Watering Co. Introduces Innovative AI Technologies in Japanese Waterworks DX Catalog

Watering Inc., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has been recently recognized for its advanced digital transformation (DX) technologies. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan published the 'Water and Sewage DX Technology Catalog' on March 27, 2026, where three of Watering’s cutting-edge AI technologies have been added to the list: Image Recognition AI, Cloud Remote Monitoring, and Anomaly Detection in Operations.

Background

Japan's water and sewage sector has been facing significant challenges, including aging infrastructure, a shortage of skilled personnel, and the need for continual business operations even during disasters. Digital technologies have thus become essential for enhancing operational efficiency and management.

The Ministry's DX Technology Catalog aims to provide a reference for water and sewage operators to consider advanced technologies that can help address these pressing issues. Watering's inclusion in this catalog emphasizes its commitment to integrating expertise in water treatment with digital technologies to enhance operational management and efficiency. With this addition, Watering now has a total of five technologies featured in the catalog.

Overview of Incorporated Technologies

1. Image Recognition AI Monitoring System (SaiIK®)
This state monitoring technology utilizes deep learning to quantify visual assessments, which were traditionally based on human experience. By equipping facilities with devices featuring cameras and image recognition AI, real-time monitoring of equipment status is possible, enabling AI to automatically detect anomalies and ensure consistent monitoring quality.

2. Cloud-Based Remote Monitoring and Operation Platform (Sustainable Water Cloud® - SWaC®)
SWaC® consolidates operation data gathered from IoT devices installed in water facilities via mobile networks, allowing for visualization, monitoring, and alarm management through web browsers. The platform utilizes existing communication infrastructures, reducing communication costs and initial investments. Moreover, by integrating AI functions such as SaiSense® for anomaly detection and SaiIK® for image recognition, it efficiently enhances operational monitoring and preventive maintenance.

3. Anomaly Detection AI System (SaiSense®)
SaiSense® leverages machine learning to establish a baseline of normal operational data, detecting unusual behaviors that might have been missed using traditional threshold monitoring. It connects with SWaC® to analyze changes in operational data patterns, enabling early identification of equipment issues such as pump blockages and contributing to efficient inspection and rapid response during emergencies.

These technologies are expected to alleviate the burdens of daily monitoring and inspection tasks, prevent equipment failures, and streamline operational management.

Watering Inc. remains dedicated to addressing the diverse challenges faced by regional water facilities by providing tailored technologies to meet the needs of government and regional entities.

About Watering Group

Watering Group is driven by its philosophy to continuously contribute to society through water, regarded as the source of life. The company manages everything from the design and construction to the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, including water purification plants and sewage treatment centers, at around 300 locations nationwide.

Under the brand slogan, 'Create the Future of Water', Watering focuses on solving community challenges to ensure a safe and reliable water environment, supporting the future of both daily life and cities through water.

For more information, visit the official website.