7 Reasons to attend CHI 2025

If you work in human-computer interaction (HCI) or user experience (UX), CHI is the conference you don’t want to miss. Organized annually by SIGCHI, the international society for HCI, CHI 2025 is the ultimate gathering for researchers, designers, and practitioners shaping the future of interactive technology.

Why you should attend CHI 2025

This global event brings together experts from academia and industry to explore groundbreaking innovations, share research, and discuss the latest trends in HCI and UX. Whether you are developing next-generation interfaces, studying human-machine interactions, or designing for emerging technologies, CHI provides a unique platform to connect, learn, and advance your field.

From insightful keynotes to hands-on workshops, CHI 2025 offers something for everyone—researchers, practitioners, designers, educators, and students alike. Here’s why you should attend!

1. Premier international conference on HCI

The ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems is the premier international conference of Human-Computer Interaction. At CHI 2025, many of the world’s top researchers, scientists, and designers will come together to present the future of interactive technology. It’s an easy way to stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends in the field—making this conference one you won’t want to miss!

2. Experience CHI 2025 in Japan

This year’s CHI meeting takes place in Japan, a country known for its technological innovations, rich culture, and vibrant cities. Attending CHI 2025 offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research while exploring one of the most fascinating destinations in the world.

The meeting takes place at the PACIFICO Yokohama from 26 April to 1 May 2025. Although the conference program is packed, consider taking some time to explore the city and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. From historical landmarks to modern tech hubs, Japan provides an inspiring backdrop for CHI 2025.

Experience CHI 2025 in Japan (photo via Unsplash) 

3. Meet your peers

CHI is a multicultural community made up of individuals from highly diverse backgrounds who investigate new and creative ways for people to interact with technology. A shared interest in human-computer interaction and a common goal of developing technology that benefits people and society bring all attendees together. It’s the best place to meet your peers!

4. Find your IkiCHI

The theme of CHI 2025 is inspired by 'Ikigai,' a Japanese concept that represents a person’s sense of purpose and fulfillment. In today’s rapidly changing world, individuals face challenges related to climate change, inequality, technological shifts, and global crises.

CHI brings together a diverse community of passionate researchers, designers, and practitioners, all driven by their own unique talents and expertise. By sharing knowledge and working collaboratively, we can harness our collective 'IkiCHI'—a communal purpose—to create meaningful technological advancements that contribute to society. The cherry blossom, or ‘Sakura,’ in the CHI 2025 logo symbolizes renewal and optimism, making this conference the perfect place to find your own IkiCHI.

Find your IkiCHI in Japan (photo via Unsplash) 

5. Attend workshops

Workshops are held the weekend before the start of the conference, on Saturday and Sunday, May 10-11, 2025. They are organized independently by leaders from academia and industry. These sessions provide an ideal gathering place for attendees with shared interests and are a great way to discuss emerging and important topics with experts in the field.

6. Broaden your field

A conference like CHI is the perfect opportunity to expand your horizons and gain fresh perspectives on HCI and UX. With a vast array of specialized tracks, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, CHI 2025 allows you to explore new topics beyond your immediate expertise.

Stepping outside your comfort zone and attending sessions from different HCI subfields can spark innovative ideas, inspire new research directions, and reveal unexpected collaborations. Whether you're interested in AI-driven interfaces, accessibility, human-robot interaction, or digital ethics, there is something at CHI that will challenge your thinking and broaden your knowledge.

Take advantage of informal networking opportunities and interdisciplinary sessions to engage with professionals from diverse backgrounds. You may find that a fresh perspective from a different domain can reshape your approach to your own work. By broadening your field at CHI 2025, you open doors to new possibilities and ensure that your research and practice remain innovative and forward-thinking.

7. See the latest tools for UX and HCI research

As always, CHI 2025 features an exhibition where international companies showcase their latest tools and innovations. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies and solutions that can enhance your research and professional practice.

Join us at CHI 2025 and discover the future of UX and HCI research.