Digital Twin: A New Solution for Urban Challenges in Tokyo

Introduction

Tokyo is facing a range of challenges in its rapidly changing urban environment, including a declining birthrate and aging population, shifts in the flow of people and goods, the crisis of climate change, and the need to prepare for a potential major earthquake directly beneath the capital. To address these issues, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) is advancing the use of digital twin technology.

What is a Digital Twin?

A digital twin is a virtual reproduction of various elements of the physical world—such as infrastructure like buildings and roads, economic activities, and patterns of human movement—created in cyberspace (a virtual space on computers and networks) using data collected from sensors and other sources. It functions as a “twin” of the real world.

The Benefits of Digital Twin Technology

１） Real-Time Data Collection Linked to the Physical World

Advanced sensor and communication technologies enable the real-time collection of diverse data from the physical environment.

２） Analysis and Simulation Using 3D Space

Rather than relying solely on flat maps, advanced analysis and simulation can be conducted within a three-dimensional space that replicates the real world and functions as a testbed-like environment.

３） Feedback to the Physical World

By feeding simulation results back into the physical world in real time, the data can be used to support decision-making and system control.

By applying various technologies to Tokyo’s administration, the TMG aims to enhance the Quality of Service (QoS) in public services and improve the Quality of Life (QoL) for its residents.

Data featured in the Digital Twin 3D Viewer

The TMG’s 3D viewer integrates a wide range of data sources. It provides detailed 3D digital maps of urban structures—such as buildings, roads, and sidewalks—across Tokyo. Point cloud data obtained through laser surveying offers highly precise information about terrain and buildings, helping to better understand Tokyo’s urban landscape. Additionally, the project aggregates location data for facilities such as parks, schools, and medical institutions, as well as real-time data on city buses, river flow rates, and traffic volume. Overlaying different types of data enables a multifaceted understanding of urban conditions.

Use Cases of the Digital Twin

Real-time data

１）　Checking Real-Time River Data

By combining data such as river water levels, estimated inundation areas, surveillance camera feeds, and evacuation site information, users can identify appropriate evacuation locations in advance, helping ensure safer and more effective evacuation during a disaster.
 

Click the picture above to access the 3D viewer.

２）　Checking Real-Time Location Data of Toei Buses(City Bus)​​

In addition to route and bus stop data, real-time bus location information—updated every 20 seconds—allows users to track the current position of Toei buses.

Click the picture above to access the 3D viewer.

Visualization of Damage Assessment

To support recovery efforts following the Noto Peninsula Earthquake that struck Ishikawa Prefecture on January 1, 2024, the TMG has published damage assessment data—such as slope collapses, surface cracks, and 3D point cloud data showing the extent of damage—on its Digital Twin 3D Viewer. This data visualizes the extent of damage, including coastal uplift and conditions in urban areas, allowing for detailed comparisons between pre- and post-disaster states. The information is being used to aid Ishikawa Prefecture’s recovery and disaster prevention efforts, and the insights gained will also be applied to enhance Tokyo’s own disaster preparedness.

Point Cloud Visualization: Pre- and Post- Disaster Comparison
Left: Before Disaster｜Right: After Disaster

Click the picture above to access the 3D viewer.