Woven City Officially Launches: A New Era of Urban Innovation

In a momentous event marked by the presence of Toyota's top executives and a gathering of around 90 media representatives, Woven City was launched with great fanfare. Chairman Akio Toyoda, affectionately known as the 'Master Weaver,' addressed the audience, emphasizing the historical significance of the project. Toyoda's vision, initially announced after the closure of the Toyota Higashi-Fuji Plant, has now materialized into a living, breathing city that integrates cutting-edge technology with a focus on community well-being. This initiative not only preserves the legacy of the former plant but also embarks on a new chapter supported by partners from various industries beyond automotive.

Senior Vice President Daisuke Toyoda, a pivotal figure in bringing Woven City to life, expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the project. Acknowledging the challenges faced along the way, he highlighted the spirit of collaboration and innovation that has driven the project forward. The concept of 'kakezan,' or multiplication through collaboration, was central to his speech, reflecting the city's mission to foster innovation by weaving together diverse fields and cultures. This approach, he hopes, will continue to generate new ideas and values, expanding like a spiral—an embodiment of the city's vision to connect the past, present, and future.

The philosophy of Woven City is deeply rooted in Toyota's history, drawing inspiration from the Toyoda wooden hand loom invented in 1890 by Sakichi Toyoda. This invention, aimed at easing his mother's work, symbolizes the company's long-standing commitment to improving lives. Today, this ethos continues to inspire the city's development. Despite facing numerous obstacles, the project's leaders have remained steadfast in their dedication to the principle of working for the benefit of others. The launch event also welcomed singer-songwriter Naoto Inti Raymi, joining a cohort of 20 Inventors dedicated to advancing the city's mission.

As part of its commitment to innovation, Woven City is hosting the 'Toyota Woven City Challenge—Hack the Mobility,' an accelerator program inviting submissions from aspiring Inventors. This initiative seeks to harness the city's extensive resources to push the boundaries of technological advancement. Participants are encouraged to leverage the city's infrastructure to develop solutions that can redefine urban mobility. This ambitious program reflects Woven City's role as a hub for emerging technologies and its dedication to fostering creativity and innovation.

Beyond its technological aspirations, Woven City places a strong emphasis on community health and well-being. The city's guiding principle, 'Health comes first,' underscores the importance of creating a healthy environment as the foundation for happiness and innovation. This holistic approach aims to ensure that residents and visitors can thrive in a vibrant, supportive community. As the city evolves, it aims to serve as a model for future urban developments, blending advanced technology with a deep commitment to human-centric values.

Looking ahead, Woven City stands as a testament to Toyota's vision for the future—a city where technology and humanity coexist harmoniously. As it opens its doors, the city invites people from all walks of life to participate in its journey of discovery and innovation. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, Woven City aims to inspire other urban centers worldwide. This launch marks not just the culmination of years of planning and hard work, but the beginning of a new era of possibilities.