Japan has launched its first floating city prototype off the coast of Okinawa, as part of an ambitious experiment to combat rising sea levels and urban overcrowding. Designed by Tokyo-based Oceanix Corp, the project—named “Aqua Haven”—includes modular living units, solar-powered facilities, and desalination systems.
The floating city, currently housing 500 residents in trial mode, is built to withstand typhoons and minor tsunamis. The Japanese government, in collaboration with the UN-Habitat program, sees this as a model for climate-resilient urban development.
Countries vulnerable to flooding like Bangladesh, the Maldives, and coastal India have shown keen interest in adopting similar models. Experts from Dhaka University and Kathmandu’s urban research wing are reportedly reviewing Japan’s blueprint for replication in South Asian deltas.
