As part of my research collaboration with The Future Laboratory at Tsinghua University and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), I contributed to a project that digitally transformed Japan’s Tanabe Plum System—a UNESCO-recognized GIAHS agricultural heritage—into an interactive experience. This initiative, which utilized platforms like Roblox, integrated narrative design, XR visuals, and interactive elements to both preserve cultural heritage and promote sustainability in the digital age.

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The project’s primary objective was to reimagine the Tanabe Plum System in a digital format that could connect with younger, digitally-savvy generations while also serving as a platform for international cultural exchange. By applying narrative design principles, I worked to ensure that the immersive digital experience reflected the cultural and ecological importance of the Tanabe Plum system. The integration of XR visuals allowed the digital landscape to recreate the intricate natural environment and farming processes, emphasizing sustainability while highlighting the importance of local biodiversity and agricultural practices.

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The use of Roblox as a platform enabled the creation of a gamified environment, where users could explore and interact with the digital representation of the Tanabe Plum System. This approach allowed participants to learn about the agricultural heritage interactively, while also encouraging them to consider its relevance in the context of global sustainability.

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Throughout the course of this project, I collaborated with agricultural experts and digital media developers, participating in discussions that brought insights into the intersection of traditional knowledge and digital technology. The project also encouraged cross-cultural dialogue, facilitating an exchange between global participants and stakeholders, further cementing the role of digital media in safeguarding and promoting agricultural heritage in the modern world.

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This project underscores the potential of digital transformation to not only preserve cultural heritage but also engage new generations in ecological and sustainable practices. By combining interactive technologies with traditional agricultural knowledge, it provides a forward-looking model for the future of agricultural preservation and cultural engagement. The integration of sustainability into the digital experience ensures that the project addresses contemporary global challenges, making the Tanabe Plum System’s digital recreation both an educational tool and a catalyst for further innovation.

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In conclusion, this collaborative effort exemplifies how emerging digital platforms can be leveraged to engage global audiences, promote sustainability, and preserve the rich agricultural traditions that form the backbone of our cultural and ecological identity. This experience has further reinforced my belief in the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the transformative potential of digital technologies in the preservation and promotion of intangible cultural heritage.