Shanghai, China2023
the-mu
A decentralized collaborative ecosystem for blockchain builders, hosting pop-up villages and community projects while engaging with local communities.
What is the-mu?
the-mu is a community of digital nomads organizing pop-up cities focused on blockchain, cryptography, and web3 technologies.
History
the-mu has been organizing pop-up cities across various continents since 2023.
In 2023, it hosted muChiangMai, the first web3 pop-up city in Southeast Asia.
The year after, muBuenos ran for six weeks in Argentina and muAccra for two weeks in Ghana.
In 2025, the-mu was present at Expo 2025 in Japan, and, in 2026, it hosts a one-month pop-up city in Shanghai - muShanghai.
Location
the-mu hosts pop-up villages across various continents, though its roots are in Asia.
Duration
the-mu's pop-up villages typically last 2 to 6 weeks.
Pricing
Most pop-up villages that the-mu hosts are free to attend.
Accommodation is usually included, mainly for developers. It can also be partially covered by housing grants.
the-mu’s pop-up villages often include hackathons featuring prize pools in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Reviews
“ We realized the importance of long-term spaces for bonding. ” Danilo Kim, Co-Founder at Yoru Labs
Observing our previous events, we got inspired by the unique bond that comes from living with fellow crypto enthusiasts for an extended period during events such as muChiangMai. We realized the importance of long-term spaces for bonding.
“ My first pop-up city event attended, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. ” Mapache, Developer at Wonderland
Thanks Argentina, thanks the-mu! I'm really optimistic about continuing to build the community in Bolivia.
How can you get involved?
- Subscribe to the newsletter.
- Reach out directly via contact@the-mu.xyz.
- Join an upcoming pop-up village, usually announced on X.
FAQs
What is the goal of the-mu?
To solve real-world problems using blockchain and cryptography by creating pop-up cities for co-learning, co-building, and fostering long-term builder communities.
How long do the-mu pop-up cities last?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks, with participants joining for varying durations.
What’s the program like in the-mu’s pop-up cities?
Technical bootcamps and workshops on ZK, MPC, and on-chain gaming. Community events like Muay Thai, yoga, and hikes.
How much does it cost to attend a the-mu pop-up city?
the-mu's pop-up villages are usually free or low-cost.
Does the-mu provide accommodation?
Yes, co-living spaces are available, with accommodations provided for many developers (e.g., 83 devs in muChiangMai).