The inauguration of joint global exchange point for Japan opens a valuable alternative route to Asia for European research and education networks.
For the first time the research and education networks of Japan will be operating a joint Global Exchange Point (GXP) – FUJIXP. The new GXP will offer a single point for networks such as NORDUnet to connect to networks in Japan and is a valuable addition to the set of exchange points across the world that serve as focal points for the global research and education network infrastructure (GREN).
Historically, Japan has been served by several research and education networks, each with their specific mission. By joining forces in operating FUJIXP, they enable a major leap forward, according to Lars Fischer, Chief Relations Officer at NORDUnet:
“The new exchange point is a happy occasion for the Japanese research and education community. Moreover, it is very welcome news for partners like NORDUnet seeking even stronger connections with partners in Japan in the future. And thirdly, FUJIXP adds extra resilience to the global fabric of R&E connectivity, offering a key point of interconnect for Asian networks and their global partners.”
Supplements successful Singapore link
In 2019, NORDUnet and other European and Asian partners co-founded the Asia-Europe Ring (AER) landing in Singapore on the Asian side.
Over the six years since its creation, AER has enhanced both the number of partners and its capacity.
“The AER has proven its value, not just during normal operation, but also in situations where the traditional routes mainly through the Red Sea have suffered from congestion or breakdowns. NICT and NII of Japan have been a key partner in the success of AER. With FUJIXP Japan is writing a new chapter, which is very welcome” says Lars Fischer.
Future hub for Arctic connection
Recently, AER and its partners have demonstrated sustained 100 Gbps data transfer between Europe and Asia. One of the motivations behind this ambitious project was to ensure fast and reliable connectivity for researchers at the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS), Japan, ahead of the establishment of the international large-scale fusion facility ITER, under construction in Saint Paul-lez-Durance, France.
The FUJIXP will play a key role in connecting Japanese researchers to ITER and other international science facilities.
For NORDUnet, the new exchange point will also have an exciting future role, notes Lars Fischer:
“When the Polar Connect link under preparation by NORDUnet and our partners through the Arctic Ocean becomes ready, it lands in Japan at the Asian side. The existence of a single Japanese XP will make data distribution to and from Japanese and other Asian partners much easier.”
The formal inauguration of FUJI XP and a signing ceremony took place November 13, 2025. Chief Collaboration Officer Erik Kikkenborg represented NORDUnet at the event.
Map used for illustration from https://www.gna-g.net/
