Saitama City and Kayo University host Minecraft workshops for kids

Saitama City announced the "SAITAMA Minecraft Award 2026," inviting local elementary, middle and high school students to design future versions of the city using a 3D urban model of the Omiya, Saitama New Central, Urawa and Iwatsuki areas. The competition runs from 6 July to 13 December 2026, with separate categories for elementary and secondary students. Entries are judged on theme relevance, problem‑solving, urban appeal, originality and completeness, and the final award ceremony is scheduled for 21 February 2027. In addition, the city will hold a free "Minecraft 3D Experience" on 5 September at Aeon Mall Yono and a "Minecraft Town‑Planning Workshop" on 26 September at With You Saitama, both open to the public.

Kayo University in Tokyo will hold a free workshop on 24 August for elementary students and their parents, using the Education Edition of Minecraft to explore town‑planning concepts and develop 21st‑century skills such as creativity, problem‑solving and ICT literacy. The event, part of a partnership with Kodaira City, runs from 13:00 to 16:00, with 30 groups selected by lottery. It aims to foster interest in local community issues through hands‑on digital learning.