Diversity and Inclusion transformation with tech at Akihabara’s at-home cafe!

Pixie Dust Technologies Inc. (PxDT) and Infinia Co., Ltd. are joining forces to make the “at-home cafe,” a maid cafe managed by Infinia, more inclusive for international visitors and individuals with hearing impairments. The aim is to eliminate language barriers and provide a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy the unique charm of Japan’s maid cafe culture. Launching during the Chinese New Year, a peak tourism season, the initiative focuses on fostering communication and enhancing the experience for diverse audiences.

In 2024, Japan hosted over 30 million tourists, many from non-English-speaking regions such as China, Germany, France, India, and Brazil. Visitors to Akihabara will experience Japan’s famed hospitality in an environment tailored to their needs.

Historically, maid cafes have struggled to fully engage visitors with hearing impairments. While Infinia has emphasised non-verbal communication through gestures and expressions, some barriers persisted. This new initiative incorporates visualised communication tools to ensure hearing-impaired guests can seamlessly enjoy the at-home cafe’s entertainment.

The partnership leverages Pixie Dust Technologies’ “VUEVO Display,” a real-time translation tool that supports over 100 languages. By breaking down linguistic barriers, visitors can understand iconic phrases like “Arigatou,” “Kawaii,” and “Moe Moe,” enhancing their experience.

The VUEVO Display also facilitates real-time conversation visualisation in Japanese, allowing individuals with hearing impairments to participate fully. This innovation fosters a space where inclusive communication thrives, creating connections and shared experiences.

Pixie Dust Technologies combines computer science with proprietary wave control technology to manipulate sound and light. The company’s vision of “Digital Nature” supports its focus on enhancing sensory experiences like sight, hearing, and touch. PxDT also applies these innovations to address workplace challenges using metamaterials and other cutting-edge solutions.

“We are confident that this project will allow international tourists and individuals with hearing impairments to deeply connect with the charm of maid cafes and at-home cafe beyond language barriers. We will continue exploring new ways to bring joy to a broader audience,” said Infinia CEO Koki Fukazawa.

The project will run from January 29 to March 31, 2025, at the Akiba Cultures Zone, welcoming all visitors to experience this inclusive approach to the unique maid cafe culture of Japan.