State-of-the-art "IBM Quantum System One" computing system established in Japan

The University of Tokyo and IBM have established IBM Quantum System One, the first gate-model commercial quantum computer system in Japan, at KBIC in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, on July 27^th, 2021. Its operation is the result of the Japan IBM quantum partnership, announced between IBM and the University of Tokyo in December 2019. The University of Tokyo retained the exclusive rights to the system. The University of Tokyo will utilize this quantum computing system with the cooperation of research organizations including companies, public organizations, and universities.

KBIC is an incubation facility for industry-academia exchange established in the Shin-Kawasaki Sozo no Mori area. Kawasaki City supplied resources including electricity, coolant, and gas to the project. A vibration-resistant environment was also established to enable stable operation of the quantum computer system. Stable operation of the first gated commercial quantum computer is expected accelerate quantum computing research activities in Japan. The University of Tokyo, Kawasaki City, and IBM Japan signed an agreement in June this year for the expansion and development of quantum computing technology. These three institutions will cooperate to ensure the stable operation of the quantum computer system, the expansion and promotion of quantum computing applications, and human resource development for future use of the technology.

The University of Tokyo IBM Quantum Hardware Test Center was opened in the University of Tokyo's Asano Campus in June of this year for quantum computing research and development. The University of Tokyo and IBM have been working toward the expansion and development of quantum computing applications. Furthermore, IBM Collaboration Center was set up in the University of Tokyo's Hongo Campus in mid-August. This center enables information exchange among the member companies of the Quantum Innovation Initiative Council. This facility will be available to the member companies and companies established by the University of Tokyo. Both parties will cooperate to facilitate the development of quantum computers.

Teruo Fujii, the President of the University of Tokyo, said, "In the rapidly evolving quantum technology field, in order to achieve implementation in society it is important to not only develop the systems and elements required for development of quantum systems but also next-generation human resources. Our university faculty engage in a wide range of research activities. We promote advanced quantum education from the undergraduate level onwards. We aim to utilize System One to enhance the development of next-generation 'quantum natives.'"

Dario Gil, IBM Senior Vice President and Research Director, said, "IBM is committed to the growth of the global quantum ecosystem and fostering collaboration between different research communities. As part of this global effort, I am proud to be unveiling Japan's most powerful quantum computer and excited to see the contributions to research that will be made by Japan's world-class academic, private sector and government institutions. Together, we can take major steps to accelerate scientific progress in a variety of fields."