Robot Communication Experiment at Miraikan, Odaiba: Sept 21-23, 2026

The Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation) in Odaiba will host an experimental demonstration titled "Creating Robots That Can Become Friends with Humans -- Communication with Robots Through Pictures and Words" from September 21st to 23rd, 2026. This event is part of the "Laboratories to Create the Future" initiative, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with developing technologies.

Exploring New Relationships with Robots

The core of this experiment features "Hanamoflor," a child-like companion robot designed for gentle interaction. With its calm voice and gentle gaze, Hanamoflor aims to be a "heart partner" for everyone from the elderly to children, in various settings like facilities and homes. Through interaction with Hanamoflor, participants will explore how "kindness" and "consideration" can be fostered between humans and robots, contributing to the verification of the robot's social acceptance and the development of symbiotic support technologies.

Communicate with Pictures and Words

Participants will have the chance to show their drawings and letters to Hanamoflor, engaging in a novel form of communication. The experience involves creating a drawing or letter (approx. 10 minutes), interacting with Hanamoflor (approx. 5 minutes), and completing a short questionnaire (approx. 5 minutes), for a total of about 20 minutes. This hands-on activity allows visitors to envision a future where robots and humans coexist harmoniously.

Event Details

• Event Title: Creating Robots That Can Become Friends with Humans -- Communication with Robots Through Pictures and Words
• Venue: Miraikan, 1F Communication Lobby
• Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• Dates: September 21 (Mon, Holiday) - September 23 (Wed, Holiday), 2026
• Time: 11:00-13:00 and 14:00-16:30 daily
• Admission: Free with Miraikan admission ticket
• Eligibility: Open to all
• Participation: Numbered tickets will be distributed at the venue. Distribution for the morning session starts at 10:00, and for the afternoon session at 13:00.

Practical Information

Admission to Miraikan is required. Numbered tickets are essential for participation in the interactive session. It is advisable to arrive early, as tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis for each time slot. Please be aware that filming may occur for promotional and research purposes; individuals who do not wish to be filmed should inform staff. Personal photography is permitted for private enjoyment, provided no other visitors are in the frame. Subtitles can be arranged upon prior request.

Access

The venue is easily accessible via the Yurikamome line at Tokyo Big Sight Station or the Rinkai line at Kokusai-Tenjijo Station. As an indoor facility, the event can be enjoyed regardless of weather conditions. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website for the latest updates and guidelines before attending.