OSAKA - A special performance of Super Kabuki, featuring kabuki actors including Nakamura Shidō alongside virtual singer Hatsune Miku, was staged at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, pushing the boundaries of live entertainment through cutting-edge communication technology.
The cross-border production connected Japan and Taiwan via live video using NTT’s next-generation optical communication technology known as IOWN. This allowed for near real-time transmission with virtually no delay, enabling actors in Japan and video feeds from Taiwan to perform in perfect sync.
The system, which reduces latency by half and transmits up to 125 times more data than conventional networks, marks a significant leap in immersive telepresence. This was the first time the international line linking NTT and a Taiwanese telecom firm—established in August last year—was put to use. The event transmitted 8K video from Japan and 4K video from Taiwan simultaneously.
"We want to use this kind of technology to spread Japanese culture globally," one representative said, emphasizing the broader ambitions behind the collaboration.
In addition to the stage event, expo visitors could experience other demonstrations of emerging technologies. One booth featured an ultra-wide screen showcasing what Japan calls ‘Beyond 5G’, the successor to current 5G networks. This new standard, aimed for deployment in the 2030s, offers faster speeds and the ability to handle massive data loads.
One exhibit allowed visitors to play virtual catch with a digital avatar. Through real-time data transmission, participants not only saw the ball but felt tactile feedback when catching it, creating a sensation akin to touching a real object. The technology enables transmission of sensory input—such as texture and impact—alongside audio and video.
Another hands-on feature was a simulation of flying base stations. In disaster scenarios where communication lines are down, aircraft equipped with base station functions could be deployed to restore connectivity. This concept also relies on Beyond 5G’s high-speed, high-capacity framework.
Japan aims to accelerate awareness and adoption of these next-generation systems through large-scale demonstrations like the Expo. Organizers say events like this are essential to showing the public what’s possible with cutting-edge telecommunications technology.
Source: Television OSAKA NEWS
