Japan has officially entered the quantum computing race with the unveiling of its first domestically developed quantum computer, marking a significant step towards technological self-reliance and global competitiveness. The system, housed at Osaka University's Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (QIQB), went live on July 28, 2025, and is ready to handle computational workloads from academic, industrial, and governmental users.

This achievement signifies Japan's technological prowess in quantum computing, demonstrating the nation's capacity to design, manufacture, and integrate a complete quantum system. Unlike previous quantum systems deployed in Japan, which relied on imported hardware and control electronics, this platform is the result of a fully integrated national effort. All critical components, from the quantum processing unit (QPU) to the supporting cryogenic infrastructure, have been designed, manufactured, and tested within the country.

Key Components and Technologies

At the heart of the system is a superconducting qubit processor developed by the RIKEN research institute. Superconducting qubits are fabricated from metals that, when cooled to temperatures close to absolute zero (-273.15 °C), exhibit zero electrical resistance. This superconducting property allows the storage and manipulation of quantum information with minimal energy loss, a prerequisite for high-fidelity quantum operations. The processor operates within a dilution refrigerator, which achieves the ultra-low operating temperatures required for quantum coherence.

The "chandelier"-style housing contains multiple subsystems, including: * Chip packaging manufactured by Seiken Corporation * Magnetic shielding to suppress external interference * Infrared and bandpass filters for signal conditioning * Low-noise amplification stages to maintain qubit readout integrity * Precision cryogenic cabling for stable quantum operations

Furthermore, the entire software ecosystem, from front-end to back-end, is open-source and developed in Japan, leveraging the Open Quantum Toolchain for OPerators & USers (OQTOPUS). OQTOPUS includes the core engine and cloud module, as well as graphical user interface (GUI) elements, and is designed to be built on top of a QPU and quantum control hardware.

Implications for Scientific and Industrial Advancement

Quantum computers hold immense potential for addressing global challenges, from developing new materials and medicines to optimizing complex systems and mitigating environmental impact. They also promise to revolutionize everyday life through advancements in fields like machine learning. Japan's new quantum computer is expected to accelerate research and development in various fields, including:

• Drug discovery: Quantum computers can be used to simulate molecular interactions and identify potential drug candidates.
• Materials science: They can aid in the design of new materials with specific properties.
• Cryptography: Quantum computers can break existing encryption algorithms, but also enable the development of new, quantum-resistant cryptographic methods.
• Optimization: They can solve complex optimization problems in areas such as logistics, finance, and traffic management.

Japan's Quantum Strategy and Global Positioning

The development of this domestic quantum computer is a key component of Japan's Quantum Technology Innovation Strategy, which aims to establish the country as a global leader in quantum technology. The Japanese government considers quantum computing a core element of its growth strategy and has invested heavily in research and development in this field.

With the launch of this fully homegrown quantum system, Japan joins a select group of nations — including the United States and China — capable of building operational superconducting qubit platforms without reliance on foreign technology. This positions Japan as a serious contender in the global quantum race.

Public Engagement and Future Prospects

The new quantum computer was showcased at Expo 2025 in Osaka from August 14 to 20, 2025. Visitors could connect to the system via a secure cloud interface, submit basic quantum algorithms, and view the results in real-time. The exhibition also featured interactive modules illustrating quantum entanglement, superposition, and other core principles of quantum mechanics.

Fujitsu aims to launch a 1,000-qubit computer in 2026. Furthermore, Fujitsu is developing a superconducting quantum computer capable of exceeding 10,000 physical qubits, aiming to complete construction by fiscal year 2030. These advancements signify Japan's commitment to pushing the boundaries of quantum computing and solidifying its position as a global leader in this transformative technology.