Japan Showcases Its Technological Prowess with Fully Domestically Produced Quantum Computer

Quantum computers, capable of performing calculations on a scale far beyond that of conventional computers, are expected to revolutionize society. Japan's technological expertise in this cutting-edge field is attracting significant attention. The Japanese government has designated 2025 as the launch year of quantum industrialization to promote its practical application.

In July, a group led by The University of Osaka—comprising SMEs, startups, and research institutes—successfully launched the operation of a fully domestically developed superconducting quantum computer. All of its key components, including both hardware and software, were designed and built in Japan. In August, a hands-on exhibit at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan allowed visitors to remotely operate the domestically produced quantum computer via tablets at the venue, drawing a large number of attendees from both Japan and overseas.

Professor Makoto Negoro of the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology, The University of Osaka remarked, "We have demonstrated that Japan can create a fully domestically produced quantum computer with high performance. Moving forward we aim to collaborate with global partners to position Japan at the forefront of this field worldwide."

Quantum computers utilize laws of quantum mechanics that govern the microscopic world to perform calculations. The superconducting quantum computer developed by the group adopts a design in which the chips are cooled to near absolute zero (-273.15°C), where electrical resistance disappears. In addition to domestically-produced chips, controllers, and software, the group also succeeded in manufacturing the device that continuously creates the ultralow-temperature environment—the dilution refrigerator—within Japan for the first time.

The dilution refrigerator was developed by ULVAC CRYOGENICS INC., a manufacturer of cryogenic equipment and vacuum pumps. Dr. Masamichi Saitoh, Manager of Dilution Refrigerator Part, Engineering Team, commented, "Cooling technology is a critical aspect for controlling quantum computers, and we're proud to have contributed to the development. As we move closer to practical application, we'll continue to work as a key player in the field, striving to expand the market for these essential components."

As the practical application of quantum computers advances, their use is expected to extend to a wide range of fields, including material development, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence (AI). Professor Negoro expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Applications could include unravelling the mechanisms of photosynthesis and creating artificial photosynthesis. Our goal is to solve mysteries in life sciences through quantum computers."

Quantum computer development is fiercely competitive on a global scale. Professor Negoro highlighted Japan's strengths, including its advanced technological capabilities, its robust collaboration between government, industry, and academia—exemplified by initiatives such as the Moonshot Research and Development Program—and its collaborative development approach, where various companies and institutions contribute their specialized expertise. Japan, with its expertise, data, and technologies across various industrial layers, offers a testbed for overseas companies to evaluate and compare their technologies.

"Our journey toward practical and commercial applications of quantum computers has only just begun. We aim to strengthen partnerships, on a technological level, with companies—both in Japan and internationally—that share our vision," Professor Negoro concluded.