Web3 remains vibrant! What are the highlights of WEBX?
Asia's largest Web3 event, WebX, grandly opened on August 25th at the Park Tower Prince Hotel near Tokyo Tower. Top entrepreneurs, technology experts, policymakers, and investors from around the world gathered to discuss the future directions of blockchain technology, decentralized finance, and the metaverse.
What exciting highlights does this event have? Let’s follow (WEB3+) to find out!
Highlight 1: From Ichiban Prize to Shopping Street Lottery, it's full of Japanese atmosphere!
Originally arriving with some concerns, especially during a time that seemed to lack explosive new topics, it was uncertain what highlights the WebX exhibition could bring.
However, the moment I stepped into the exhibition area, all my worries vanished. The bustling crowds, creatively filled displays at various booths, and the enthusiastic discussions among participants immediately conveyed the vibrant life force of Web3. Especially seeing many projects that were once popular but have since disappeared, there is a sense of 'Oh, you are all still alive!' that is truly moving.
Even more surprising is that despite the constantly changing market trends, related projects focused on games, NFTs, and various applications still account for about half of the exhibition.
Multiple well-known Web3 projects have conducted deep collaborations with Japanese anime IPs, not only showcasing limited edition NFTs but also launching blockchain games and metaverse content themed around popular characters.
A game that combines with the well-known anime Attack on Titan, called SNPIT.
Many booths adopted Japan's traditional 'Ichiban Prize' or 'Shopping Street Lottery' model, where visitors can receive lottery tickets by completing specific tasks or interacting with the booths.
These lottery activities have rich prizes, ranging from Bitcoin, exclusive limited NFTs, physical merchandise, to discount coupons from partners, making every interaction full of surprises and truly creating a feeling of playing in a shopping street!
Ichiban Prize is drawn! One of the prizes is a 500 yen Amazon shopping gift voucher.
Highlight 2: Gamified interactive experiences, LINE Mini APP point collection challenge
WebX 2025 features a section primarily promoting Mini APPS that are deeply integrated with the LINE ecosystem.
LINE Mini App is a lightweight application that runs integrated within the LINE communication software. It does not require users to download or install a separate app and can be opened and used directly from the LINE main interface.
There are many existing mini-games in the venue. By completing tasks (following, playing games, taking photos, entering lotteries, etc.), participants can collect stamps and return to the counter to enter the lottery.
Highlight 3: Relaxation massages and tea ceremony experience
In an exhibition filled with digital information and technology displays, WebX 2025 created a 'mind and body oasis' for attendees. This exclusive area offers professional relaxation massage services, allowing everyone to unwind and regain energy amidst a busy schedule.
Adjacent to the relaxation massage area is a tranquil 'Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience' space. A tea master dressed in a kimono elegantly serves visitors cups of matcha, allowing them to experience Japanese aesthetics and Zen in a serene atmosphere.
Highlight 4: Political and business leaders gather on stage
The WebX venue is not only a showcase for technology and applications but also a center for idea exchange. The exhibition features multiple stages set up for high-quality speeches and forums happening simultaneously.
This event once again highlights the Japanese government's firm support for the Web3 industry. Not only are global Web3 leaders gathering, but important figures from traditional financial institutions and large companies in Japan’s non-Web3 sectors will also take the stage to share their observations on the industry.
Representatives from heavyweight companies such as SBI Holdings and Toyota took the stage to share how traditional industries embrace and utilize blockchain technology to achieve business transformation and innovation, demonstrating that Web3 in Japan has evolved from a mere technological craze to a solid force for cross-industry collaboration.
Highlight 5: A plethora of vibrant and creatively stimulating side events.
The charm of WebX 2025 lies not only in the formal agenda during the day but also in the diversity and creativity of its surrounding activities.
For instance, today (25th) at the venue, there will be a historic event, Japan's first 'Blockchain Wedding,' where participants can witness the eternal vows of newlyweds being recorded on the blockchain and experience how Web3 can integrate with significant moments in life.
Blockchain wedding experience, where the couple's eternal love vows are recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain.
In addition to the post-WebX party, Tokyo's nightlife showcases its diverse aspects and endless vitality. Various post-event parties combining music, unlimited drinks, and even poker provide an excellent occasion to transition from formal exchanges to relaxed socializing, allowing participants to build deeper connections in a cyberpunk atmosphere.
Overall, although it lacks eye-catching and interesting projects or narratives, the activities at WebX seem to help people rediscover the enduring vitality of Web3.
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