#Japan #Kyoto #Digital Map #Kyoto Tourism #AI Stamp Rally

Exploring Hidden Gems in Kyoto through AI

Introduction

Kyoto, a city renowned for its rich history and stunning temples, has been facing a long-standing issue with traffic congestion due to the influx of tourists. Recently, a fascinating solution emerged in the form of an innovative digital stamp rally powered by AI technology, known as the "Platinum Rally." This initiative aims to encourage tourists to venture beyond the typical attractions and explore lesser-known locales, thus easing congestion during peak tourism periods.

Background on the Tourism Challenge

As one of the world's top tourist destinations, Kyoto has seen significant growth in tourist numbers, leading to overwhelming crowds at major spots. Recognizing this challenge, the city adopted a new strategy focused on changing tourist behavior by incorporating advanced digital tools to redirect visitors.

The Digital Map Initiative

In November 2024, the foundation for this approach was laid with the establishment of the "Kyoto Digital Map" called "Kyosuma," built on the digital map platform "Platinum Map." This comprehensive digital tool allows tourists to access a variety of essential information in real-time, including attraction updates, congestion levels, and even features like baggage storage and pre-booking of parking spaces. Since its launch, Kyosuma has accumulated over 1 million page views, indicating a growing interest in this digital resource.

AI-Powered Stamp Rally

Following the launch of Kyosuma, the next step involved the introduction of the AI-enhanced stamp rally, designed to motivate tourists to visit hidden gems through engaging missions. Unlike traditional QR code-based systems, this innovative format employs AI technology for photo and voice recognition, allowing participants to earn stamps by completing fun tasks like photographing unique locations such as the northern garden of Ninnaji Temple.

First Phase: Collaborations and Missions

The initial phase of the stamp rally, conducted in collaboration with the Kabuki performance "Ryuuhakurou Sansei" (from the series "Lupin III"), was held from August to September 2025. Participants navigated through lesser-known spots within Kyoto to complete missions, engaging with the city in a novel and exciting way.

Results from the First Phase

An impressive 92% of participants reported they visited places they typically wouldn't have. With 781 people taking part (156% of the target), and an overall satisfaction rate of 91%, the stamp rally was deemed highly successful in modifying tourist behavior. Additionally, around 90% of attendees reported first learning about Kyosuma through the rally, contributing to a 1.6-fold increase in visitation during the event.

Expansion of the Initiative: Autumn Smart Walks

Building on the first phase's success, the second phase, named "Autumn Kyoto Smart Walks," took place from November to December 2025. This initiative not only continued to promote spatial diversity around the city but also introduced time-based incentives to encourage visits during less busy hours. Tourists earned more points for visiting off-peak times, enhancing the experience while continuing to tackle congestion.

Multi-Faceted Platform Integration

The combined efforts of the digital map and AI rally have proven effective, with 93.2% of participants acknowledging the map's role in avoiding crowded areas. This integration illustrates how technology can create engaging experiences for users while also addressing practical issues such as congestion.

Conclusion and Future Developments

Overall, the introduction of the AI-powered stamp rally in Kyoto signifies a forward-thinking approach toward modernizing tourism. The success of this project provides a replicable model for other cities facing similar challenges and highlights the potential of AI in transforming tourist interactions. Moving forward, Boldright, the company behind these initiatives, aims to expand their tourism advancements, ensuring a continuously evolving and enriching experience for visitors in Kyoto and beyond.

For more information on the Digital Stamp Rally and the Kyosuma platform, visit Boldright's official website and explore the future of travel in Kyoto.