AI: Moving Beyond Hype into Real-World Infrastructure
Tokyo has cemented its status as the premier destination for global technology in 2026, hosting the SusHi Tech event to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence theory and practical, large-scale deployment. Industry heavyweights, including Howard Wright of Nvidia, Rob Chu from AWS, and Eric Benhamou of Benhamou Global Ventures, are leading sessions that strip away the marketing noise to address genuine risks and implementation strategies. The exhibition floor mirrors this focus, featuring university-led AI startups alongside global tech giants. Simultaneously, the AI Film Festival Japan at the Tokyo Innovation Base in Yurakucho offers a real-time look at how AI is fundamentally reshaping contemporary culture.
Robotics: The Rise of Physical AI
At SusHi Tech, robotics have stepped out from behind the glass and onto the show floor for direct interaction. The event highlights the evolution of software-defined vehicles, with insights from leaders at Nissan, Isuzu, and Applied Intuition’s Qasar Younis. These discussions confirm that “Physical AI” is no longer a speculative future trend; it is a current reality being demonstrated in Tokyo this April 27.
Resilience: Engineering the Cities of the Future
As global threats evolve, Tokyo is positioning itself as a hub for urban survival strategies. Experts like Eva Chen (Trend Micro) and Noboru Nakatani (NEC) are tackling the critical intersection of cyber defense and infrastructure. Furthermore, top climate tech venture capitalists from Breakthrough Energy and Cleantech Group are analyzing capital flow into sustainable solutions. Attendees can experience the stakes firsthand through VR disaster simulators and guided tours of Tokyo’s massive underground flood-control facilities.
Entertainment: Japan’s Cultural Engine Meets AI
Tokyo is aggressively pursuing the title of the “Hollywood of animation.” CEOs from Production I.G, MAPPA, and CoMix Wave Films are convening to discuss the future of the industry. On the exhibition floor, startups are showcasing cutting-edge AI tools designed to translate manga for global audiences, generate music from text prompts, and transform Japanese intellectual property into high-quality anime for worldwide distribution.
Can’t Make It to Tokyo? You Can Still Be There
Distance is no longer a barrier to participation. Remote attendees can access more than just a standard livestream; on-site staff are equipped with devices that display the remote participant’s face, allowing for real-time, face-to-face interaction with exhibitors and attendees on the floor.
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Note: Please note that some sessions may not be available for viewing.
Apply for remote participation with on-site staff support here.
For those seeking standard digital access, ticket holders can stream sessions online from anywhere in the world. Browse the full session list here.
In parallel to the startup event, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is hosting a summit for leaders from 55 cities across five continents. The focus is “A New Urban Future Built on Climate and Disaster Resilience.” As part of the G-NETS (Global City Network for Sustainability) forum, established in 2022, these leaders are addressing common urban challenges, specifically climate disaster resilience and citizen well-being. The summit is accessible to the public via YouTube, both in real time and on-demand.
SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 runs April 27–29 at Tokyo Big Sight. Business days are April 27–28; public day (free admission) is April 29. Register here.
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