Method and apparatus for navigating virtual space

摘要

In an information providing system 100, a virtual three-dimensional space (virtual space) is established by an information management server 40. A user of a mobile communication terminal 50 moves in the virtual space, and browses, posts, and searches message information items by manipulating an avatar representing the user. The information management server 40 manages the message information items and responds to searches requested from mobile communication terminals 50. The information management server 40 specifies an area where the number of message information items relevant to a search word specified by a user of a mobile communication terminal 50 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number. The information management server 40 outputs a guide information item for indicating a direction or route toward the specified area from the position of an avatar. Based on the guide information item, the mobile communication terminal 50 displays an image of an arrow pointing a direction or route toward the specified area as a target area.