Holographic crossing guards!

In Japan, engineers are exploring futuristic ways to make roads safer for children, including the idea of holographic crossing guards at busy crosswalks near schools. Instead of relying only on painted lines and static signs, these systems use projected light figures that appear when pedestrians are about to cross. The glowing, human-shaped signals are designed to be highly visible to drivers, even in poor weather or low-light conditions. When sensors detect someone waiting to cross, the system activates, projecting a bright, attention-grabbing figure that mimics the stance of a traditional crossing guard. Some designs also include flashing lights or illuminated pathways on the road surface, clearly marking the crossing zone. The goal is to make drivers slow down and become more aware of pedestrians, especially young students who may be harder to see in traffic. By using light rather than physical structures, the technology can be installed without major road changes. It can also adapt in real time, activating only when needed and staying off during quiet periods. This makes it both energy-efficient and less visually cluttered than permanent signage. The project reflects Japan’s broader focus on combining technology and safety in everyday life. By turning crosswalks into interactive, highly visible spaces, cities hope to reduce accidents and create safer routes for children walking to and from school.