Notes:
This webpage provides a comprehensive overview of entities engaged in the development of virtual humans and related technologies in Japan. It outlines contributions to areas such as XR and AI software, avatar creation platforms, holographic companions, cloud streaming for XR content, synthetic data generation, real-time character operation, and conversational interfaces. The list reflects the integration of advanced digital human systems into entertainment, telecommunications, gaming, advertising, and research sectors. It also highlights the role of academic societies and studios in supporting innovations in photorealistic avatars, speech recognition, and virtual character performance. Collectively, the entities featured represent a diverse ecosystem driving Japan’s leadership in virtual human and metaverse development.
See also:
[42x Jul 2025]
- 1SEC Inc. – Based in Los Angeles and Tokyo, 1SEC develops AI/XR software and NFT content, including Japan’s first digital fashion label, 1Block.
- Activ8 – A talent agency known for producing virtual YouTubers and creators like Kizuna AI.
- Advanced Media Co., Ltd. – Developer of AmiVoice, applying speech recognition to virtual assistants and AI characters.
- Alt Inc. – A Tokyo-based startup creating personal artificial intelligence clones to automate human tasks.
- ANYCOLOR Inc. – ANYCOLOR uses digital human tech in VTuber ops, active in XR and metaverse fields.
- Asobisystem – Asobisystem blends idol management with digital human tech in projects like KAWAII LAB. and Kizuna AI.
- AVATARIUM – A 3D avatar creation platform enabling customization for use in VR/AR content.
- AVITA Co., Ltd. – A robotics-based company led by Hiroshi Ishiguro, building avatars to create a virtualized real world.
- Aww Inc. – Japan’s first virtual human creative studio, known for producing Asia’s leading virtual model, imma.
- BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment – A major entertainment firm creating games, live performances, and virtual IP-based experiences.
- CESA (Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association) – Promotes Japan’s computer entertainment industry, including games and virtual experiences.
- Couger – Develops AI-powered virtual human agents combining machine learning and real-time interactivity.
- Crypton Future Media Co., Ltd. – Developer of Hatsune Miku and other Vocaloid characters, integrating music and digital personas.
- Curiosity, Inc. – A studio designing XR-based immersive attractions and digital entertainment experiences.
- CyberAgent, Inc. – Internet media conglomerate behind ABEMA TV and AI-powered entertainment ventures.
- Cyber AI Productions – Specializes in 3DCG-based digital human advertisements and media algorithm analysis.
- Datagrid Inc. – Uses AI to generate synthetic data and virtual human assets for diverse industries.
- DELTA-V Co., Ltd. – Manages real-time virtual character operations across entertainment platforms.
- Digital Human – Offers conversational AI chatbot platforms with realistic humanlike interfaces.
- Gatebox – Creator of the Gatebox home device featuring holographic AI character partners like Azuma Hikari.
- GREE – Operates a popular mobile gaming platform and has developed virtual character content.
- Gugenka – Runs XR product services like MakeAvatar and HoloModels for creating anime-style avatars.
- Horipro – Traditional talent agency expanding into virtual talent development and management.
- INCS toenter Co. – Developer of Vocaloid artists and voice-synth–based digital clones.
- KDDI CORPORATION – Telecom giant investing in XR and avatar technologies for next-gen communication.
- Kizuna AI Inc. – The official operation of the globally famous virtual talent, Kizuna AI.
- MAWARI – Provides cloud streaming infrastructure for large-scale XR content distribution.
- Nijisanji – One of Japan’s largest VTuber agencies with dozens of virtual talents.
- NTT – Major telecom provider also conducting advanced R&D in AI and virtual presence.
- NTT Communications – Offers enterprise solutions including VR spaces and avatar-based services.
- NTT DATA – Delivers global IT services with research into digital human interfaces.
- NTT DoCoMo – A mobile operator integrating AI, avatars, and XR into its consumer services.
- NTT Research – Explores quantum and informatics research for next-gen AI and virtual agents.
- One To Ten Co., Ltd. – A creative agency merging XR and AI to build near-future virtual experiences.
- Pixiv Inc. – Platform for creators, enabling avatar creation and distribution through virtual services.
- Real Avatar Production – Creates photorealistic 3D avatars from full-body scans at Aoyama 3D Scan Studio.
- rinna Co., Ltd. – Develops AI characters and chatbot personalities for individuals and enterprises.
- TELYUKA – A high-fidelity virtual human character project that functions as a photorealistic digital avatar.
- The Japanese Society for Artificial Intelligence – Academic society supporting AI research, including virtual human development.
- Toei Zukun Research Institute – A unit of Toei Co. exploring digital human and set technologies for media.
- Toppan – Produces high-end printing and digital visual content, including virtual models and avatars.
- Virtual Human Lab – A Cougar-led initiative combining neuroscience, AI, and gaming for virtual human agents.