#AquaBit Spirals #Shiogama Ferry #Digital Tickets

Engaging Your Travel Experience with Digital Solutions

In a significant development for local maritime transport, AquaBit Spirals from Minato, Tokyo, has teamed up with Tokyu Techno System based in Kawasaki, Kanagawa. Their latest project aims to promote cashless operations and invigorate regional tourism with the introduction of digital ticketing for the Shiogama City Ferry. This initiative, dubbed Kokocchi Pay Shiogama, integrates intelligent technology to transform ticket purchasing and usage.

Facing Current Challenges in Maritime Transport

Local ferry services are under threat from decreasing populations and aging communities, resulting in a decline in user engagement. Serving as an essential mode of transport for residents, the survival of these ferries is critical. To encourage both locals and tourists to utilize these services, the issues surrounding cash-based fare payments must be resolved.

Many transportation providers are still reliant on cash methods, which can be confusing and inconvenient for newcomers, especially tourists. Furthermore, implementing traditional ticketing solutions often comes with high operational costs, particularly for local providers with limited budgets. As a result, the industry has seen the urgent need for affordable digital ticketing solutions to elevate user experiences and ensure the sustainability of maritime operations.

A Seamless Digital Ticketing Solution

With the Smart Plate Digital Ticket system, users can simply wave their smartphones over designated plates situated at ferry terminals or onboard, effortlessly activating various digital services. This simplicity eliminates the need for costly vending machines or specialized payment terminals, resulting in a more streamlined user experience. Importantly, there’s no requirement for any specific app installations, making it incredibly user-friendly.

Moreover, these NFC-equipped plates operate without batteries, significantly reducing operational overheads. They also integrate smoothly with the PayChoice® system, allowing for several web-based transaction options, including major digital payment platforms like credit cards, PayPay, Google Pay, and Apple Pay.

AquaBit Spirals has previously applied these smart plates across different sectors, enabling effortless interactions between customers and services, from lodging and commerce to tourism and recreation, creating a holistic