UNIT 06 : Home appliances

While studying at the University of Tokyo, he established teamLab and became its CTO. Then, after serving as CTO of pixiv, he established a robotics venture business, "Yukai Engineering Inc." With the vision "robotics for fun living," he produces many household robot products. In 2014, he released "BOCCO," a communication robot that keeps families connected. In 2017, he released "Qoobo," a cushion-type therapy robot complete with tail.

Yoshihide Asako

Architect / Designer | President, takaban studio

• UNIT 14 : Construction for industry, commercial and public facility

Born in 1972 in Kobe City. After working at an architectural and interior design office, he coestablished contectures, LLC. (currently Genron Co., Ltd.) with Hiroki Azuma in 2010 and left after publishing Shisouchizu Beta vol. 1 and vol. 2. Conducts research on cities through commercial spaces, gives critiques on cities, and designs cities. Wrote "Tokyo Interior Tour" (coauthored with Ryoko Ando). His main study is the "Interior Design of COMME des GARCONS" (published in "Shisouchizu Beta" Vol. 1). His main piece of work is "gray". He won the highest award for the construction designer selection proposal of Hachinohe City's new Art Museum.

Keiji Ashizawa

Architect, Designer | CEO, Keiji Ashizawa Design, Ishinomaki Laboratory

• UNIT 08 : Housing fixtures

Graduated in Yokohama National University (1996), followed by professional pursuit in design office, architecture WORKSHOP as well as in a furniture production workshop, super robot. In 2005, he established Keiji Ashizawa Design, an architectural and product design studio. With "honest design" as his motto, Ashizawa collaborated with international brand furniture makers such as IKEA and domestic consumer electronics manufacturers, and participated in architectural projects and workshops in Japan and abroad. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, Ashizawa established Ishinomaki Laboratory as a public workshop in Ishinomaki, proposing reconstruction and town planning through furniture manufacturing and DIY (do-it-yourself) projects. In 2016, he also established DESIGN Koishikawa, a gallery space where his office is located.

Takashi Ashitomi

Product Designer | President, SAAT DESIGN Inc.

• UNIT 10 : Equipment and facilities for manufacturing and medical care / Uniit Leader

After working at Sony Design Center, Takashi Ashitomi established SAAT DESIGN INC. in 1991. He has been a Professor of Product Design at Tama Art University in the Department of Product and Textile Design since 2008. He is involved in comprehensive design approaches including design development of electronic products such as information technology devices and home electronic appliances, local industry development, and design education.

Shin Azumi

Product Designer | Professor, Faculty of Engineering and Design, Department of Engineering and Design, Hosei University / CEO, A Studio Design Limited

• UNIT 11 : Equipment and facilities for shop, office and public space

After graduating Kyoto City University of Arts and working at NEC Corporation's Design Center, he completed a master's degree at the Royal College of Art (UK). Then, after basing himself in London as AZUMI, he established A Studio Design Ltd. He carries out activities internationally over a wide area, centered on product design. He has won domestic and international awards and served as a judge, and many of his collections have been displayed in art museums. In 2016, he moved his base to Japan and became a professor in the Department of Engineering and Design, Faculty of Engineering and Design, Hosei University.

Hisae Igarashi

Interior Designer | President, Igarashi Design Studio

• UNIT 11 : Equipment and facilities for shop, office and public space / Uniit Leader

Born in Tokyo. After working at Kuramata Design Office, she established the Igarashi Design Studio in 1993. Focused on commerce to spatial design, installations, and furniture design, she is heavily involved in the development of products and playing equipment for children's facilities. She develops evolutionary designs that seek potential in spatial designs through the fields of "clothing, food, housing, and education". Awards she has received include the JCD Design Award Silver Award, the Good Design Award, the Kids Design Award, the CS Design Award Gold Award, and others. She is currently a Professor of Scenography, Display and Fashion Design, at Musashino Art University.

Shunsuke Ishikawa

Design Director | Founding Partner, kesiki inc

• UNIT 17 : Business model and method / Uniit Leader

Graduated from Central St. Martins, University of the Arts London. After working at the Panasonic Design Company and as the Creative lead at PDD Innovations UK, he was engaged in the launch of IDEO Tokyo as Design Director. Then, after working as Head of Design at BCG Digital Ventures, he assumed his present post. He has been involved in numerous innovation projects. He successively served as judge of D&AD, the Good Design Award, and design selections all over the country. He recently authored "HELLO, DESIGN Nihonjin and design" (Gentosha), among others.

Tsutsumu Ishikawa

IT Journalist | Freelance

• UNIT 07 : ICT equipment

After joining Nikkei Home Publishing (current Nikkei BP) in 1999, as editor/writer in the editing department of the Nikkei Trendy, he interviewed various people and wrote about hit products, hotels, mobile phones, cars, and others. He became an independent journalist in 2003 and wrote for newspapers, magazines, and online media, also appearing on both TV and radio. He has a serial column called "Master of mobile" in the Nikkei Online Edition, works as a radio personality for Radio Nikkei's "Smartphone No. 1 Media", and issues the email newsletter "Smartphone industry news". He recently authored "Shigoto no noritsu wo ageru saikyo saisoku no sumaho & pasokon katsuyojutsu" (Asahi Shimbun Publications).

Yoshiki Ishikawa

Public Health Researcher | Co-Founder, Campus for H

• UNIT 10 : Equipment and facilities for manufacturing and medical care

Yoshiki earned a bachelor’s degree in Health Science from the University of Tokyo, a Master of Science in Health Policy and Management from Harvard School of Public Health, and a PhD in Medicine from Jichi Medical School. As a public health researcher, entrepreneur, and science journalist, Yoshiki is working at the intersection of science, business, and government as a catalyst with the aim of advancing the well-being of society.

Nanako Ishido

Digital Ehon Artist | President, CANVAS, Professor, Keio University

• UNIT 02 : Life products (Kids and stationery)

After graduating the School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo and conducting research as a visiting scholar at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Media Lab, she established NPO CANVAS in 2002, which promotes creative and expressive activities for children. CANVAS has delivered 3000 workshops to approximately 500,000 children. Founded Digital ehon in 2011 and Learning of Tomorrow in 2018. Member of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ Information and Communications Council, NHK central deliberative body, and others. Her publications include "What is programming education? 45 questions parent wants to know" and "Switch of Children's Creativety".

Yuta Inoue

Project Manager | CEO, QUANTUM\GLOBAL Inc.

• UNIT 16 : System and Service / Focused Issues Directors

After performing management consulting in Japan, the US, and Europe at McKinsey, he established an incorporated foundation to develop leadership in young victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake. He has held the positions of WIRED North America special correspondent and proposer/project officer of MEXT's first government and private collaboration project "Tobitate Study Abroad Japan representative program". In 2014, he participated in establishing QUANTUM, and led joint business developments with large corporations and startups. He also operates a Bali lifestyle brand, KRAS, with his wife. Former visiting associate professor at Kyushu University.

Jun Inokuma

Architect | Assistant professor, Division of Architecture & Urban Studies,Faculty of Urban Enviromental Sciences, TOKYO METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY / President, NARUSE+INOKUMA ARCHITECTS

• UNIT 13 : Housing (medium to large sized housing complex) / Uniit Leader

2004 Completed the Master Course, the University of Tokyo
2004-2006 CHIBA MANABU ARCHITECTS
2007- Co-established NARUSE INOKUMA ARCHITECTS
2008- Assistant Professor at Tokyo Metropolitan University

Hisato Ogata

Design Engineer | Director, Takram

• UNIT 07 : ICT equipment

With takram since 2012, Hisato is an award-winning design engineer whose multidisciplinary abilities span from hardware to software and from art to science. A recipient of the Good Design Award in 2004 and the iF Product Design Award in 2005, his work has most recently received acclaim at the Media Arts Festival held by the Japanese National Agency of Cultural Affairs in 2012.

Ken Okamoto

Graphic Designer | Representative, Ken Okamoto Design Office Inc.

• UNIT 02 : Life products (Kids and stationery)

Born in 1983 in Ota City, Gunma. Majoring in psychology in the Department of Behavioral Science, Faculty of Letters, Chiba University, he became interested in graphic design while studying it as part of his research, and changed direction. After graduating, he gained experience at several design studios, worked at VOL and Taku Sato Design Office, and became independent in 2013. He established the Ken Okamoto Design Office Inc. in 2015. From 2016 to 2019, he also worked as part-time lecturer for the Course of Integrated Design, Tama Art University.

Yasuo Omi

Building System Design and Engineering Researcher | Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo City University

• UNIT 12 : Housing (personal residence, small sized apartment)

Graduated and Got a phD in Engineering from the Department of Architecture, Graduate School of Engineering, the University of Tokyo in 1995. Established OMI Architectural Planning Office in 1999 and A/E WORKS (Jointly) in 2002. Currently Professor at Tokyo City University and Chairperson of ISO/TC162. Primary Research is a Variety of Methods of Building Renovation from the Viewpoint of Building System Design and Engineering.

Carl Liu

Design Director | Design VP, Niu Technologies Inc.

• UNIT 02 : Life products (Kids and stationery) | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

He is the founder of brand CARLLIU which is dedicated on creating quality sustainable lifestyle objects for everyday usage. He is currently working as the Design VP of Niu Technologies in Shanghai China. His signature designs included Compaq iPaq PDA, Nike running watch Triax 300 and Triax 50. These products had won international awards like G-Mark, IDSA and I.D Magazine. He has published two design books Carl Liu Design Book and Innovative Product Design Practice since 2005. Prior to that, he worked at BMW Designworks, Ideadao Design, Walt Disney, Intel, Motorola and Astro Studios.

Tetsu Kataoka

Product Designer | President, KATAOKA DESIGN STUDIO

• UNIT 07 : ICT equipment / Uniit Leader | UNIT 19 : (Korea)

After working as Chief Art Director at Sony Corporation's Creative Center, he started his own business in 2004. He established the Kataoka Design Studio, and is currently widely involved domestically and overseas in products such as electronics products, furniture, general merchandise, medical equipment, robotics, AI, etc. Received many awards including the Good Design Award, iF Product Design Gold Award, Best of the Best for the Red Dot Design Award, etc. Part-time Lecturer for the Department of Design, Nihon University College of Art. Full member of the Japan Industrial Designers' Association.

Noriko Kawakami

Journalist | Associate Director, 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT

• UNIT 04 : Life products (Kitchen tools and daily necessities) / Uniit Leader

She joined Axis in 1986, after "AXIS" editing office, she became independent in 1994. Besides writing, she will give lectures at domestic and abroad. 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT Associate Director since 2007. In connection with other design exhibitions, "Contemporary Japanese Design 100 Selection" (sponsored by the Japan Foundation), Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, France "Japon-Japonismes, objets inspirés,1867-2018" (2018) co-curator, "London Design Biennale 2016" Japan official exhibition curatorial adviser etc. Part-time lecturer at Serizawa Design Institute and Nagaoka Institute of Design.

Daisaku Kawase

TV Producer | Executive Producer, Production Headquarters, NHK ENTREPRISES, INC.

• UNIT 15 : Media, Contents and Packaging

A producer with 25 years of experience in television production at NHK. Daisaku Kawase has a wide range of portfolio, including "The Professional", "ASAICHI" , "ODOMO TV" and"GO!Kaneo-kun". In 2013, co-produced a special program "NHK x NTV 60 Challenges" with Nippon Television Network Corporation which was received many awards including Social TV Award. In 2016, his program "Good Night Japan ZZZ..." became the first television program to be exhibited at an art festival ROPPONGI ART NIGHT. While producing television programs, Kawase also co-hosts a regular radio show at the local community radio station "Shibuya-no-radio".

Yasuyuki Kawanishi

Architect, Designer, Facilitator | President, ICHIBANSEN Co.,Ltd.

• UNIT 09 : Mobility

Born in Nara in 1976. Master graduated from the University of Chiba, Studied at the Royal Danish Academy School of Architecture as the guest student. After working at AREP-SNCF the group of French National Railway, he designed Nakamura Station for Tosa Kuroshio Railway, the resort train ‘Echigo TOKImeki Resort SETSUGEKKA’, trains, buses, houses, stations, shopping buildings, medical centers and welfare houses as the president of ICHIBANSEN Co.,Ltd. Nakamura Station had prized the Good Design Award 2010 Special Prize, the Watford Group Brunel Award 201, JCD Young Architect Award and others. Echigo TOKImeki Resort SETSUGEKKA had prized SBID The International Design Award 2016 Winner, IDA International Design Award 2016 Gold Winner and others.

Shogo Kishino

Art Director / Graphic Designer | President, 6D-K co.,Ltd. / Associate rofessor, Tokyo Polytechnic University

• UNIT 03 : Life products (Leisure and hobby)

Born in Tokyo. He established the graphic design studio, 6D, in 2007. With a focus on branding, he has been participating in a wide variety of activities from logos and packaging to spatial information design. Currently, he also works as associate professor in the Department of Design, Faculty of Arts, Tokyo Polytechnic University. His work in recent years includes the KIRIN Home Tap, KASHIYAMA the Smart Tailor, art direction of the JAL Steam School, Odakyu Line route map, packaging of Lotte ZERO, and signage plan for EWoMan/LUMINE0. He has won domestic and international design awards, including the Tokyo ADC, JAGDA, SDA, D&AD, Cannes Lions, DFAA, etc.

Wataru Kumano

Product Designer | Founder, kumano

• UNIT 04 : Life products (Kitchen tools and daily necessities)

Born in Tokyo, in 1980. From 2001 moved to Finland, studied Furniture design at Lahti Polytechnic (2001-2004 BA), and University of Art and Design Helsinki (Aalto University) for Postgraduate studies (2005-2008 MA).  Since 2008, back to Japan, and he has been a designer at Jasper Morrison Tokyo studio. Beside of that, established own design studio "kumano" in 2011, and works for interior, furniture, product design and project management, internationally. In 2013, He inaugurated R&D for Japan Creative.

Jin Kuramoto

Product Designer | Representative Director, JIN KURAMOTO STUDIO Inc.

• UNIT 03 : Life products (Leisure and hobby) | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong) / Uniit Leader

Born in 1976. After working at a home appliance manufacturer, he established JIN KURAMOTO STUDIO in 2008. With the approach of communicating the project concept and story through a clear formative expression, he has been involved in the design development of various genres, like furniture, home appliances, eyewear, and automobiles. He is also a part-time lecturer at Kanazawa College of Art and Musashino Art University.

Mana Kobayashi

Interior Architect | Design office ima

• UNIT 08 : Housing fixtures

Since 1998, she has been co-sponsoring Design Office Ima with Takashi Kobayashi. Centered on store design, she undertakes products, residential buildings, venue configurations for exhibitions, etc. Her upbeat spatial designs that skillfully incorporate colors and materials are demonstrated in products, housing, hotels, kindergartens, and others. Her main pieces include "marimekko," "IL BISONTE," "INOKASHIRA HOUSE," etc.

Corrin Chan

Architect | Director, AOS. Architecture

• UNIT 14 : Construction for industry, commercial and public facility | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

Ms. Corrin Chan is Registered Architect in Hong Kong. She is Vice-President of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects, Chair of the Hong Kong Architecture Centre (2015-2019), Director of AOS Architecture. Corrin has been awarded 'Jessica' the 10 Most Successful Women of the Year 2018. She received her Master Degree in Architecture and Urban Design from Columbia University (New York), Bachelor in Architecture (Distinction) from the University of Hong Kong. Corrin has organized and curated various architecture competitions, exhibitions, architecture-related events, such as, the '10-Most-Like Architecture in Hong Kong' 'Play to Change' 'Reveal 1' 'Reveal 2'. To promote Architecture to the public, Corrin is guest-host of a Radio programme and column writer for newspaper.

Hidenori Kondo

Creative producer, curator, Local.Biz editor in chief | Integration Director/Curator, Brand & Innvation Design Department, HAKUHODO INC.

• UNIT 18 : Project and activity / Focused Issues Directors

After joining Hakuhodo in 1994 and working as CM planner, he studied contemporary art in a masters program at New York University and returned to work. Centered on "sustainable design," his specialty is branding involved in sustainable life culture creation and social problem solving. His main business includes I LOHAS, EARTH MALL, Yahoo, JKA, Edo-Tokyo Museum, etc. He is author of "INNOVATION DESIGN" and "Tokai kara hajimaru atarashii ikikata no design," among others. He also presides over the community symbiosis house, KYODO HOUSE.

Seiichi Saito

Creative Director / Technical Director | CEO, Rhizomatiks Co., Ltd.

• Vice Chair | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

Born in Kanagawa in 1975, Mr. Saito began his career in New York in 2000 after graduating from Columbia University with a Master of Science degree in Advanced Architectural Design (MSAAD). Since then, he has been active in creative work at the Arnell Group, and returned to Japan upon being selected for the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial event. He produces works in the commercial art field which are three-dimensional and interactive while also being based on the firm grounding in logical thought that he cultivated through architecture. Mr. Saito has won numerous international awards from 2009. He currently serves as Director of Rhizomatiks Co., Ltd., while also lecturing part-time at the Department of Graphic Design in the Faculty of Kyoto Seika University. 2013 D&AD "Digital Design" Jury, 2014 Cannes LIONS "Branded Content and Entertainment" jury. Milan Expo Japan pavilion theatre space director, Media Art Director at Roppongi Art Night 2015.Good Design Award 2015-2017 Jury. Vice Chairman of Good Design Award 2018. Creative Adviser of 2020 Dubai Expo Japan pavilion.

Chiho Sasaki

User Experience Designer | Director, infield design inc.

• UNIT 01 : Life products (Accessories and healthcare)

After establishing infield design inc. in 2004, she has been performing consulting for UX design based on ethnographic research over a wide area, including healthcare, nursing, community, mobility, resource protection, and urban planning fields both domestically and internationally. She is author of "The 1st step of product planning" (Sekigakusha, joint authorship) and a part-time lecturer at Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and Music. She also worked at IDEO and GK Graphics. She holds a master's degree from the Institute of Design, Illinois Institute of Technology.

Yasuharu Sasaki

Creative Director | Managing Director / Executive Creative Director, Creative Planning Division 4, Dentsu Inc.

• UNIT 15 : Media, Contents and Packaging / Focused Issues Directors

He joined Dentsu in 1995. After gaining experience as copywriter, interactive director, and ECD of Dentsu America, he assumed his present post. Utilizing a hybrid of his digital and creative knowledge, he works as leader of a new area of creativity, while also carrying out global client relations in cooperation with overseas group bases. He has won many domestic and international advertisement awards, including Cannes Loins, One Show, and D&AD. He also has experience in judging for domestic and international awards, as well as in international keynote lectures.

Hiroki Sato

Ph. D. Design | Professor, Department of Design, Chiba Institute of Technology

• UNIT 11 : Equipment and facilities for shop, office and public space | UNIT 19 : (Korea) / Uniit Leader

Doctorate (in Design) obtained at Graduate School of the University of Tsukuba. Specializes in studies of kansei (sensitivity) evaluation on design. Worked in design development of automobiles at Honda R&D Co., Ltd. and served as a full-time lecturer at Nagoya Zokei University of Art & Design prior to taking up his current position at Chiba Institute of Technology in 2007. Director, the Japanese Society for the Science of Design. Member, the Japan Society of Kansei Engineering. Member, the Education Committee, the Japan Industrial Designers’ Association. Director, Street Design Research Organization. Co-author of "Product Design - For Those Who Are Involved in Product Development."

Takashi Shigeno

Product Designer | Executive Director, acinc.corporation

• UNIT 10 : Equipment and facilities for manufacturing and medical care

Graduated from the Industrial Design Department of the Kanazawa College of Art in 1993 and entered GK Industrial Design in the same year. In charge of design development for mainly housing equipment, household appliances, information equipment, audiovisual equipment, optical products, etc. Board Member at acinc.corporation since 2000. Conducts product design development across various genres focused on medical and health care equipment. Won many awards including the Good Design Award and Gold winner of the iF Design Award. Part-time Lecturer at the Tama Art University since 2016.

Satoko Shinohara

Architect | Professor, Japan Woman's University

• UNIT 13 : Housing (medium to large sized housing complex) / Uniit Leader

Shinohara explores architectural design feasibilities in actual design and field work, especially in complex housing design. In particular, she focuses on a comfortable living space for residents beyond the intention of the designer.

Fumie Shibata

Product Designer | Representative Director, Design Studio S / Professor, Musashino Art University

• Chair | UNIT 20 : (Taiwan)

After graduating from the Musashino Art University,she worked at a large electrical goods manufacturer and then founded Design Studio S. She has been working on many projects with domestic and overseas brands, including electronic goods, daily goods, medical equipment, and hotel creative direction. She has received among others the iF Gold Award, and the Design for Asia Top, Culture, and Gold Awards. Works as Professor of Musashino Art University. Author of the book 'Forms within Forms.'

Hisakazu Shimizu

Product Designer | President, S&O DESIGN Co.,Ltd.

• UNIT 02 : Life products (Kids and stationery)

President of S&O Design. Adjunct instructor at Tokyo University of the Arts / Kuwasawa Design School. As chief designer of Canon’s IXUS Digital series of digital cameras, achieved top market share worldwide for the series, and received numerous design awards, including Germany’s iF Design Award and Japan’s Good Design (G Mark) Award. Has continued to design products for various companies since establishing S&O Design. Has been attracting attention for wide variety of projects, such as the popular Regent in Olives presented at Setouchi Triennale 2013.

Xiaoxi Shi

Industrial Designer | 2-LA LLC

• UNIT 04 : Life products (Kitchen tools and daily necessities) | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

Xiaoxi is founder and Creative Director of 2-LA Design. Multiple award winning and highly recognized designer, TEDx speaker and Tsinghua X-lab EiR. Xiaoxi’s work has been widely published, respected and exhibited in museums and competitions. His award winning work ranges from product design, fashion design to furniture design. He is awarded by IDEA gold, Red dot Design, IF Design and G-marl Best 100. he also won top10 Chinese designer in year of 2016.

Shu-Chang Kung

Architect / Interior Designer | Chairman, Chinese Society of Interior Designers (CSID)

• UNIT 12 : Housing (personal residence, small sized apartment) | UNIT 20 : (Taiwan)

After he received M.Arch (1992) and M.Des. (1993) from GSD, Harvard University,USA, in 1997 he established AURA Architects & Associates in Taipei. Currently he is the professor at the Graduate Institute of Architecture, NCTU, Taiwan, and the chairman of Board, Chinese Association of Interior Designers (CSID). His recent works received many awards - The Special Jury Award of TID Award (2007/ 2008/ 2009), iF Communication Design Award (2007), Far Eastern Architectural Design Award (2003/2005), Taiwan Architecture Award (2004/2006/2008), JCD Design Award, Japan (2004/2006).

Yoshiharu Sugawara

Design Director | Executive Director, GK Design Group

• UNIT 09 : Mobility / Uniit Leader

Received a Bachelor of economics and management degree from Rikkyo University in Tokyo. Graduated from Urban Design College in Tokyo with automotive design. Joined GK Dynamics Inc., assigned to American branch office GK Design International Inc., for fifteen years. Concurrently serving as executive director of GK Design Group and President of GK Dynamics Inc., President of GK Design Europe B.V., in the Netherlands, and board member of GK Design International Inc. Involved with diverse mobility design consulting for American, European and Asian market. Received a Red Dot Award Honorable Mention in 2013.

Gen Suzuki

Product Designer | Director, GEN SUZUKI STUDIO

• UNIT 06 : Home appliances / Uniit Leader | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

Born in 1975. He is a graduate of the Design Products Program, at the Royal College of Art in the UK. After working at the London and Boston offices of IDEO, he established the GEN SUZUKI STUDIO in 2014. In the daily necessities, furniture, and home appliances domains, he creates designs with domestic and international businesses. He is a part-time lecturer at the Kanazawa College of Art, Tama Art University, and Musashino Art University.

Koichi Suzuno

Architect | CEO, TORAFU ARCHITECTS Inc.

• UNIT 05 : Home Furniture and household goods

Born in 1973. Graduated from Department of Architecture, Science University of Tokyo. Completed the Master Course of Architecture, Yokohama National University. Worked at Coelacanth K&H. Worked at Kerstin Thompson Architects / Melbourne. Founded in 2004 with Shinya Kamuro, TORAFU ARCHITECTS employs a working approach based on architectural thinking. Currently lecturer at Tokyo University of the Arts , Tama Art University and Tokyo City University. Guest professor at Kyoto Seika University and Ritsumeikan University.

Eisuke Tachikawa

Design Strategist | Founder, NOSIGNER

• UNIT 17 : Business model and method

CEO of NOSIGNER. Special visiting associate professor of the Graduate School of SDM at Keio University. Aiming for social design innovation, he works with comprehensive design strategies. His method, which makes use of architectural, graphic, and product insights, is recognized worldwide and he boasts over 50 major domestic and global design awards. He is the author of "Design and Innovation" (published by PIE International).

Manabu Chiba

Architect | Professor, Department of Architecture, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo

• UNIT 12 : Housing (personal residence, small sized apartment)

After graduating from the Department of Architecture, the University of Tokyo, he completed a master's program at the same university. After working at Nihon Sekkei and Factor N Associates, he established CHIBA MANABU ARCHITECTS in 2001. He assumed his present post in 2013. In 2016, he became vice president of the University of Tokyo (until 2018). His main work includes "Japan Guide Dog Center" (Prizes of AIJ (Architectural Institute of Japan)), "Otaki Town Hall" (UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation), and "Kogakuin University 125th anniversary education building" (The MuranoTogo Prize). He is also author of "rule of the site- sokoni shikanai keishiki" and "Hito no atsumarikata wo design suru," among others.

Chi mei Chang

Graphic Designer | Honorary President, Taiwan Graphic Design Association

• UNIT 15 : Media, Contents and Packaging | UNIT 20 : (Taiwan)

-Graduated from Pratt Institute Brooklyn, NY (Communications Design)
-Honorary President of Taiwan Graphic Design Association
-Creative Director of Optima Integrated Design
-Instructor of National Taiwan University of Arts
-Committee member of the XXIX Summer Universiade
-Judge of Golden Pin Design Award, Young Pin Design Award, Times Advertising Awards, Times Asia-Pacific Awards, Times Young Creative Awards, Taiwan Golden Print Awards, etc.
-Red dot Award: Packaging Design, Communication Design, Best Packaging Design Award of Taiwan External Trade Development Council, Golden Award of Golden Pin Design Award, Golden Award of Taiwan Visual Design Award (Visual Communication, Poster, Packaging, Publication), etc.

Naoki Terada

Architect/Designer | COO, inter office ltd.

• UNIT 08 : Housing fixtures | UNIT 20 : (Taiwan) / Uniit Leader

Completed the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA School) diploma course in the UK in 1994. Has designed and built brands for a variety of products, architecture and interior design. Founded Teradadesign Architects in 2003. Founded Terada Mokei in 2011. Opened Terada Mokei shop in 2013. Has assumed the post of COO at the Inter Office since 2017.

Mari Tochizawa

Architect | Co-Founder, SALHAUS Inc.

• UNIT 12 : Housing (personal residence, small sized apartment) / Focused Issues Directors

Completed the Department of Architecture, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science in 1999. After working at Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop Co., Ltd., coestablished SALHAUS in 2008. Conducts architectural design and urban development activities, and representative works include "Rikuzentakata City Takata Higashi Junior High School", "Gunma Agricultural Technology Center", "tetto", "Ougiya Ryokan", "Applause Azabu (housing complex)", etc. Awards received include the Architectural Institute of Japan's Annual Architectural Design Commendation, the Wood Design Award's top prize: the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award, etc.

Toshiharu Naka

Architect | President, Naka Arcthitects' Studio

• UNIT 12 : Housing (personal residence, small sized apartment) / Uniit Leader

Graduated from the Department of Architecture, Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo in 2001. After working at Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop, he established Naka Architects' Studio in 2009. He was a design assistant at Yokohama Graduate School of Architecture (Y-GSA) at Yokohama National University from 2009-2011, and exhibited at the Japan Pavilion of the International Architecture Exhibition at La Biennale Di Venezia in 2016. He designs architecture focusing on circulation. His main works include "Apartments with Small Restaurant" (Good Design Gold Award, Architectural Institute of Japan Young Architects Award, etc.), "Kazusa Kibo no go Omukai-san" (Chiba Prefecture's Cultural Architecture award), and the "Villa in Hakuba" (JIA Sustainable Architecture Award). He is the author of "Datsu-jutaku."

Mica Nakajima

Designer | Representative, Design*Magica

• UNIT 04 : Life products (Kitchen tools and daily necessities)

Born in Kyoto. Graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts. He worked mainly on home appliances, including "Healsio" and "Plasmacluster ion" products at Sharp Corporation. He left in 2011 and established Design*Magica. While performing total design and direction from brand building, product development, and promotion of traditional industries and regional industries, he has also won the Good Design Award for his walking assist robot, and is active in a wide range of fields.

Hidetomo Nagata

Strategist | Managing Officer, Home Business, Airbnb Japan K.K.

• UNIT 16 : System and Service

Visiting Professor at Kyoto University of Art & Design. Graduated from the University of Tokyo Faculty of Law. As a strategic consultant of IBM Business Consulting Services KK and PwC Advisory LLC, he was involved in new business strategy and service design through cities and areas, including smart cities, infrastructure export, and MICE strategy. He joined Airbnb Japan in September 2016 and has been in his current position since 2017. He is the author of "Professional Meeting" (Discover 21), etc.

Shiho Nagamachi

Lighting Designer | President, LEM Design Studio Co,Ltd.

• UNIT 11 : Equipment and facilities for shop, office and public space | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

Graduated from Kyoto Institute of Technology, visiting professor at Kyoto University of Art and Design, part-time lecturer at Osaka University.
She practices a variety of projects such as urban planning night scene design in public space, lighting plan for architecture and landscape, tourism town development with light at the core, public light art, and production of lighting brand.
Recent works "Kobe City Meriken Park" "Mizuki Shigeru Road" "Kusatsugawa Park" "Dojima Bridge Light Up" "Nusamaibashi Light Up" "Nagato Town Development" "INAKA Illumi Ohnan" Other

Yuko Nagayama

Architect | Executive Director, YUKO NAGAYAMA & ASSOCIATES

• UNIT 14 : Construction for industry, commercial and public facility / Uniit Leader

Born in 1975. Completed Showa Women’s University in 1998. After working at Jun Aoki & Associates, established Yuko Nagayama & Associates in 2002. Representative works: "Louis Vuitton Kyoto Daimaru", "a hill on a house", "ANTEPRIMA", "Kayaba Coffee",　"SISII", "Kiya Ryokan", "Teshima Yokoo House", "SEIBU SHIBUYA A・B bld. 5th floor", "Central Garden - Goddess of The Forest". Received awards: L’Oreal Encouragement Award, JCD Design Award, AR Award 2006 "a hill on a house", ARCHITECTURAL RECORD Award, Design Vanguard 2012, JIA Young Architect Award 2014 "Teshima Yokoo House", Yamanashi Cultural Prize of Architecture 2017, JCD Design Award 2017 Silver Award, Tokyo Architecture Award 2018 Excellent Award "Central Garden - Goddess of The Forest"etc.
Currently working on the Japanese pavilion for Dubai Expo 2020, and a high-rise building in Kabukicho, Shinjuku (2022)

Kota Nezu

Creative Communicator | CEO, znug design,inc.

• UNIT 09 : Mobility

Graduated from the Department of Design, Faculty of Engineering, Chiba University. He joined Toyota Motor Corporation and served as the concept development leader for the "i-unit," which was exhibited at EXPO 2005 AICHI, etc., He established znug design, inc. in 2005, and has been involved in the concept planning and design for many industrial products and contributed to the vitalization of corporate creative activities. While promoting projects including the electric motorcycle "zecOO" upholding the slogan 'from small town factory to the world' and the soft, small fabric mobility "rimOnO," he is also engaged in the development of GROOVE X "LOVOT," Toyota Motor Corporation's concept vehicle "Camatte," and others. Awards he has received include the Good Design Award, the iF Design Award, the Japan Society of Kansei Engineering Kawaii Kansei design top prize, the JAPAN WOOD DESIGN AWARD top prize, and others.

Jongrae Park

Space Designer | Associate Professor, College of Transdisciplinary Studies, DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)

• UNIT 11 : Equipment and facilities for shop, office and public space | UNIT 19 : (Korea)

An Associate Professor at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Jongrae Park, who is also the Director of the Korean Institute of Culture Architecture, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Product Design at Hongik University, Korea, in 1995. In 2006 he got his Masters Degree and PhD in the Design of Comprehensive Human Sciences at Tsukuba University. In that same year until 2007 he served as the Exhibition Director of Chiba City Science Museum Project at TOTAL MEDIA and until quite recently was a Project Conductor at UCHIDA YOKO handling building and designs of office environments in Korea and Asia.

Shigeki Hattori

Designer/Creative Director | Representative Director of graf, Professor at Kyoto university of Art & Design, Department of Infomation Design

• UNIT 18 : Project and activity / Uniit Leader

Born in Osaka in 1970. Studied sculpture at Art university. After working for an interior shop and a design firm, founded graf, a creative unit, in 1998. Besides providing design and art direction for architecture and interior decorating, he has demonstrated his abilities in community activities such as regional revitalization in recent years.

Yoshiharu Hamada

Product Designer | Professor, Product Design Division, Tama Art University

• UNIT 01 : Life products (Accessories and healthcare) / Uniit Leader

Born in Tokyo in 1970. Graduated in product design from Tama Art University. In 1996, he attended a graduate course in industrial design at the Royal College of Art, England. After working at in Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd, in charge of Product Design and Brand Direction, established Studio Galleryworks in Milan. Graduated from Domus Academy's master's course in design in 2002. Became an associate professor at Tama Art University since 2008. A Visiting Professor in the Oslo Art University, Norway in 2013.

Atsumi Hayashi

Producer | Co-Representative, Director, SPEAC, inc. / RealTokyoEstate

• UNIT 14 : Construction for industry, commercial and public facility / Focused Issues Directors

Born in Tokyo in 1971. Aside from managing the real estate website "REALTOKYOESTATE" and spatial creation online shop "toolbox," he also carries out business revitalization plan production for architecture and real estate, strategic planning for community management, project management of event spaces, accommodations, and restaurants, etc. He studied in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, the University of Tokyo and completed a Master of Science of Real Estate Development in the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Columbia University. After working at McKinsey & Company and domestic developers, he assumed his present post. He is president of TOOLBOX Co., Ltd. and a director of semicolon Co., Ltd. He is also a part-time lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University and in the Faculty of Engineering, the University of Tokyo.

Chiaki Hayashi

Project Manager | Co-Founder, Loftwork, Inc.

• UNIT 16 : System and Service / Uniit Leader

Co-founded Loftwork Inc. in 2000, which rolls out the diversely projects including web, community, and spacial design initiatives. The agency operates multiple services: "FabCafe", a digital manufacturing cafe, and "MTRL", a creative space for creators, "AWRD", a platform to promote co-creation with creators. She also serves as the Japan Liaison to the Director of MIT Media Lab, and CEO of Hidakuma. Hidakuma is a new form of public-private joint enterprise, which aims to create regional industries through traditional techniques and forest regeneration.

Masahiro Harada

Architect, Professor | Founder/Architect, MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO, Professor, Shibaura Institute of Technology

• UNIT 13 : Housing (medium to large sized housing complex)

Born in Shizuoka in 1973. Graduated from Shibaura Institute of Technology in 1997. He established MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO with Mao Harada in 2004 after working at Kengo Kuma & Associates, Jose Antonio Martinez Lapena and Elias Torres (Barcelona) as National Fellowship for Artist, and Arata Isozaki and associates. He has been a professor at the faculty of architecture at Shibaura Institute of Technology since 2016. His recent works include Seto(company housing), Chiryu Afterschool (Afterschool+local community center), Roadside Station Mashiko, Sengyo-ji(charnel house) etc. He won many awards such as the Leaf Awards 2010 and 2014, Young Architect Award of the Japan Institute of Architects 2015, JIA Awards Grand Prix and BCS Awards 2018.

Byung-wook Chin

Industrial Designer | Professor, Dept. of Convergence and Integration, Hansung University

• UNIT 07 : ICT equipment | UNIT 19 : (Korea)

Training future designers in University based on experience of working as a corporate background. A bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design of Dong-A University in 1988. A master’s degree in Industrial Design of Hongik University Graduate School in 2012. A doctor’s degree in Industrial Design of Hongik University Graduate School in 2016. The study of emotional design was mainly conducted. From 1987 to 2009, worked as Managing Director of Samsung camera Industrial design team. And Worked as Vice President for Samsung Digital Imaging Company from 2009 to 2010. And From 2010 to 2014, worked as Vice President of Samsung Electronics Mobile Division. From 2015 to present, work as professor at Hansung University. Also, from2012 to 2013, worked as Vice chairman of Industrila Design Society. From 2014 to 2017, work as Vice chairman of KAID (Korea Association of Industrial Designers). And From 2015 to 2017, act as Design managing consulting for various kinds of company. From March, 2018 to present, Vice Chairman of Korea Federation of Design Associations.

Naomi Hirabayashi

Art Director/Graphic Designer | Representative, PLUG-IN GRAPHIC

• UNIT 18 : Project and activity

Born in Tokyo. After graduation from Musashino Art University, She started working as an art director/graphic designer for Shiseido Co., Ltd. In 2002, She was granted an opportunity to go to England to temporarily work for MadeThought, a design studio in London.
After returning to Japan, She engaged herself in designing many ads for different products and creating a number of package and book-binding designs as a freelancer. The works She created have acquired her Tokyo ADC prize, NYADC GOLD, British D&AD, as well as many other awards.

Tamae Hirokawa

Creative Director / Designer | SOMA DESIGN

• UNIT 05 : Home Furniture and household goods / Focused Issues Directors

She established "SOMA DESIGN" in 2006, launched the brand "SOMARTA" at the same time, and participated in the Tokyo Collection. She won the Newcomer Award and the Shiseido Sponsorship Award of the 25th MAINICHI FASHION GRANDPRIX. In addition to a solo exhibition "Tamae Hirokawa - Body Genealogy," she worked on many collaborations with businesses, including the Canon "NEOREAL" exhibition, TOYOTA "iQ×SOMARTA MICROCOSMOS" exhibition, YAMAHA MOTOR DESIGN "02Gen-Taurs," etc. Her 2017 SOMARTA signature item, "Skin Series," was made part of the collection at MoMA and drew attention. She won the 2018 WIRED Audi INNOVATION AWARD.

Naoko Hirota

Design Director | Managing Director, Hirota Design Studio

• UNIT 17 : Business model and method

Graduated from the Department of Design, Tokyo University of the Arts. After working at GK Planning and Design, she established the Hirota Design Studio. She directs total solutions from designing business models to developing products. Received the Red Dot Award 2015, Red Dot Award 2016, iF Design Award, etc.

Huiming Tong

Industrial Designer | Professor, School of Innovation Design, Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts (China)

• UNIT 08 : Housing fixtures | UNIT 21 : (China, Hong Kong)

Born in 1955. He is also the vice-chairman of Guangdong Industrial Design Association (GDIDA), and a member of Industrial design Council, Chinese Fine Arts Association (CFAA). He has served as Chairman of jury council of Guangdong Governor Cup Industrial Design Award, jury member of China Red Star Award, and Chairman of KAPAK Design Award in Guangzhou International Design Week. As first-generation industrial designer in China, he began his career in 1977 working as a tableware designer at a porcelain company in Shandong, China. He founded INTEONE, a new BDD brand in Guangzhou in 2015.

Shigeki Fujishiro

Industrial Designer | CEO, shigeki fujishiro design Co.,Ltd

• UNIT 05 : Home Furniture and household goods

Shigeki Fujishiro left the acclaimed IDÉE Co Ltd in 2005 to found his own studio; shigeki fujishiro design. He has been active with interior products as the main axis. Fujishiro has recently collaborated with Hermès and Adidas ,CAMPER. And he also does planning, producing and selling products on his own. And Fujishiro was one of 16 designers who participated in 2016/, an international project commemorating the 400th anniversary of Arita ware.

Teppei Fujiwara

Architect | Associate Professor, Y-GSA, Yokohama National University

• UNIT 13 : Housing (medium to large sized housing complex)

Born in 1975 in Yokohama. He has been working not only as an architect, but also delves into urban development and educational activities that cross the borders of diverse areas, such as art and the performing arts. His main works include "Double circular rings in Todoroki," "Yoyogi Terrace," and "Inamura House and Gardens." He is author of "7inch Project〈#01〉Teppei Fujiwara," among others. He has also won the Culture and Art Encouragement Award of the Yokohama Cultural Award, Encouragement Award of the Japan Federation of Architects and Building Engineers Associations Award, Residential architecture prize of the Tokyo Society of Architects and Building Engineers Awards, etc. He was also a judge and exhibition committee member of the UBE Biennale.

Miles Pennington

Educational Innovator | Professor, Institute of Industrial Science / Design Led X Platform, The University of Tokyo

• UNIT 17 : Business model and method / Focused Issues Directors

Miles Pennington is professor of Design Led Innovation and helps direct a unique international innovation lab at The University of Tokyo – the DLX Design Lab. Previously he was at the Royal College of Art in London and was Head of Programme of the Innovation Design Engineering (IDE) joint Masters programme with Imperial College - he is an alumnus of the IDE programme and graduated in 1992. He was also Founder and Head of the international exchange programme Global Innovation Design (GID) programme. In the past in parallel to his academic work he was a Director of the London office of the innovation consultancy Takram. He moved to Japan in September 2017 to join the University of Tokyo.

Mitsunobu Hozumi

Product Designer | President, Hozmi Design

• UNIT 08 : Housing fixtures / Uniit Leader

Completed Graduate School at Kyoto City University of Arts. After working at the Head Office Design Department of Misawa Homes Co., Ltd., he established Hozmi Design. Involved with developing common products, industrial equipment, housing equipment, building components, furniture for public spaces, and local industry. Awards received include the iF Design Gold Award, IDEA Gold Award, Red Dot Design Award, German Design Award Special Award, Good Design Special Award, etc.

Hiroko Matsumoto

Product Designer | Professor/Head of Department, Joshibi University of Art and Design

• UNIT 06 : Home appliances

As Designer and Design Director at the Toshiba Design Center, she undertook the design of many products and mechanisms, such as household appliances, audiovisual equipment, healthcare, etc. Received many awards domestically and from overseas, including the Good Design Gold Award, iF Gold Award, and Red Dot Design Award Gold Award, etc. Currently, Head of the Product Design Department, Joshibi University of Art and Design. Involved in many regional and academia-industry collaboration projects, she solves problems for the community and for corporations through the design of "objects and conceptual embodiments".

Manfred Wang

Product Designer | Professor, Department of Design, National Taiwan Normal University

• UNIT 06 : Home appliances | UNIT 20 : (Taiwan)

Professor of design at National Taiwan Normal University and Principal Creative Advisor for Qisda Corporation. Prior to 2013, Wang was the Vice President & Chief Design Officer of BenQ & Qisda Group and the General Manager of QisDESIGN Lifestyle Products Business Unit. Under his guidance, BenQ and Qisda have won more than 375 international design awards. Manfred Wang graduated with a Master of Industrial Design from Stuttgart State Academy of Art and Design Germany in 1994.

Haruka Misawa

Designer | Director, Misawa Design Institute, Nippon Design Center, Inc.

• UNIT 15 : Media, Contents and Packaging

After working at the design office nendo, she joined the Hara Design Institute at Nippon Design Center in 2009. In 2014, she began work as the Misawa Design Institute.

Katsuo Mizuguchi

Art Director | President, Hotchkiss Inc.

• UNIT 15 : Media, Contents and Packaging / Uniit Leader

Graduated from the Kanazawa College of Art. After working at Dentsu Inc., he participated in the establishment of Shingata Inc. in 2003. He started up Hotchkiss Co., Ltd. in 2012. He undertakes art direction for various brands, which includes advertisements, graphic designs, package designs etc. He also manages "Books under Hotchkiss", a book store gallery in Kanazawa. He wrote "A Model for Art Direction -30 Rules for Designs That Convey-" (Seibundo Shinkosha) and "Mr. Mizumaru Anzai, Teach Me Design! -Mizumaru Anzai Format Research Society-" (Hotchkiss).

Tasuku Mizuno

Lawyer | CITY LIGHTS LAW

• UNIT 16 : System and Service

Lawyer (CITY LIGHTS LAW). A director of Creative Commons Japan. A director of Arts and Law. Senior researcher of the Keio Research Institute at SFC (Legal Design Lab) and part-time lecturer at the same university. Part-time lecturer in the University of Tokyo's graduate school. He is engaged hands-on legal service and advanced and strategic law for startups in the IT, creative, and urban development fields, new businesses of major corporations, and corporate planning. He also works as a member or advisor to administrations and municipalities. He is the author of "Legal Design - Accelerating Creativity and Innovation through Law" and co-author of "Open Design Now - Why design cannot remain exclusive," among others.

Kazushige Miyake

Designer | CEO, miyake design co., ltd.

• UNIT 02 : Life products (Kids and stationery) / Uniit Leader | UNIT 20 : (Taiwan)

Born in Hyogo Prefecture in 1973. Established miyake design in 2005. Designs a wide range of items, from home electrical appliances and furniture to household sundries and traditional Japanese products for companies both domestically and overseas. He is a part-time lecturer at Tama Art University.

Tetsu Miyazawa

Design Director / Product Designer | President, &design Co., Ltd.

• UNIT 06 : Home appliances

Born in 1972. After working mainly at Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd. and Samsung Japan Corporation, he established &design co., ltd. in 2007. With expertise in problem-solving proposals based on product design, he has been involved in a variety of domestic and international corporate projects, from design strategy to direction work leading to actual products. He has received many domestic and international awards, including the iF GOLD AWARD, Red Dot Award "Best of the Best," and others. He is a part-time lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering and Design at HOSEI University, and Product Department Design Director at NTT DOCOMO, INC.

Kaie Murakami

Designer / Creative Director | Founder / CEO, SIMONE Inc.

• UNIT 01 : Life products (Accessories and healthcare)

After working at MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO from 1994 to 2002, he established SIMONE in 2003. He performs practical creative consulting and business development that integrates technology, design, and marketing for both domestic and international businesses. His main work: LOUIS VUITTON, LEXUS, UNDERCOVER (campaign building), Parfums Christian Dior, adidas, Shiseido, Isetan Mitsukoshi (product development, packaging, advertising design), GSIX, THE PARK-ING, UNITED ARROWS, and others (WEB＆APP development). Awards: Cannes Lions GOLD, NY ADC, and others.

Tamotsu Murakami

Design Engineering Researcher | Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Tokyo

• UNIT 10 : Equipment and facilities for manufacturing and medical care

Graduated from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, the University of Tokyo in 1984, and the Department of Industrial Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, the University of Tokyo in 1989. Doctor of Engineering. In English, the term, "design" is used for both engineering design and industrial design. Murakami’s areas of expertise are research and education on the mathematical methods and software/hardware technology that assist designers and give full scope to their originality and diversity to design (design by human) and create products that can provide new values to meet the users' needs, sensibilities and diversity (design for human).

Chiaki Murata

Product Designer, Design Producer | Representative Director, hers design inc.

• UNIT 03 : Life products (Leisure and hobby)

He graduated from the Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Engineering, Osaka City University and after working at SANYO Electric, established his own company in 1986. He has won over 160 international awards and was chosen as Newsweek's "100 globally noticed small and medium enterprises of Japan." He is also involved in regional development, including the operations of business consortium METAPHYS, as well as Tokyo Crafts and Design by the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Echizen iiza, Tottori TOTT, Niigata Hyakunen-Monogatari, etc. He is author of "A Textbook for social design," "Design thinking for behavior," and "Potential of Sensibility Thinking," He is director of the Japan Design Consultants Association and the Eco Design Network (NPO).

Takayuki Morikawa

Mobility Designer | Professor, Global Research Institute for Mobility in Society, Nagoya University

• UNIT 09 : Mobility

Researching on advanced mobility and transportation systems. As the research leader of Nagoya University Center of Innovation, developing autonomous vehicles and mobility service systems fitted to transportation poor areas.

Masayuki Moriguchi

Mobility Journalist | CEO, MOBILICITY Co., Ltd.

• UNIT 09 : Mobility

Gathers information on traffic conditions at home and abroad for magazine, radio and Internet presentations, and lectures. Also works as a reserch and consulting to provide solutions to mobility related problems. Selection comitee member of Car of the Year Japan. Publications include "A Challenge to Environmental Society in Paris," "Transportation Revolution from Toyama," and "How will be our Society - Autonomous Driving will Start?"

Yoko Yasunishi

Designer | Director, DRILL DESIGN Co,.Ltd.

• UNIT 05 : Home Furniture and household goods / Uniit Leader

Established DRILL DESIGN with Yusuke Hayashi. She creates designs in a number of categories centered on product design. She often participates in projects from art direction, material development, and technological development, and broadens new possibilities with clients in Japan and abroad. Awards she has received include the Red Dot Design Award, the German Design Award, the Good Design Special Award, and the Wallpaper* Design Award, among others.

Teruhiro Yanagihara

Designer | CEO, TERUHIRO YANAGIHARA STUDIO LTD.

• UNIT 04 : Life products (Kitchen tools and daily necessities)

Since the establishment of his own office, Teruhiro Yanagihara has been involved in various projects worldwide, working across national borders, culture and categories as a designer.

Jun’ya Yamaide

Artist | Executive Director, NPO BEPPU PROJECT

• UNIT 18 : Project and activity / Focused Issues Directors

Born in 1970 in Oita, Japan. General producer of the "Mixed Bathing World"(2009,2012,2015) ・"in BEPPU"(2016-),General derector of the "Kunisaki Art Festival"(2014). Board Member of the Council for Cultural Affairs, Cultural Policy Section(2016-2018)

Nobuyoshi Yamazaki

Product Designer | Associate Professor, Faculty of Fine Arts Department of Design, Tokyo University of the Arts

• UNIT 07 : ICT equipment

Graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts, 1995. Engaged in design consulting at Hirano Design Co., Ltd. from the same year. Transferred to NEC Design Co., Ltd. in 2005, and performs product and solution design and design management of information terminals and public systems. After that, he led the organization of design functions in NEC's innovation strategy and was the director of the company's design center. Incumbent from 2016, specializing in UX and product solutions, value renovation.

Ryo Yamazaki

Community Designer | CEO, studio-L, Inc.

• UNIT 18 : Project and activity

Born in Aichi in 1973. Graduated from the graduate school of Osaka Prefectural University and the graduate school of the University of Tokyo. Received PhD in engineering. After working at Architecture and Landscape Design Office, Ryo Yamazaki established studio-L in 2005. He is involved in community design helping local people to solve local problems. He has a number of projects related to community development workshops, including general planning creation with resident participation and grass-roots park management. He has won awards including the Kids Design Award for "Parent-and-Baby Notebook." Author of "Community Design" (awarded by the Real Estate Companies Association).

Yu Yamada

Buyer, Director | President, method inc.

• UNIT 03 : Life products (Leisure and hobby) / Uniit Leader

Born in Tokyo. After being a buyer for IDEE SHOP in Minami Aoyama, Yu Yamada founded method inc. in 2007 and began working as a freelance buyer. Currently President of method inc. In 2013, he released "Discover Japan Special Issue: Kurashi no Senmonten" published by Ei-Publishing, and in 2014, he released "The method of shop success" published by Seibundo Shinkosha.

Tomohiko Yamanashi

Architect | Senior Executive Officer, Architectural Design Department, NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD

• UNIT 14 : Construction for industry, commercial and public facility

Graduated from Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music in 1984, and earned a Master of Urban Engineering degree from the University of Tokyo in 1986. Since joining Nikken Sekkei Ltd, he has been engaged in architectural design management.
Proactively promotes BIM, a design method using computers, and development of the practical operations of computational design. His representative works include Jinbocho Theater (SD Review, JIA Young Architects Award), Mokuzai Kaikan building (MIPIM ASIA Special Jury Award, JIA Award), Hoki Museum (JIA Grand Prix, BCS Award), and NBF Osaki Building (formerly called Sony City Osaki) (AIJ Annual Architectural Design Commendation). Publications include "Google Sketchup – Super Manual" (Nippon Jitsugyo Publishing), "Building Information Model" (Nippon Jitsugyo Publishing) and "How to Design the Ultimate Ecological Architecture" (X-Knowledge Co., Ltd.).

Satoshi Yoshiizumi

Designer / Creative Director | Representative, TAKT PROJECT Inc.

• UNIT 01 : Life products (Accessories and healthcare)

Graduated from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering, Tohoku University. After positions at Design Office nendo and Yamaha Design Laboratory, he co-founded TAKT PROJECT . He has undertaken experimental independent research projects seeking to "create other possibilities" through design and exhibited them at art museums and design exhibitions both in internationally. He develops a diverse selection of projects with our clients based on those results. Received many domestic and international awards, including iF Award, Red Dot Award, German Design Award, Good Design Award. Also, his work has been collected in Hong Kong M+.