TSUKUBASCIENCE
CITYTransportation Access■TrainAkihabara Station

45min

Mito Station

30min

Ueno Station

45min

■Car

Tsukuba Station(Tsukuba Express)
Tsuchiura Station(Joban Line (Limited Express))
Tsuchiura Station(Joban Line (Limited Express))

Misato IC

20min

Yatabe IC (Joban Expressway)

Mito IC

25min

Sakura-Tsuchiura IC (Joban Expressway)■Highway

65min

Tokyo Station

80min

Mito Station

25min

Tsukuba Center (bus)

Tsukuba Center
Tsukuba Center■Access from the Major Airports
Narita Airport

55min

Tsukuba Center (highway bus)

Haneda Airport

120minTsukuba Center (highway bus)

Ibaraki Airportt

60min

Tsukuba Center (highway bus)

Inquiries

Regional Development Division
Ibaraki Prefecture Department of Policy Planning978-6 Kasahara-cho, Mito, Ibaraki
Tel: 029-301-2678
http://www.pref.ibaraki.jp/soshiki/kikaku/chikei/index.html

Published in March,2023

IBARAKI Prefectural Government

Tsukuba Science City was developed as national project aiming to easeovercrowding in Tokyo through the systematic transfer of national
experimental research institutes and other facilities, and the creation of a
hub of high standard research and educational institutions.
It has become the largest Science City in Japan resulting from thesystematic transfer and new establishment of national research, educationaland other institutions from Tokyo as well as the maintenance of city facilities
and the implementation of private companies.
Currently, Tsukuba Science City has 29 national, semi-national and otherresearch and educational institutions such as Advanced Industrial Scienceand Technology (AIST), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA),
University of Tsukuba, and various private research centers and otherinstitutions. Approximately 20,000 people from the public and private sectors
work at research institutions located in the city.
Tsukuba Cityʼs public transportation has dramatically improved as well.
“Tsukuba Express (TX)” was opened in 2005 and it allows for a commute to
the Tokyo metropolitan area (Akihabara sta.) in 45 mins. In 2015,
Metropolitan Inter-City Expressway (Ken-O-Expressway) was connected
directly to Narita Airport through maintenance.
Furthermore, in 2020, together with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, thecity was selected as a Start-up Ecosystem Global Hub City and is working
towards the formation of a world-class start-up ecosystem hub. Additionally, in
2022 Tsukuba was designated as a ʻSuper City International Strategic Special
Zoneʼ, with the participation of local residents, the aim is to advance towards
a futuristic society which is expected to be realized in around the year 2030.
The city is expected to develop even more it has become the hosting region of
the G7 Science and Technology Ministersʼ Meeting in Tsukuba, Ibaraki(2016) and the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy in
Tsukuba, Ibaraki (2019).

Contents
１ Introduction of the City …………………………………… ２
２ History of the City s Founding ………………………… ２
３ Hub of R&D Centers and their Activities ………… ３■Research and Educational Institutions……………………… ３■Location of Research and Educational Institutions ……… ４■Researchers and Research Exchange ……………………… ５■Creation of New Technologies and New Industries …… ７
■Creating a startup ecosystem bound to become
the new economic development engine …………………… ８■Wide Range of Projects ………………………………………… ９

４ Outstanding Living Environment …………………… 11■City Space with Rich Greenery ……………………………… 11■Cultural Facilities/Commercial Establishment …………… 12■Diverse Educational Environment …………………………… 12■Enriched Medical Treatments ………………………………… 12■Future Course of City Center Urban Development−Tsukuba City Center Area Development Vision−−Tsukuba City Center Area Development Strategy− …… 13
A Map of Tsukuba Science City ……………………………………… 14
A Chronological Table of Tsukuba Science City ………………… 16

01

Introduction of the City

Tsukuba Science City is located at about 50km
North East of the metropolitan area of Tokyoand has excellent access from the metropolitan
area including an approximate 45 min trainride from Akihabara Station by the Tsukuba
Express (TX), and approximate 45 min car
ride from Narita Airport using theMetropolitan Inter-City Expressway(Ken-O-Expressway).
Tsukuba Science City is formed by entire
regions of Tsukuba City, and consists of“Research Center District” and “Surrounding
Development District”. The former is a district
where national, semi-national and otherresearch and educational institutions,commercial and business facilities, as well as aresidential area (Appx.2700 ha) aresystematically allocated. The latter district isthe balanced surrounding area of the“Research Center District” that is planned fordevelopment (Appx. 25,700 ha).
The cityʼs population is about 240,000, of
which about 10,000 are foreigners,
representing 4% of the population.
Reference: "2020 Population Census".

The international Exposition Tsukuba, Japan(1985)

G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy
in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (2019)2

T S UKU B A SCIENCE CITY03

Hub of R&D Centers and their
Activities

Research and educational institutions

Through the systematic transfer of national research and educational institutions from Tokyo, there are currently 29 researches
and educational institutions established in Tsukuba Science City aiming to ease overcrowding in Tokyo and conduct
high-quality research and education.
The city is near the metropolitan area of Tokyo and has rich nature, attracting many private research centers and making it
the largest hub of scientiﬁc technology in Japan.

02

History of theCityʼs Founding

In 1963, the founding of the city was approved by theJapanese government. After 1970, construction ofresidential areas, research and educational institutions
continued, and the relocation of 43 research andeducational institutions planned in 1980 (currently 29
institutes due to consolidations and other circumstances)
was completed.
Relocations of large-scale commercial facilities to the city
continued and in 1985, the International Exposition
Tsukuba, Japan, which served as an opportunity to spreadthe “TSUKUBA” name to the world, was held.
In 2005, the TX (express train) started its operation.
Following this, the surrounding environment of the city
has dramatically improved through the opening of Ibaraki
Airport and the Ken-O-do expressway and other projects.
In 2011, Tsukuba City was designated as Tsukuba
International Strategic Zone and Tsukuba Science Citycelebrated its 50th anniversary in 2013 from the approvalof Japanese government and has since ﬂourished as a hub
for scientiﬁc technology.
Since then, the city has grabbed the worldʼs attention due
to hosting the G7 Science and Technology MinistersʼMeeting in Tsukuba, Ibaraki (2016) and the G20
Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy in
Tsukuba, Ibaraki (2019)©AIST

Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)©IMSSHigh Energy Accelerator Research Organization©IMSS(Photon factory)

National Research and Educational Institutions(29 institutions that were selected for transfer or new construction by the Science City Construction Promotion Headquarters

Educational
Institutions(7 institutions)Cabinet Office:①National Archives of Japan, Tsukuba Branch
Ministry of Foreign Affairs:②Japan International Cooperation Agency
Tsukuba Center
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, andTechnology:③University of Tsukuba④Tsukuba University of Technology⑤High Energy Accelerator Research Organization⑥National Museum of Nature and Science,
Tsukuba Region⑦National Institute for School Teachers and Staﬀ
Development

Construction
Institutions(6 institutions)

Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications:⑧NTT Access Network Service Systems Laboratories
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, andTechnology:⑨National Research Institute for Earth Science andDisaster Prevention
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation, andTourism:⑩Geospatial Information Authority of Japan⑪National Institute for Land and InfrastructureManagement⑫Public Works Research Institute⑬Building Research InstituteScience andEngineering
Institutions

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, andTechnology:⑭National Institute for Materials Science⑮JAXA
Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry:⑯National Institute for Advanced Industrial Scienceand Technology

Science andEngineering
Institutions(7 institutions)

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation, andTourism:⑰Meteorological Research Institute⑱Aerological Observator⑲Meteorological Instrumentation Testing Center
Ministry of the Environment:⑳National Institute for Environmental Studie

Biological
Sciences
Institutions（8 institutions)

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, andTechnology:㉑RIKEN Tsukuba Research Institute
Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare:㉒National Institute of Biomedical Innovation,
Tsukuba Primate Research Center㉓National Institute of Biomedical Innovation,
Research Center for Medicinal Plant Resources
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries:㉔Tsukuba Business-Academia Cooperation Support
Center, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Research Council Secretariat㉕National Agriculture and Food Research
Organization㉖Japan International Research Center for
Agricultural Science㉗Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute㉘Yokohama Plant Protection Station, Tsukuba Field

Joint Use
Institutions(1 institution)

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, andTechnology:㉙Tsukuba Center for Institutes

Total 29 institutions※total area is 1,400ha

T SUKU B A S C IE NC E C IT Y

3

Researchers and research exchanges

Location of Research and
Educational Institutions

A total of 20,000 people from the public and private sectors work at research institutes located in Tsukuba Science City, andvarious research exchanges are conducted.
Furthermore, the city constantly attracts foreign researchers including those who visit the city for business or international
conferences from all over the world for its high level research environment, making
it a city where world-class skilled
Classiﬁcationindividuals can actively take part in their work.

■Number of Researchers at Tsukuba Science City

National Archives of Japan,

International Cooperation❷ JapanAgency Tsukuba Center❸ University of Tsukuba❹ Tsukuba University of Technology

Access Network Service Systems❽ NTT
Laboratories

ay

sw

es

Research Institute for❾ National
Earth Science and Disaster Prevention
Geospatial Information❿ Authority of Japan

n

ba

↑Mito

Jo
Tsukuba Station

7,711

4,109

National Universities

2,546

2,275

175

75

2,646

554

Total

13,459

7,104

Total Researchers(A) + (B)6,189

16,827

7

2,828

6,196

19,6552020 Survey of Foreign Researchers in Tsukuba Science City

sw

BampakuKinenkoen
Stationay⓭ Building Research Institute

Tsukuba
Chuo IC

Tsuchiura
StationNationalities
and Regions

Number ofPeoplePercentage of
Total

Rank

Nationalities
and Regions

Number ofPeople

1

China

2,275

36.7

7

Indonesia

167

2.7

2

Korea

399

6.4

8

Malaysia

167

2.7

3

India

274

4.4

9

France

156

2.5

4

Taiwan

237

3.8

10

Thailand

124

2.0

5

Vietnam

231

3.7

Other

1,989

32.1

6

USA

177

2.9

Total (157 Countries)

6,196

Jo

Tsukuba Smart IC
Now open

SakuraTsuchiura
IC

s

es

es

pr

Rank

Percentage of
Total

pr

Ex

Ex

O

E

n

n-

r
xp

ba

Ke

Kenkyu-Gakuen
Station⓬ Public Works Research InstituteNational Institute for⓮ Materials Science

Independent
Organizations

Foreign
Researchers(B)■Breakdown of Foreign Researchers Based on Nationality and Region

Institute for School Teachers❼ Nationaland Staff Development

National Institute for Land91

Source: 2020 Survey Overview of Institutes Located in Tsukuba Science City

National Museum of Nature and Science,❻ Tsukuba Region⓫ and Infrastructure Management

381

PublicEntities: Public-service Corporation/
Educational Corporation
Limited Private
Private:Companies, etc

High Energy Accelerator❺ Research Organization

Japanese
Researcherswith PhDs

National Institutions
PublicInstitutions:❶ Tsukuba BranchJapanese
Researchers(A)

Organization

Classiﬁcation

2020 Survey of Foreign Researchers in Tsukuba Science City

⓯ JAXA⓱ Meteorological Research Institute

Tsukuba JCT

Midorino Station
Yatabe IC
ess

Institute for Advanced⓰ National
Industrial Science and Technology

aE
Tsu

kub

⓳ Meteorological Instrumentation Testing Center⓴ National Institute for Environmental Studies

Arakawaoki
Stationxpr⓲ Aerological Observatory

TsukubaUshiku IC

Hitachino-Ushiku
Station↓Akihabara■ Foreigner Researcher Housing
Foreign researcher housing is provided for foreign researchers, and theirfamilies, who conduct research projects in research institutions and universities.
These facilities provide support for living in Tsukuba, such as procedures fortransferring schools, consultations regarding food and shopping, Japanese
language classes for residents, and cultural events.

RIKEN Tsukuba Research Institute■ Various Exchange Events

National Institute of Biomedical Innovation,
Tsukuba Primate Research Center
National Institute of Biomedical Innovation,
Research Center for Medicinal Plant Resources

Ushiku Station

Tsukuba Business-Academia Cooperation Support Center,Agriculture,
Forestry and Fisheries Research Council Secretariat
National Agriculture and Food Research Organization
Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences
Forestry and Forest Products Research InstituteYokohama Plant Protection Station, Tsukuba Field
Tsukuba Center for Institutes

4

T S UKU B A SCIENCE CITY

↓TokyoExpressway
National Highway
Major Road
Joban Express
Tsukuba Express
Research/
Educational Institution

Ninomiya House International
Residence for Researchers

Tsukuba Science Academy

Tsukuba Science City Network

Established in 2000 through the help of Dr. ESAKI Leo,recipient of the Nobel Prize for Physics and former
president of the University of Tsukuba. It oﬀers
cross-disciplinary research exchange events for scientists
and technologists to report their ﬁndings, independentand informal interaction opportunities for researchers,
and seminars on science and technology.
http://www.science-academy.jp/

The goal of this network is a developed city, achieved
through collaboration in mutual research exchange andconsideration of joint issues by its members. It is composedof various oﬃces, including national, prefectural, municipal,
national education bodies, independent, and private researchand educational institutions. It undertakes measures forcreating a low carbon-emitting society, professional
development of researchers, access to public information,
and advanced information sharing.
http://www.tsukuba-network.jp/
T SUKU B A S C IE NC E C IT Y

5Creation of New Technologies and New Industries■ Tsukuba International Congress Center

Tsukuba International Congress Center was opened in 1999 withthe aim of enhancing the cityʼs research exchange functions.
Mr. ESAKI Leo is the director of the congress center. It has been
the venue for many international and national conferences, aswell as science events held for junior high and high school
students such as ”Science Casting” and “Tsukuba Science Edge”.

Tsukuba Science City has high-standard research institutions that have been generating a number of achievements.
Furthermore, the city has recently been promoting eﬀorts to create innovations by making the most out of scientiﬁc technology
and skilled personnel of various ﬁelds.

■ Numbers of venture companies

Up until now, they have created 399 venture companies (152 from AIST and 186 from University of Tsukuba). The Universityof Tsukuba boasts the fourth largest number of university-launched ventures in the country (2021), and the amount of funding
has increased rapidly in recent years. In 2018, this ﬁgure exceeded 5 billion yen and has since reached approximately 8.4 billion
yen in 2021.

Introductions of the facilities and equipment

A Big hall (For up to 1,258 people)
Two Mid-size halls
Nineteen Conference rooms that can be connected with
monitors making it is possible to hold conferences of up to2,500 people. It has also a multipurpose conference room,
Japanese room, rooftop garden, restaurants and more.
Equipment such as A 400 inch wide high-luminance andhigh-deﬁnition projector, simultaneous interpretations for up
to 6 foreign languages, and more.

Tsukuba International Congress Center（as of Mar,2022）（companies: the total amount）（1milion yen）

350
300
250

213 216 224
193 203200 164 175 184
150

Main Achievements of International Conferences

240 250270

288

302 312

338

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

5,233

5,048

4,000
2,000

2007

8,431
6,848

6,000

50
0

10,000
8,000

100

2016 G7 Science and Technology Ministersʼ Meeting in Tsukuba, Ibaraki
2018 The 17th World Lake Conference (Ibaraki Kasumigaura 2018)2019 G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy in Tsukuba, Ibaraki

http://www.epochal.or.jp■Amount of raised funds by Universityof Tsukuba venture companies■Number of venture companies created in AIST
and University of Tsukuba (As of Mar,2022)

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

1,455

0
2017

18

19

20

21

Reference: “AISTʼ s initiatives to develop startupsʼ Startup Development initiative” https://unit.aist.go.jp/spattdi/tmb/aist̲startup.pdf
Reference: “Industry-University Collaboration at the University of Tsukuba https://www.sanrenhonbu.tsukuba.ac.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/sanren̲pamphlet̲rev202206.pdf

Views of International Conferences■ Tsukuba Science Tour

■ New Technology Developed in Tsukuba

Tsukuba Science City, a hub of many research and educational institutes, oﬀers “Tsukuba Science Tour” in which you can see
and experience cutting-edge research achievements. There are about 50 facilities that oﬀer site-visits.
Tsukuba Science Tour Oﬃce (The Science and Technology Promotion General Incorporation Foundation of Ibaraki) carries
out total support services such as introducing highlights of each research institutes, planning and proposing eﬀective,
educational site visits.
In addition, buses that loop around 6 research and educational facilities (The Science Museum of Map and Survey, Tsukuba
Botanical Garden, Tsukuba Expo Center, Geological Museum, Science Square TSUKUBA, and Tsukuba Space Center) areavailable on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. It is possible to get on and get oﬀ at any of the spots and take a site-tour or astroll.

Drive Unit 300
An industrial use underwater drone that supports
construction work, professionalsʼ work and otherjobs under water
FullDepth Co., Ltd. https://fulldepth.co.jp/

Research Institutions oﬀering tours (some examples)

Wearable cyborg HAL
The worldʼs ﬁrst wearable cyborg.By attaching it toyour body, you can improve, support, enhance, andrestore your bodyʼs physical functionsCYBERDYNE INC. http://www.cyberdyne.jp/

Tsukuba Expo Center
Tsukuba Expo Center is an institution
where you can look, experience, andenjoy scientiﬁc technology by visiting thescience museums including the world's
largest planetarium
http://www.expocenter.or.jp/

6

T S UKU B A SCIENCE CITY

AIST (National Institute of Advanced
Industrial Science and Technology)
Science Square TSUKUBAThe Science Museum of Maps andSurveying,Geospatial Information
Authority of JapanThe Production Technology Showroom
introduces a wide range of AIST's
research results that are valuable tofuture society
https://www.aist.go.jp/sst/ja/

A facility with comprehensive displays on
the history, principles and systems of
mapping and surveying
https://www.gsi.go.jp/MUSEUM/

Prism Camera(high-end machine)
This camera can take color pictureseven in pure darkness.It visualizes
things that could not be seen before
through infrared multispectral
solution.
Nanolux.Co.,Ltd.
http://www.tsukuba-network.jp/

One of the worldʼs smallest micro satellite
Development of micro satellite by a University ofTsukuba venture company “Warpspace”
Warpspace Inc. https://warpspace.jp/

T SUKU B A S C IE NC E C IT Y

7

Creating a startup ecosystem boundto become the new economic development engine
Start-up companies that aim to develop new business models and achieve rapid growth have great potential to contribute tosolving social problems, developing innovative technologies, creating new industries and new economic development. Tsukuba
City formulated the "Tsukuba City Startup Strategy" in December 2018. And is making every effort to create and support
growth, with the aim of becoming a "startups-friendly city of implemented science and technology."
On November 18, 2019, Tsukuba City signed a MOU with CIC (Cambridge Innovation Center), one of the world's largest
innovation centers, and on December 11, Ibaraki Prefecture signed another MOU with the global accelerator, ERA(Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator), on the basis of mutual support, and strengthening support for overseas expansion.
Furthermore, support measures will strengthen once the city is recognized as the base city for the startup ecosystem by thenational government (application pending as of March 2020).

Announcementof
Strategy

FY2019〜FY2020
Industrial
Promotion
CenterRenovated
ReopenImplementing
Hackathon
Sharing of
Research
Equipment

Implementing
SBIR
TsukubaversionSocietal
Installation
Trial

FY2021

Starting measures such as startup
one-stop support and seminar / matching

FY2022Upgrading thestartup ecosystem
in Tsukuba

Season 2 Strategy
Planning

Mid-Term Review

Schedule for implementing key
measures of startup strategy

FY2018Startup-friendly City

City of Implemented Scienceand Technology

Emphasizing on promoting new entries(up to FY2019)

Emphasizing on promoting the transition
into commercialization (from F Y 2020)

Stand by Startups

City of Deployment

Enhancing the startup ecosystem withspace maintenance and promotions

Promoting growth with a full-scale launch of SBIR
Tsukuba version / Social installation trial for startups■ Incubation Facilities

Wide Range of Projects
Tsukuba Science City is blessed with rich potentials as a large number of the world's most advanced science and technology
seeds are based here, making the city a birthplace for a wide range of projects.

■ Ibaraki Space Business Creation Center ProjectAs space business is becoming a fast-growing industry, Ibaraki prefecture is
working in collaboration with JAXA, the national government, and otherorganizations to actively promote the creation and attraction of spaceventures, as well as new entry by companies in the prefecture.
Accelerating
commercialization ofchallenger
companies
Creating anenvironmentthat supports
the spacebusiness●Financial support for space-related companies, etc.

・Subsidies for new product development and overseas sales
channel development●Commissioning of advanced efforts to establish
business models

・Many advantages such as support by commissioning, advice by
experts, and speaking at prefectural pitch meetings●Operation of the Ibaraki Space Business Creation Platform
・Year-round accompaniment support by experts to companies, etc
・Conducting small-scale, highly specialized brainstorming meetingsand matching support

Governor OIGAWA (2nd from the left),
YAMAKAWA Chairman of JAXA (right)●Joint research with the Ibaraki Prefecture s Industrial
Technology Innovation Center, etc.
・Conducting joint research and testing with companies in theprefecture■ Smart City Initiatives in Tsukuba

Tsukuba Center, Inc. (TCI)
TCI was established in 1988 with the investment of Ibaraki
Prefecture, Development Bank of Japan, and private companies.
The goal is to promote exchange and collaboration between
industry, academia and government researchers,
foster R&D venture companies, match with investors,
and provide rental laboratories.
https://www.tsukuba-tci.co.jp/

Our aim is to actualize safe, secure, and comfortable travel in a suburban city that is highly dependent on automobiles, byenhancing public transportation services using mobility data, improving the convenience of public transportation through facialrecognition, and implementing personal mobility that senses the environment and biometric information.
Preventing traffic jams inadvance by optimizing thequantity of traffic flow

Enriching public transport
services for promoting the useof public transportation

Tsukuba Start-up Plaza / Branch Office

The facility was established by Ibaraki Prefecture in 2003 as an
incubation facility where incubation managers and coordinators are
stationed to support entrepreneurs aiming to create new businesses.
In 2019, a branch office (startup office) opened in front of Tsukuba
Station, aiming to promote establishment and improve convenience.
Tsukuba Start-up Plaza
https://www.tsukuba-tci.co.jp/office/plaza
Tsukuba Start-up Office by Ibaraki Pref.
(Tsukuba Start-up Plaza Annex)
https://www.tsukuba-tci.co.jp/office/Tsukuba Start-up
Tsukuba Start-up
Office by ibaraki Pref.
Plaza
plaza-startupoffice(Tsukuba Start-up
Plaza Annex)

Tsukuba Startup Park
Tsukuba Startup Park was renovated by Tsukuba City in 2019 fromthe Industrial Promotion Center, and is a startup promotion baseequipped with co-working spaces, meeting rooms, exchange
spaces, seminar rooms, etc. They provide support
for a variety of entrepreneurial stages, with a focus on
Tsukuba's strength in technological startups.
https://tsukuba-stapa.jp/

8

T S UKU B A SCIENCE CITY

Encouraging senior citizens to go
out by improving the accessibilityof public transportation

Provision of secure and safe
last mile options for modesof transport

T SUKU B A S C IE NC E C IT Y

9

■ Tsukuba International Strategic Zone

Our aim is to promote industrialization and social implementation through the promotion of life innovation and green
innovation by utilizing the accumulation of science and technology in Tsukuba.

Social implementationof service robots
Implementation of sociallyassistive robots◆We will establish theworld's first safety
evaluation standards
for socially assistive
robots, and reflect
them on to international standards.
◆Our aim is toestablish an international ecosystem fromrobot development tosafety testing andcertification, and to
spread robots thathave been certified in
Tsukuba around theworld.

Development of innovative
pharmaceuticals,medical devices,medical
technologies,functional foods,etc.
Development and commercialization of a system forproducing useful substances that contribute to theimprovement of human health by utilizing plant functions◆Our aim is to develop and commercialize a systemfor producing useful substances （such as GABA
and miraculin） that contribute to the prevention ofhuman diseases and the promotion of human health,using easily cultivable plants such as tomatoes.

Development and application of next-generation cancer
treatment BNCT (Boron Neutron Capture Therapy)◆Our aim is to develop and apply a revolutionary
next-generation cancer treatment (BNCT) that is
expected to be effective in treating refractory andrecurrent cancers for which no treatment method
has yet been established, and that also provides
a high quality of life for patients.

Domestic production of nuclear medicine
diagnostic reagents◆We will establish a production technology formolybdenum-99, a raw material for nuclear
medicine diagnostic reagents (technetium
preparations), that does not use uranium as araw material, and realize the domestic production of nuclear medicine diagnostic reagents.

Tsukuba International Strategic Zone
10

T S UKU B A SCIENCE CITY

Solving problems and creating
industries in the environment
and energy fields
Practical application of algae
biomass energy◆We use a practical application ofalgae biomass, which is expected to
become an alternative fuel to petroleum.
◆We will establish an outdoor masscultivation technology that will aid in solving global energy
problems and contributing to the SDGs (Sustainable
Development Goals), while creating an algae industry.

04

Excellent Lifestyle Environment

An urban atmosphere rich in greenery
Due to planned urban maintenance, Tsukuba Science City is made up of a unique urban atmosphere.
There are 202 urban parks included in the cityʼs rich nature, all connected by 48 km of pedestrian decks (roads exclusive topedestrians).
Furthermore, the undergrounding of electrical lines in certain areas and main roads allow for beautiful cityscapes.
Additionally, in the north lies “Mount Tsukuba”, a mountain selected among Japanʼs top 100 famous mountains. Here youcan enjoy sceneries during all four seasons such as the blooming plums of spring, or landscapes surrounded by rice heads inautumn.

Development and application of astrategic urban mine recycling system◆We will develop recycling technology
to efficiently and economically recoveruseful metals such as rare metals.
◆Our aim is to secure a stable supplyof useful metal resources, develop
recycling-related industries, and realize a society basedon the concept of recycling by increasing awarenessamong citizens.

Pedestrian Deck

Front area of TX Tsukuba Station,
where electrical cables have been relocated undergroundCentral Park in front of the TX Tsukuba station

Beautiful autumn foliage in Doho Park

Mount Tsukuba in Autumn

Plum Trees of Mount Tsukuba

Promotion of open
innovation platform
Formation of global innovation platform of TIA(Tsukuba Innovation Arena)◆Six institutions (AIST, NIMS, University ofTsukuba, KEK, University of Tokyo, andTohoku University) will collaborate tocombine their comprehensive researchcapabilities for the acceleration of creationof innovation in Japan.

Development of innovative medicines and medical
technologies based on Tsukuba biomedical resources◆In collaboration with the Tsukuba Life
Science Suishin Kyogikai (Promotion
Council), we will utilize one of the world's
largest biomedical resources to develop
innovative seeds for drug discovery.

Application of innovative robotic medical devices andtechnologies and formation of a global center of excellence◆We will proceed with clinical trials of"Cybernics Treatment" using HAL (Hybrid
Assistive Limb) to expand the therapeutic area
(to be approved under the Pharmaceuticals andMedical Devices). In addition, we will establish
an international standard as the world's firstrobotic medical device, and aim to develop and apply combined
therapies with pharmaceuticals and regenerative medicine.

http://www.tsukuba-sogotokku.jp/

T SUKU B A S C IE NC E C IT Y

11

Cultural and Commercial Facilities
One can experience rich culture at any time through cultural facilities
such as the “Tsukuba Arus Culture Hall” which has a library, an art
gallery and a multi-purpose hall, the “Tsukuba Capio” which is used as
an exchange facility for city residents, and the “Nova Hall” whereconcerts by international musicians and other events are held.
There are also commercial facilities such as “tonarie TSUKUBASQUARE” in front of TX Tsukuba Station, “Iias Tsukuba” in front of the
Kenkyū-gakuen Station of the TX, and “Aeon Mall Tsukuba” in close
proximity to the Tsukuba Ushiku IC.

Future Course of City Center Urban Development−Tsukuba City Center Area Development Vision−−Tsukuba City Center Area Development Strategy−
In July 2018, Tsukuba City formulated the "Tsukuba City Center Area Development Vision," which outlines the ideal future
vision and center area development concept for the area around Tsukuba Station, the central district of Tsukuba Science City.
In May 2020, we formulated the "Tsukuba City Center Area Development Strategy (Tsukuba Station Area Basic Policy),"which sets forth the center area development policy and concrete measures to realize a sustainable city based on the vision.
At present, based on the strategy, we are strategically promoting swift and effective initiatives.

Nova Hall

Diverse Educational Environment

Tsukuba City Center Area Development Vision

With the educational objective of “Training an active workforce for society”, Tsukuba Science City is putting efforts towards
employing a unique curriculum in schools that includes Tsukuba style courses, education on the environment, international
understanding, ICT and scientific technology. Many foreign students are receiving an education based on the international
standard at the prefectureʼs first International Baccalaureate World School, the “Tsukuba International School”.
Furthermore, an excellent workforce is being trained at three universities, University of Tsukuba, National University
Corporation Tsukuba University of Technology, and Tsukuba Gakuin University.

A City with the Vision of the Worldʼs Future

As the socioeconomic situation changes drastically, the revitalization of the city center is a major challenge that many mature cities face. Let's boldly takeon this difficult challenge by combining the wisdom and power of diverse entities, and aim to become a city that can show the world the way to a solution.

A city filled with so much charm and surprises,
you will want to visit.
【Images】●A complete assortment of stores giving you the desire to
shop.
●Third place where you can spend a whole day (pedestriandecks, parks, plazas, libraries, etc.)●Placemaking with so much charm, it will make you wantto take a stroll●Cultural art events and sport events that will make youwant to go out●Plentiful dining experiences in front of the station■Number of Academic Facilities in Tsukuba City
Number26

Kindergarten

6

ECEC
Elementary Schools

29

Junior High Schools

13

Senior High Schools
Secondary Education
Schools (Junior High andSenior High)

6
1※Including Public and Private Schools

Junior high school98(percentage of prefectural total)（10.6％）(rank among the prefectureʼs（２）
44 municipalities)

Complete Medical Treatment

2,027

924

Source: FY2021-FY2022 School Data Survey

537.95250.83

Source: Regional Health Information System of the Japan Medical Association (http://jmap.jp/)

12

T S UKU B A SCIENCE CITY

Policy 1
Create a city thatgenerates vitality not
only in the Tsukuba
Station area but also in
Tsukuba City as a
whole

Policy 2
Create a city thatprovides cityscapesand experiences
unique to Tsukuba【Images】●Creative Spaces where diverse communities cometogether and where innovation occurs.
●Conventions where you can obtain intellectual stimulationand ideas.
●A lifestyle imbedded with scientific technology into
everyday life
●Startup base where research achievements are connected
to new businesses●Educational environment where science flourishes nearby●Markets where regional producers can meet with
consumers●Parks and roads flourishing with rich, green nature●A city built with pedestrians and bicyclists in mind
●Complete office environment where a variety ofworkstyles can be carried out.
● A healthy and peaceful community that has various
generational exchanges.

1-1-1 Strengthen information dissemination around Tsukuba Station
1-1-2 Implementation of events and other activities that utilize theattractions of the city's surrounding areas
1-1-3 Creation of a place to support people who take on challenges in
the community
1-1-4 Strengthen accessibility between the Tsukuba Station area andthe surrounding areas
Priority Strategy

Improve services for citizens by concentratingurban functions around Tsukuba Station

1-2-1 Concentration of urban functions around Tsukuba Station
1-2-2 Improve the city's overall brand power by creating an attractive
area around Tsukuba Station
reate unique experiences in Tsukuba

2-1-1 Create opportunities to experience nature in Tsukuba
2-1-2 Create events and opportunities for exchange led by localorganizations
2-1-3 Create opportunities where children are able to learn while playing
Priority Strategy

Create a unique cityscape in Tsukuba

2-2-1 Create a spacious urban environment with abundant greenery
2-2-2 Inducing a lively streetscape along the pedestrian deck
2-2-3 Promote the development of an environment where bicycles canbe used comfortably
2-2-4 Create an area where anyone can relax
Priority Strategy

Policy 3
Create a city with
science andtechnology to solve
urban development
issues as a model for
the world

Priority Strategy

City management to enhance the value of the city

Policy 4

University of Tsukuba HospitalStrengthen the support environment and exchange
functions for experiments and challenges

3-2-1 Create opportunities to promote interaction among diverse
personnel
3-2-2 Promoting collaboration among research institutions
3-2-3 Create a support window to promote societal implementation
Priority Strategy

reate a city thatgenerates new
business by triggering
innovation

Promote social implementation using science andtechnology

3-1-1 Create urban areas where cutting-edge science and technology
can be implemented in society
3-1-2 Promotion of experiments in the city
Priority Strategy

Create opportunities to generate new business

4-1-1 Create opportunities for exchange
4-1-2 Create opportunities to support business startups
Priority Strategy

Tsukuba City Center Area Development Strategy

8 Leading Projects

Leading projects are projects that the city will lead and prioritize over the next five years inorder to realize the Tsukuba City Center Area Development Strategy. The following eight"Leading Projects" have been defined by combining the perspectives of "which priority
strategies" and "where to work on them".

Attracting visitors around Tsukuba Station to thecity's surrounding areas

2-3-1 City branding and PR
2-3-2 Creating a system to supplement and regulate the functions of
the city（As of October 2022）

Number of doctors(per 100,000 people)

Tsukuba Station Area Basic Policy

Priority Strategy■Number of Medical Doctors in Tsukuba City
National
Average

Tsukuba City Center Area Development Strategy

Priority Strategy

There are many medical treatment facilities opened in Tsukuba City
where advanced medical treatments are conducted such as, theUniversity of Tsukuba Hospital and the Tsukuba Medical Center. Also,
the number of medical doctors in the city exceeds the national averageand the enrichment of the medical treatment structure is being
planned.

Tsukuba【Images】

Tsukuba City Prefectural Total
315
Elementary school(percentage of prefectural total) （15.5％）(rank among the prefectureʼs（１）
44 municipalities)

4

A city with sustainability rooted in its region■Number of foreign children enrolled in
Tsukubaʼs elementary or junior high schools

NumberCompulsory Education
Schools（Elementary andJunior High schools）

A city with scientific technology imbedded into
everyday life, allowing for the birth of innovation

Enhance policies to support new business

4-2-1 Corporate and management support
4-2-2 Create a city that is easy to live in for foreigners
4-2-3 Providing services that support diverse work styles

Tsukuba Center Building Renewal
The Tsukuba Center Building is a familiar symbol of
the Science City. In order to make it easier for the
citizens to use, we will consider renewing thebuilding so that it can become a new hub, a place
where many people can interact and a place that
supports the sustainable growth of Tsukuba.

Tsukuba Center Square Renewal
Tsukuba Center Square is a place where many
unique events are held. We will continue to study
the renewal of the square so that it can become aplace where events and performances are held anda place where everyone can feel at home and lively
on a daily basis.

Tsukuba Central Park Renewal
Adjacent to Tsukuba Station, the central park issurrounded by cultural facilities such as a library,art museum, and Tsukuba Expo Center. In the past,
we have implemented various initiatives such as
BBQ, canoeing, and a water playground. We willcontinue to study ways to make the park a place
where all generations regardless of age can enjoy
the unique experiences of Tsukuba.

Use of public space in cooperation
with the community
Public spaces such as pedestrian decks and parks, which
are characteristic of Tsukuba, will be utilized to create
liveliness and new attractions in the city. We will
promote support for the use of public spaces by citizens
to create events such as open cafes and marches, as well
as daily activities, and form public spaces that are fun to
walk around in for everyone.

Promotion of area management
through public-private partnerships
The public and private sectors will work together toestablish area management organizations that will engage
in community-based activities. These include initiatives
that are lacking in the city, such as the use of public
space, and the finding and attracting of agreeable tenants.
By doing so, we will increase the value of the entire city.

Improving hospitable functionality
around the entry way to Tsukuba
Tsukuba Center Square is a place where many
unique events are held. We will continue to study
the renewal of the square so that it can become aplace where events and performances are held anda place where everyone can feel at home and lively
on a daily basis.

Creating sites for innovation
The area around Tsukuba Station, including theIndustrial Promotion Center, Tsukuba Center
Building, and the area of the former dormitory site,
will become a hub for innovation that will generate
new value. By promoting the creation of places
where not only researchers and students, but also awide variety of people can stop by, we will build asystem that will generate innovation autonomously.

Promoting a smart city
In order to solve urban development issues, we will
promote the social implementation of new services
through the collaboration of innovativetechnologies and diverse data from universities,
research institutions, and companies. We will aim
to realize a convenient and comfortablecitizen-centered smart city.

T SUKU B A S C IE NC E C IT Y

13

Joso

Tsukuba Center for Institutes

Yokohama Plant Protection Station, Tsukuba Field

Forestry and Forest Products Research InstituteJapan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Research Council Secretariat
National Agriculture and Food Research Organization

Tsukuba Business-Academia Cooperation Support Center,Research Center for Medicinal Plant Resources

National Institute of Biomedical Innovation,

Tsukuba Primate Research Center

National Institute of Biomedical Innovation,

RIKEN Tsukuba Research Institute⓳ Meteorological Instrumentation Testing Center⓴ National Institute for Environmental Studies⓱ Meteorological Research Institute⓲ Aerological Observatory⓯ JAXA⓰ National Institute for Advanced Industrial Science and Technology⓭ Building Research Institute⓮ National Institute for Materials Science⓫ National Institute for Land and Infrastructure Management⓬ Public Works Research Institute

Warp Station Edo

Industrial Estate
Research/Educational Institution
Park
Mountainous Terrain
TX Vicinity Developed Region

Expressway
National Highway
Major Road
Joban Express
Tsukuba Express

Tsukuba Research
Park Hanare
Yatabe IC

Tsukuba-mirai

Miraidaira Station

Kayamaru
RegionMidorino Station
Tsukuba Midorino
Industrial Park❾ National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention
Miraidaira❿ Geospatial Information Authority of Japan❼ National Institute for School Teachers and Staff Development❽ NTT Access Network Service Systems Laboratories❺ High Energy Accelerator Research Organization❻ National Museum of Nature and Science, Tsukuba Region❸ University of Tsukuba❹ Tsukuba University of Technology❶ National Archives of Japan, Tsukuba Branch❷ Japan International Cooperation Agency Tsukuba Center❻TX Tsukuba Station

Tsukuba Smart IC
Now open

Tsukuba WesternIndustrial Park

Matsumi Park

Doho Park

n
ba
Jo

Ex

p

Ueno

UshikuStationUshikuHitachino-Ushiku
StationTsukuba-Ushiku IC

Tsukuba JCT

Akatsuka Park

Tsuchiura
StationThe country’s second-biggest freshwater lake.
Every year in summer the old-fashioned sailboats
are on display for tourists,
giving the lake a nostalgic aspect.

【Local Tourist Sites】〈Kasumigaura〉⓯JAXA

Arakawaoki Station❻TX Tsukuba Station

ay
w
ss
re

Tsuchiura

Tsuchiura-Kita IC❹Hirasawa Kanga Relics❶Mt. Tsukuba

Sakura-Tsuchiura IC

Tsukuba Park Street（Pedestrian Deck）

Tsukuba International
Congress Center

Central Park
Tsukuba Station
Nova Hall

Tsukuba Chuo IC
ShimanaBampaku-Kinenkoen Station
Fukudatsubo
RegionKamikawarazakiNakanishi Region

Kenkyu-Gakuen Station

Katsuragi Region

IshiokaNakane-Kondadai Region

Tsukuba Technopark Sakura

Higashi-Odori❶Mt. Tsukuba

University ofTsukuba Hospital

Sakuragawa

Tokodai Research Park

Tsukuba Technopark Oho

Tsukuba Northern
Industrial Park

Tsukuba Technopark Toyosato

A park built on the site of the International Exposition in Tsukuba (Expo’85).
The faces of 4 scientists can be seen in the 10m high Science Gate.

❺Science Gate (Kagaku Bampaku Kinenkoen)

The relics of the Tsukuba-no-koori city office fromthe Nara/Heian period, over 1000 years old.
Many large high-floored warehouses can be found here,
something not usually seen at most historical sites.

❹Hirasawa Kanga Relics

Hojo flourished as the entrance to Mt.Tsukuba during
the Edo period.
The historic shops and earthen cellars of the old cityscapestill remain.

❸Hojo Region

A cycling road with a total length of about 180 km, designated byjapan as the "National Cycle Route" that represents Japan and canbe proud of to the world. It is flat and easy to go on a bicycle, andfeatures rich nature and scenery such as the area around
Mt.Tsukuba and Kasumigaura.

❷Tsukuba-Kasumigaura Ring-Ring Road

Selected as both one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful
mountains and Japan’s 100 highest quality geological sites.
Praised as ‘Fuji in the west, Tsukuba in the east’,
it was often the subject of poems such as in the Manyoshu or
Ogura Hyakkuninisshu.

❶Mt. Tsukuba

Map Legend❺Science Gate (Kagaku Bampaku Kinenkoen)❸Hojo Region

Shimotsuma

ChikuseiKami-Oshima Industrial Parks

❷Tsukuba-Kasumigaura Ring-Ring RoadpyToshijiku Highway

Ex
wa

A

res
Exp
Tsu

K
O
s
res

Shin
way
toshichuodori High

en

kub
a

ad

ra

aur
g ro

ba

kub
iga
-rin

kih
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Tsu
um
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ng
a ri

Sept.

The Cabinet decides to consider the mass transfer of government offices that do not need to
be located within Tokyo city proper to operate, in order to prevent overcrowding

1962

July.

Science and Technology Conference report on the necessity of mass transfer of national
experimental research institutions

1963

Sept.

The Cabinet agrees to the construction of a science city in the Tsukuba region, and to allowing
the Japan Housing Corporation to buy and organize the land

1964

Dec.

The Cabinet decides on the establishment and composition of the Science City Construction
Promotion Headquarters (hereafter Promotion Headquarters), whose head is also the head of theMetropolitan Amenity Committee, inside the prime minister’s office

1966

Dec.

Land acquisition begins (completed in Oct., 1973)

Sept.

The Cabinet agrees on the science city basic construction policy and the 36 institutions selected to be transferred

Oct.

Work begins on the construction of an experiments center for the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster
Prevention, the first institutional transfer

1969

June.
Nov.

The Cabinet decides to conduct the construction of the institutions projected to move to Tsukuba over a period of 10 years,
broken up into two 5 year periods
Groundbreaking ceremony for the Tsukuba Science City Development Project

1970

May.
June.

Establishment and announcement of the Tsukuba Science City Construction Law
Determination of expansion of Joban Expressway (55km from Misato, Saitama, to Chiyoda, Ibaraki)）

1971

Feb.

The Promotion Headquarters announces the Tsukuba Science City Construction Plan Frameworkand the Tsukuba Science City Public Event Plan Overview

Jan.
Mar.
May.

The first residents enter the civil servant housing built in the Science Zone (Hanamuro)
The National Institute of Materials Science is the first institution to complete its transfer
The Cabinet decides on 42 research and educational institutions to transfer

1973

Apr.

The Promotion Headquarters revises the Tsukuba Science City Construction Plan Frameworkand the Tsukuba Science City Public Event Plan Overview, and announces the Tsukuba Science
City Transfer Institutions Transfer Plan Overview, adding one institution to the research andeducational institutions being transferred/built for a total of 43
Opening of the University of Tsukuba, Oct.1973
The Tsukuba New City Development Corporation is formed
The University of Tsukuba opens
Dr. Leo Ezaki (current Chairman of the Science and Technology Promotion Foundation of Ibaraki) wins the Nobel Prize for Physics

June.

The first preschool, elementary school, and junior high school are opened in the Science Zone (Takezono-Higashi
Preschool, Takezono-Higashi Elementary School, Takezono-Higashi Junior High)
MLIT proposes that the MLIT Major City Area Amenity Office take charge of the overall organization of Science City, and creates
the Tsukuba Science City Construction Promotion Office

1975

Mar.
May.

The Cabinet decides the period for the near completion of all institutional transfer will now be from 1975 to 1979
The Promotion Headquarters establishes the Tsukuba Science City Municipality Financial Responsibility Special Provisions Overview

1976

May.

Completion ceremony for Matsumi Park, the Tsukuba New City Memorial Hall (Doho Park), Oshimizu Park, and the green walkways is held

1977

Feb.

The Tsukuba Science City Research Exchange Promotion Association is formed from universities and industrial/academic/
governmental experimental research institutions
The Tsukuba Science City Association is formed from Japan Housing Corporation, Ibaraki Prefecture, 6 local municipalities,
andnational experimental research and educational institutions

Aug.

1978

Feb.

The Shipbuilding Research Center of Japan opens, becoming the first private research facility in the Science Zone
Opening of the Tsukuba Center for Institutes

1979

Oct.

The University of Library and Information Science opens (current University of Tsukuba)

1980

Mar.
Sept.

The transfer of all 43 institutions is completed (Science City is nearly complete)
The Prime Minister approves the Science City Construction Plan (publicized 9/25)
The Tsukuba Science City Research Exchange Promotion Association is dissolved and reformed into the Tsukuba Network
2 more research and educational institutions are selected to be transferred/built, for a total of 45

Apr.
Aug.
Oct.

The International Exposition (Expo’85) is approved
Ibaraki Prefecture determines the Surrounding Region Development Plan
The Japan Housing Corporation and Residential Land Development Corporation merge to form the Housing and City
Development Corporation

July.
Sept.

Tokodai Research Park is completed
1 more research and educational institution is selected to be transferred/built, for a total of 46

1983

June.
July.

Construction is completed on the Tsukuba Center Building
Ibaraki Prefecture sets up the Tsukuba Information Center (closed in Dec., 2008) within the Tsukuba Center Building

1985

Jan.

The Joban Expressway directly connects to Tokyo
The New Tsukuba Colloquium is formed as the MLIT Director’s personal advisory committee
The Tsukuba Expo Center is completed
The Creo Shopping Center opens
The Tsukuba Center transportation plaza is built
Expo ’85 opens (held from 3/17 ~ 9/16, 20,330,000 attendees)
The Transportation Policy Commission releases its report on the construction of new Joban Line routes

1981

1982

Mar.

1987

Apr.
June.
Oct.
Nov.

Highway bus route opens between Tokyo and Tsukuba Center
Tsuchiura and Tsukuba Science City are selected as a International Tourism Model Region
1 more research and educational institution is selected to be transferred/built, for a total of 47
Tsukuba City is formed from the merging of Oho, Toyosato, Sakura-mura, and Yatabe

1988

Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
June.
Aug.
Sept.

Tsukuba City and Tsukuba-machi merge
The Tsukuba Center, Inc. is established
The Joban Expressway between Misato and Iwaki Chuo is fully opened
The Tsukuba Urban Transportation Center is established
The Tsukuba Western Parking Lot is opened
Celebration of the 25th anniversary of the construction of Tsukuba Science City

Apr.

The National Institutional Transfer Committee decides on the transfer of the Institute for Materials Science
The Ibaraki Prefectural Tsukuba School of Nursing opens
MLIT decides on the New Tsukuba Plan
Ibaraki Prefecture opens the Tsukuba Office (closed Mar., 2009) inside the Tsukuba Information Center

1989

May.
July.

1990

Apr.
June.

1991

Mar.
July.
Oct.

The Tsukuba Mitsui Building opens
Ibaraki Prefecture decides on the Greater Tsukuba Plan
The Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin Tsukuba Junior College opens (current Tsukuba Gakuin University)）
Tsukuba Junior College of Technology opens (current Tsukuba University of Technology)
The Tsukuba Cultural Center ARS opens
The Metropolitan Inter-city Railway Company is formed
The Tsukuba Cultural Foundation is formed）
The Tsukuba heliport opens
The national government approves the fundamental plan for new routes on the Joban LineJan.

Due to institutional reforms, the number of national research and educational institutions reducesfrom 47 to 46
Ibaraki Prefecture decides on the Tsuchiura/Tsukuba/Ushiku Central Administration Cities Plan
Memorial symposium held for the 30th anniversary of Tsukuba Science City’s construction
The new MOG commercial building is completed

1994

Apr.

1995

Nov. The Fundamental Legislation on Science and Technology is determined and announced

1996

Apr.

The Total Health Evaluation Center Tsukuba is opened within the Tsukuba Medical Center
The Tsukuba South 1 Parking Lot opens
May. The University of Tsukuba opens the Center for Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA)
July. A direct bus link between Tsukuba and Narita Airport begins
The three parties (Ibaraki Prefecture, Tsukuba, and the landowners) agree on the development
around the new Joban routes
Oct. Groundbreaking ceremony for the new Joban routes (in front of Akihabara Station)）

July.

1972

1974

1993

Groundbreaking ceremony, Nov.1969

1967

Apr.

Jan. The license for the new Joban Line routes is given to the Metropolitan Inter-city Railway Company by MLIT
May. The Tsukuba International Cargo Terminal is establishedNov. Tsukuba’s population reaches 150,000
Feb.
Oct.

1968

Sept.
Oct.
Dec.

1992

The Tokyo Kasei-Gakuin Tsukuba Women’s University opens (current Tsukuba Gakuin University)
Due to institutional reforms, the number of national research and educational institutions reducesfrom 46 to 45
The Tsukuba Capio Community Center opens

1997

Sept. The Tsuchiura/Tsukuba Convention Bureau is established (current Tsukuba Tourism

1998

Mar.
Apr.

Opening of Tsukuba Capio, Jul.1996

and Convention Association)Oct.

The Joban Line Hitachino-Ushiku Station opens
The Science City Construction Plan (MLIT) and Surrounding Region Development Plan (Ibaraki)
are revised
1 more research and educational institution is selected to be transferred/built, for a total of 46）

1999

June. The Tsukuba International Congress Center (Epochal Tsukuba) opens
July. Tsuchiura and Tsukuba are selected as International Conference and Tourism cities
Oct. Due to institutional reforms, the Housing and City Development Corporation becomes

2000

Dec. Dr. Hideki Shirakawa (current Professor Emeritus of the University of Tsukuba) wins

2001

Feb.
Apr.

The new Joban route is named the Tsukuba Express
Due to institutional reforms resulting from the creation of the Independent Administrative Institution,
the number of national research and educational institutions reduces from 45 to 34

2002

Apr.
Oct.

Tsukuba’s Nori-nori social welfare loop bus is introduced
The University of Library and Information Sciences merges with the University of Tsukuba(the number of national research and educational institutions reduces from 34 to 33)
Kukizaki-machi merges with Tsukuba City

the City Foundation Development Corporation
the Nobel Prize for Chemistry

Nov.
2003

Opening of the Tsukuba International
Congress Center, Jun.1999

Apr. The Tsukuba Start-up Plaza business development facility is establishedSept. The Tsukuba Community Tsuku-tsuku bus is introduced
Oct.

Tsukuba City and the University of Tsukuba conclude a collaboration agreement
5 institutes, including The National Space Development Association of Japan and RIKEN, become Independent Administrative Institutions

2004

Apr.

2005

Mar. The Q’t Shopping Center opens
Aug. The Tsukuba Express begins operatingDec. Tsukuba’s population reaches 200,000

2006

Apr.

The University of Tsukuba and Tsukuba Junior College of Technology (current Tsukuba University of Technology)
become national universities, and the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization becomes a joint university institution
June. The Tsukuba Network and the Tsukuba Science City Association merge to become the new Tsukuba Network
July. The City Foundation Development Corporation merges with the Regional Promotion Development Corporation’s Regional City
Development
Department and becomes the Urban Renaissance Agency Tsukuba New City Development, Tsukuba Energy Service, and Southernbaraki New City Development merge to become the Tsukuba Urban Development Co.

Oct.

Tsukuba’s new community bus, the Tsukubus, begins operating (Nori-nori and Tsuku-tsuku end operations)Due to institutional reforms, the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization is formed andthe number of national research and educational institutions reduces from 33 to 31
The Science and Technology Promotion Organization establishes the JST Innovation Satellite Ibaraki

2007

Feb.
Apr.

First Tsukuba license plates
Tsukuba becomes a Special City

2008

June. The Tsukuba Passport Office opens
Dec. Dr. Makoto Kobayashi (current Professor Emeritus at the High Energy Accelerator Research

TX begins operations, Aug.2005

Organization) wins the Nobel Prize for Physics

2009

June. Joint industrial/academic/government announcement of the Promotion of Tsukuba as a Nanotechnology Base2010

Jan. Creation of the Grand Design for a New Tsukuba
May. Opening of the new Tsukuba City Hall
Dec. Opening of the Lifestyle Support Robot Safety Verification Center

2011

Mar.

Expo’85, Mar.-Sept.1985

Opening of the Tsukuba Mitsui Building, Apr.1990

Dec.

With the addition of the Yokohama Plant Protection Station Tsukuba Field, the number of national research and educational
institutions increases to 32
Approval of the Tsukuba Mobility Robot Special Experimental Zone
Designation of the Tsukuba Special International Strategic Zone

2013

Sept. 50th year since the Cabinet approval of the construction of Tsukuba Science City
Nov. Celebration of the 50th anniversary of the construction of Tsukuba Science City

2016

Apr.

National Center for Seeds and Seeding, National Institute of Agribiological Sciences, and National Institutefor Agro-Environmental Services merges with the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization2013 Tsukuba Science City(the number of national research and educational institutions reduces from 32 to 29)
50th Anniversary Logo
May. G7 Science ＆ Technology Ministers’ Meeting in Tsukuba,Ibaraki was held in the International Congress Center.

2018

Oct.

2019

Mar. Mr. ISOZAKI Arata (designer of the Tsukuba Center Building) received the Pritzker Architecture Prize.
June. The G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy in Tsukuba, Ibaraki was held at the Tsukuba International Congress Center
Oct. Opening of the renovated Tsukuba Startup Park (Tsukuba industries revitalization center)
Dec. The “Tsukuba Start-up Office by Ibaraki Pref.(Tsukuba Start-up Plaza Annex)” opened.

2020

Feb. The Tsukuba Startup Ecosystem Consortium is establishedJuly. The Startup Ecosystem Tokyo Consortium in which Tsukuba City and lbaraki Prefecture take pa吋in , was selected as a base

2021

May. Reopening of "Tonarie Tsukuba Square” shopping center

2022

Apr. Designation as a ‘Super City National Strategic Special Zone’
May. Renewal of the Tsukuba Centre Building. As part of this, a base ‘co-en’ was opened to support diverse working styles and activities.

In regards to the Tsukuba International Congress Center, the 17th World Lake Conference (Lake Kasumigaura, Ibaraki, Japan,2018) was held.

city for a global startup ecosystem

１９６１↓２０２２

Tsukuba Science City Chronology

1961