The University of Osaka has announced the launch of Japan’s first superconducting quantum computer, designed and built entirely with domestic components and software. The system, which went live on 28 July at the university’s Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (QIQB), represents a milestone in Japan’s ability to achieve complete technological self-reliance in quantum computing system design, manufacturing, and integration.

Photo of quantum computer appearing in article on AI + Quantum Tech Monthly entitled University of Osaka Debuts Fully Domestic Quantum Computer.

Japan’s fully domestic superconducting quantum computer, developed at the University of Osaka with homegrown hardware and open-source software. (Photo courtesy of QIQB, The University of Osaka)

QIQB led the project in collaboration with RIKEN and Japanese companies including ULVAC, Inc., ULVAC CRYOGENICS INC., e-trees.Japan, Inc., QuEL, Inc., QunaSys Inc., Systems Engineering Consultants Co., LTD., TIS Inc., and Fujitsu Limited. Imported components such as the dilution refrigerator and pulse tube refrigerator were replaced with domestically manufactured equivalents. The entire software stack, from front-end to back-end, was developed in Japan as open-source, using the Open Quantum Toolchain for OPerators & USers (OQTOPUS).

From August 14-20, 2025, the University of Osaka will present a public exhibition, entangle moment – [quantum, ocean, universe] x art, showcasing components of the domestically produced quantum computer. Attendees will be able to connect to the system remotely via cloud access to run basic quantum programs. The exhibit, designed for accessibility to both technical and non-technical audiences, will feature interactive displays on quantum entanglement and other phenomena. In collaboration with Professor Akihiro Kubota of Tama Art University, the exhibition will also present quantum computer-generated art, blending scientific innovation with artistic interpretation.

The successful development of a fully domestic quantum system demonstrates Japan’s mastery of the hardware, software, and integration technologies required for advanced computing. Potential applications include accelerating materials and drug discovery, optimizing large-scale systems, mitigating environmental impacts, and enabling new capabilities in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

About The University of Osaka

Founded in 1931 as one of Japan’s seven imperial universities, the University of Osaka has established itself as a world-class research institution at the forefront of scientific and technological innovation. With a comprehensive academic scope spanning the natural sciences, engineering, medical sciences, and the humanities, the university has a long-standing commitment to advancing knowledge that delivers measurable benefits to society.

In the field of quantum computing, the University of Osaka has emerged as a leader in developing and integrating advanced superconducting systems. Its Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (QIQB) has recently achieved a milestone with the launch of Japan’s first fully domestically produced superconducting quantum computer—designed, manufactured, and assembled entirely with homegrown hardware, cryogenics, and open-source software. This achievement reflects the university’s capacity for complete technology self-reliance in one of the most complex areas of modern computing.

The university’s expertise in superconducting technologies extends to both fundamental research and practical applications. By combining state-of-the-art laboratory capabilities with strong industry partnerships, the institution plays a pivotal role in advancing quantum hardware, open-source control systems, and scalable integration methods. These efforts are positioned to accelerate breakthroughs in materials science, drug discovery, environmental modeling, and machine learning.

The University of Osaka’s approach emphasizes collaboration, sustainability, and the translation of cutting-edge research into solutions with real-world impact. Its work in quantum science forms part of a broader mission as a Designated National University Corporation, driving innovation for human welfare, sustainable development, and societal transformation. For more information, visit please click here.


Source/Photo Credit: QIQB, The University of Osaka


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Molly Bakewell Chamberlin
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