Japanese firms Hobetsu and Shimizu launch 'block float technology' to create floating land on water

Hobetsu Corporation and Shimizu Corporation have announced a joint demonstration project using 'block float technology', an innovative system that enables rapid and cost-effective construction of floating land on water. The technology, developed by Shimizu Corporation, comprises lightweight modular blocks weighing approximately 30 kilograms each that can be assembled and disassembled by human labor without requiring heavy construction machinery, making it suitable for environmentally sensitive areas. Hobetsu, which specializes in experience design and event promotion, will drive the commercialization of the technology by planning and executing events, promotions, and installations using the floating structures.

The technology addresses Japan's paradox of abundant water resources—including oceans, rivers, and lakes—combined with a severe shortage of accessible land. Traditional floating construction has been prohibitively expensive and time-consuming; however, the block float system dramatically reduces these barriers. In a previous demonstration at Lake Hamana in 2023, a 100-square-meter floating platform was constructed in approximately four hours. This efficiency opens opportunities for year-round resource utilization, including during winter months and low-season periods when water-based facilities typically remain underutilized.

The partnership envisions diverse applications spanning entertainment, commercial, and community development. Proposed uses include water-based pop-up stores for luxury brands, art installations for international visitors, floating stages for outdoor music festivals and sporting events, and collaborative municipal projects to create new public gathering spaces and landmarks. Beyond temporary event installations, the companies aim to develop permanent business models such as winter cafés and glamping facilities at resort pools and hotel waterfronts.

Shimizu Corporation, a major Japanese construction firm founded in 1804, views this initiative as foundational research toward realizing its long-term vision of floating-structure architecture and eventually the 'marine future city concept' (GREEN FLOAT), announced in 2008. The company plans to continue developing scalable technologies responsive to market demands. Hobetsu, established in 1970 and focused on experiential marketing, will leverage its expertise in spatial design and event production to validate the technology's practical applications across commercial and cultural sectors.

The joint demonstration represents a strategic effort to transform underutilized water domains into valuable economic and social spaces, enhancing regional tourism and community value while advancing next-generation infrastructure development in Japan.