# Akita eyes AI data center that could become Japan’s largest

> Source: <https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2026/08/17/companies/akita-data-center/>
> Published: 2026-08-17 05:07:00+00:00

A plan is underway to build an artificial intelligence data center in Akita Prefecture that could become Japan’s largest.

The plan is being led by S2, a server management firm based in the city of Akita, and U.S. startup Bitgrit, with the total construction cost estimated at ¥2 trillion ($12.5 billion).

The firms are cooperating with Akita Prefecture and the city of Akita with an aim to make the data center a hub to attract AI-related businesses and human resources.