Collect, learn, and play music like a game. The interactive music-themed event "DigiWave POP UP 2025" is currently underway at 404 Not Found in Shibuya.
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/991/G999111/20251006027/
Editorial Department: Junpoco | 2025/10/06 08:05 (UTC)
The immersive exhibition “DigiWave POP UP 2025,” where music and digital art intersect, is currently on display at the fourth floor of 404 Not Found, located within Shibuya Sakura Stage SHIBUYA SIDE in Tokyo.
The event runs from October 4 to 16, 2025. Admission fees are 1,000 JPY for general visitors and 500 JPY for students (with valid ID) or CLAN members (for students and creatives).
“DigiWave” is a digital art brand originating from Taiwan, supported by the Ministry of Digital Development of Taiwan. Centered on exploring the relationship between digital technology and humanity, it offers immersive experiences open to everyone. Since its founding in 2018, DigiWave has attracted millions of visitors both domestically and internationally, becoming widely recognized as one of Taiwan’s leading digital art events.
Official DigiWave Website
This marks the first time “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is coming to Japan, made possible through collaboration between Kyoto-based indie creative studio Skeleton Crew Studio and Taiwan’s Creative Content Agency (TIC). Positioned as a pioneering step in promoting Asian-origin content on international stages—including Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025—this event aims to expand global awareness of innovative digital art from Asia.
The exhibition design is handled by the Taiwanese creative team “ULTRACOMBOS,” known for their work at major international events such as the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.
The exhibition features panels tracing the evolution of music consumption and formats—from Walkmans (cassette tapes) to streaming services—alongside nostalgic player devices on display. Visitors can physically experience how listening habits have changed over time.
Electronic instruments such as synthesizers, rhythm machines, and samplers are also showcased in real-time. These displays help attendees understand each instrument’s role in music production, while revealing the historical context behind evolving sound design.
Additionally, hands-on learning zones allow visitors to experiment with electronic instruments firsthand. Interactive stations let guests manipulate bass machines and mixers, creating sounds that synchronize with visuals projected across an entire wall—delivering a deeply immersive musical experience where sound and image are perfectly aligned.
Thumbnail image No.008 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya Thumbnail image No.009 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya
Another key feature of this event is the use of a smartphone browser app for “sound collection” and interactive performance experiences. Throughout the venue, staff have placed musical staff symbols with note names (Do, Re, Mi). By entering these notes into the app, visitors unlock challenges. Successfully completing them rewards users with sound fragments they can then play back using their smartphones as virtual pads.
Thumbnail image No.012 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya Thumbnail image No.013 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya
These challenges not only provide enjoyment through creating and performing music, but also encourage visitors to notice the subtle yet meaningful sounds embedded in daily life. Fun quizzes challenge participants to identify sirens or warning tones heard on city streets, while other activities let guests experience smartphone accessibility features—offering a playful way to rediscover how sound functions in everyday environments. This aspect is one of the event’s major highlights.
Thumbnail image No.018 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya Thumbnail image No.017 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya
For visitors who love games, be sure to try the rhythm game-style challenge accessible via smartphone app. The content is impressively polished and challenging—so much so that it feels more like a professional arcade experience than an event-based activity (the author, despite being bad at rhythm games, managed to clear it after several attempts…). Those confident in their skills should definitely give it a shot.
The browser app can be bookmarked for later use, allowing visitors to continue challenges and performances from home.
Thumbnail image No.014 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya Thumbnail image No.015 / Collect, learn, and play music with a game-like experience. The immersive musical-themed event “DigiWave POP UP 2025” is currently running at 404 Not Found in Shibuya
While there are many games involving collecting and playing sounds, the unique appeal of this event lies in its ability to make these experiences personally meaningful.
Although immersive events have become increasingly common today, it’s rare to find one centered on music that integrates gameplay so thoroughly. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or someone interested in gaming and digital culture, there’s something here for everyone.