Niigata Prefecture’s Sanjo City will host the Virtual SANJO Photo Contest, a collaborative event with popular VTuber Echigoya Tokina, set within the metaverse space “Virtual SANJO.”
The initiative aims to showcase Sanjo’s unique appeal and local content through the metaverse, while fostering new connections and engagement with audiences beyond the region.

New Initiatives in the Metaverse

The photo contest will run from January 19 to February 19, inviting submissions of photographic works utilizing the stand objects of Tokina Echigoya, installed within “Virtual SANJO.” Outstanding works will be showcased on the “Virtual SANJO portal site” and exhibited within the metaverse. Participation is completed by posting photos on Twitter (X) with the designated hashtags “#VirtualSANJOPhotoContest,” “#VirtualSANJO,” and “#TokinaEchigoya.”

Details of the Kick-off Event

A kick-off event will be held on January 24. This event will feature a talk session with Tokina Echigoya and a photography workshop by creator BUSSAN. To join this event, which will take place in the VRChat world “Virtual SANJO,” participants must join a dedicated group and enter a special instance. For more details, please check the official Virtual SANJO website.

Promoting the Attractions of Sanjo City

Sanjo City is known as a “Monozukuri Town,” centered on metal processing, and has promoted many traditional crafts and daily goods. Additionally, its recognition as an outdoor manufacturer is rising, and the high quality of its agricultural products is also a significant attraction. This photo contest aims to provide more people with the opportunity to experience the diverse facets of Sanjo City and appreciate its charm.

Reflections and Future Outlook

This photo contest is gaining attention as a new initiative for tourism and regional PR utilizing the metaverse. By merging digital technology and local resources, it serves as an opportunity to rediscover the allure of Sanjo City from a creative perspective. Moving forward, we hope that such initiatives will increase and serve as a model case for widely promoting regional charm.

Source: PR TIMES