Brief notes from Keiji Yano's presentation (Feb 10)

Keiji Yano '(Ritsumeikan University) The evolution of Virtual Kyoto '

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Kyoto – ancient capital of Japan.

Virtual Kyoto – Based on two 5-year projects; first began in 2002, second ongoing.

Five research groups covered different topics, encouraging younger researchers (PhD students) to make use of technology and databases.

Data archives on Kyoto collected from places such as museums –300,000 datasets.

Divided into areas such as Japanese culture and heritage - data archive of traditional dance, for example, created using a motion capture system.

Purpose of project – to develop a historical online environment, via which you can virtually travel over time and space in Japanese history in the city of Kyoto.

Created a virtual environment; using data maps, images etc –a 3D model (Virtual Kyoto) – enables a visualisation of landscape change across time.

GIS database used – made use of aerial photographs of the past (as old as 1928) to create 3D models of Kyoto at this time. Earlier than this, used paper maps on which to base the 3D model. Even further back, picture maps and paintings, and archaeological data were used.

Yano also referred to the collaboration with Google, and the use of mobile systems on which the 3D models can be displayed. Information can be sent from users so that the database of culture and heritage can be updated. The database can also be routinely updated if changes are made to the area.

Photographs etc can be tagged onto the map used by Google Earth.