FOSS4G-Asia 2024

The Current State of Collaboration between Digital Twin and OSM in Japan: A Case Study of Project PLATEAU
12-16, 17:00–17:15 (Asia/Bangkok), Auditorium Hall 2

In recent years, 3D city models have become crucial for urban planning and research. Japan's Project PLATEAU has led the development of open 3D city models and point cloud data, with over 100 cities releasing Digital Twin data in CityGML format by February 2023. This talk explores the collaboration between Japan's Digital Twin initiatives and the global OpenStreetMap community. Since 2022, Japan's Digital Twin data, following the ODbL license, has been integrated with OpenStreetMap using specially developed tools. This integration aims to promote the global adoption of 3D city models, enhancing urban development through the synergy of Digital Twin technologies and OpenStreetMap.


In recent years, 3D city models have become increasingly important for urban planning, citizen engagement, and research, driven by advancements in technology and infrastructure. Many cities and countries have adopted these models to address urban challenges, enhance public participation, and aid decision-making processes.

Particularly in Japan, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism through its Project PLATEAU, has championed the use of open 3D city models and 3D point cloud data. As of February 2023, over 100 cities are actively developing and releasing Digital Twin data in CityGML format. This initiative is highlighted in the research findings by Binyu et al. and is also featured in the 3D City Index benchmarking report, where seven out of the 40 evaluated cities (18%) are Japanese.

This report delves into the ongoing collaboration between the Digital Twin initiatives in Japan and the global OpenStreetMap community. The open digital twin data in Japan, adhering to the open database license ODbL, has been integrated with OpenStreetMap. Tools and converters have been specifically developed to facilitate this integration. Since 2022, this integration has been explored experimentally, in collaboration with both national and international communities. The dissemination of the results and the challenges faced is anticipated to further encourage the global adoption and utilization of 3D city model data, demonstrating the synergistic potential of combining Digital Twin technologies with OpenStreetMap for enhanced urban development.