Official “real estate” worlds themed around the Japanese snacks “Kinoko no Yama” and “Takenoko no Sato,” titled “FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA” and “FOREST TOWER TAKENOKONOSATO,” have been released on the metaverse platform “cluster.”
This world was released by Meiji Co., Ltd. with the aim of expanding the “Kinoko no Yama” and “Takenoko no Sato” brands. Cottages and villa-like buildings are placed throughout the world, and ownership of these buildings can actually be purchased. Until now, only purchasers could enter the world, but now some areas have been made available for free.
“FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA” is a resort area themed after “Kinoko no Yama” (Mushroom Mountain), a world that recreates the village depicted on the packaging in “cluster” using the latest technology and a modern interpretation. “FOREST TOWER TAKENOKONOSATO” is a place that recreates the scenery of the area behind “Kinoko no Yama” in virtual space.
Each world is accessed from the “Entrance World,” called “Kinotake Real Estate Airship (Entrance).” This world serves as both a lobby and a party room, and you can travel to either “FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA” or “FOREST TOWER TAKENOKONOSATO” from the helipads on either side. The interior of the airship features calming colors and a luxurious design that matches the villa.
(A guide map featuring illustrations of both worlds)
Now, let’s get on the helicopter and head to “FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA.” Once you board, the helicopter will take off automatically. After a short scenic flight, there will be a road section for transportation.
(View from a helicopter)
“FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA” is a quiet villa area deep in the mountains, with various buildings built along the mountain slopes. Unfortunately, “free entry” does not allow you to enter the villas, but you can walk along the mountain paths and look around, seeing the mushroom river and enjoying photography.
You can reach the other world, “FOREST TOWER TAKENOKONOSATO,” from the helipad on the opposite side of the airship. Unlike the previous world, this one is built on a large bamboo shoot-shaped mountain with cottages scattered around.
(Entrance to the helipad)
Additionally, there is an elevator that cuts through the mountain, so if you’re in a hurry, you can use it to go up to the upper floors.
If the “FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA” and “FOREST TOWER TAKENOKONOSATO” sales go well, we may see other real estate developments themed around sweets appearing in the future.
However, both worlds currently have several challenges. A particular problem is the lack of clear pathways to showcase the appeal of the paid content (real estate). As mentioned earlier, the free areas are limited to outdoor zones, making it almost impossible to interact with the real estate itself. This makes it difficult to grasp the elements that can be experienced within the buildings.
Even the cheapest “Superior” class properties in the world cost 10,000 yen, which, frankly, makes it difficult for the average person to decide to “just buy it.” Personally, I think that if there were limited-time viewing events that allowed access to vacation homes and restricted floors, it would be easier to learn more about the details of both worlds and make it easier to seriously consider purchasing a vacation home.
Another point of concern is that, assuming you buy a property, there are few “reasons” to access it regularly after the purchase. Currently, both worlds are positioned as purely real estate worlds, and the main way to enjoy them is through interaction with friends. However, this alone does not really differentiate them from other “cluster” worlds.
The “Kinoko no Yama” and “Takenoko no Sato” brands will be made more effective. For example, animals such as raccoons and rabbits, which are depicted on some packages, could be featured for a limited time. Alternatively, measures to continuously attract potential buyers of the properties, such as making the world environment more luxurious or changing the scenery according to the seasons, will be important. Holding exclusive events that only buyers can participate in could also be a way to enhance the appeal. We will be watching with interest to see how Meiji approaches both worlds going forward.
Please note that “FOREST HILLS KINOKONOYAMA” and “FOREST TOWER TAKENOKONOSATO” are scheduled to cease public access on March 10, 2029. While there’s no real urgency, those interested should check the availability of the villas and other details sooner rather than later.
Click here for access to “Real Kinotake Airship Estate (Entrance)”