#Japan #AI Sakura #Shodoshima #Tifana

AI Sakura Transforms Tourism in Shodoshima

In a significant innovation for the tourism sector, "AI Sakura" has been officially introduced at the Shodoshima Sakate Port Terminal on April 12, 2025. Implemented by Tifana Dotcom, headquartered in Meguro, Tokyo, this initiative aims to support the anticipated surge in visitors for both the Osaka-Kansai Expo and the Setouchi International Art Festival.

Addressing the Surge in Tourism

In recent years, Shodoshima has seen a remarkable increase in tourist numbers, particularly from international visitors. The Sakate Port serves as a crucial gateway from the Kansai region, making it essential to enhance tourist experiences. Until now, inadequate staffing at information centers and the lack of multilingual support posed challenges for visitors. With the implementation of AI Sakura, this project, assisted by funding from Japan's Digital Rural City Initiative, marks a significant step in digitizing tourist information services.

Multilingual Support for Smooth Travel

Located on the first floor of the Sakate Port Terminal, AI Sakura provides a wealth of services, offering information in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. This ensures that foreign travelers can easily navigate their visit without stress. The AI offers real-time updates on ferry operations and local transportation, facilitating smooth movement around the island. Anime fans and art enthusiasts can also access information about popular attractions, local cuisine, and various exhibitions during the Setouchi International Art Festival. The AI serves as a comprehensive guide to all facilities within the terminal, ensuring that tourists receive clear and helpful guidance throughout their journey.

Pioneering the Future of Tourism with AI

The introduction of AI Sakura is expected to initiate a digital transformation (DX) in tourist information services, significantly enhancing visitor satisfaction and addressing the personnel shortages that tourism currently faces. Future plans will include closer cooperation with local accommodations and dining establishments, aiming to provide even more convenient services. Additionally, the AI will play a key role in tourism analytics, helping to develop effective promotional strategies based on data insights.

What is AI Sakura?

AI Sakura is a user-friendly conversational AI that requires no setup or tuning by the customer. Embodying the concept of "Your AI Companion, working together for happiness and success," it supports digital transformation for both companies and local governments through engaging dialogue.

AI Sakura's popularity stems from several factors:

• - Integration of cutting-edge AI technologies, such as ChatGPT and image generation AI.
• - Possession of AI-related patents and quality certifications.
• - Collection of various ISO certifications for cloud security.
• - Fast, customized implementations tailored to the specific needs of clients.
• - Fully automated operations and maintenance.

Numerous organizations, including major corporations, local governments, and public transport systems, have adopted AI Sakura to enhance customer engagement through AI-powered interactions, whether in stations, shopping centers, websites, or over the phone.

About Tifana Dotcom

Founded in 2000, Tifana Dotcom aims to spread happiness using the power of the web and AI. Based in Meguro, Tokyo, the company has been supporting digital transformation for businesses and municipalities alike. Over the years, Tifana has established a reputation for excellence in web development across various industries, leading to their venture into AI technology and the eventual launch of AI Sakura in October 2016. Today, AI Sakura has gained traction nationwide, playing a vital role in the digital evolution of many organizations. Moreover, Tifana Dotcom will be joining the HEROZ Inc. group, listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, beginning in March 2024.