On July 7, 2023, a practical experiment took place in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, aimed at improving the mobility of visually impaired individuals through new technology. This initiative, known as the "Waku Waku Project", is organized by the Toyota Mobility Foundation and involves cooperation from various companies, focusing on the idea that advancements in technology can provide hope and enhance independence for the visually impaired. Participants, comprising six visually impaired individuals, tried out several tools developed by the partnering companies, which included smartphone applications and robotic devices designed to assist in navigation and orientation.

Among the tools tested were "IcoSupport", which allows operators to provide necessary information to users through their smartphones, and "Ashirase", a device affixed to shoes that communicates positioning and directional guidance through audio and vibrations. The participants navigated through the Nihonbashi Muromachi Mitsui Tower, descended into a basement corridor for shopping, and walked back to ground level, where they shared insights about the strengths and weaknesses of each tool. This collaborative effort not only aimed to enhance mobility for the visually impaired but also fostered idea-sharing among participants, industry representatives, and urban university students involved in the experiment.

In sharing their experiences, participants emphasized the significance of creating supportive networks and the potential for new discoveries in technology to improve lives. The synergy between visually impaired individuals and technological innovations highlights the broader implications of inclusivity in urban planning and the responsibility of society to ensure accessibility. This initiative serves as a crucial step toward greater independence and enjoyment of urban environments for people with visual impairments.