#Japan #Osaka #CyberAgent #SPOT JAPAN #Momoyama Gakuin

SPOT JAPAN: A New Era for Inbound Tourist Services

In a recent collaboration between CyberAgent and Inbound Holdings Co., Ltd., Momoyama Gakuin University’s students have crafted innovative proposals enhancing the value of experiences for inbound tourists in Japan. With the rise in international visitors, especially with the upcoming Kansai Expo in 2024, introducing engaging services is a necessity. Inbound Holdings, based in Osaka and led by CEO Masaki Sakamoto, aims to provide tourists with optimized information through their multilingual concierge service, SPOT JAPAN. Meanwhile, CyberAgent, a digital marketing powerhouse headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has extensive expertise in bridging consumers and companies, making them a perfect partner in this journey.

On November 28th, students from the university’s Business Administration Department presented their promotional strategies during a special event. This initiative stems from the ongoing research between Professor Noriko Tsujimoto and CyberAgent, focusing on consumer behavior among inbound tourists.

A Showcase of Innovative Ideas

During the presentation, participated by third-year students from three different teams, an array of promotional ideas aimed at expanding the use of SPOT JAPAN were shared. These proposals included:

• - Creating Connections at Airports: Developing touchpoint opportunities where tourists first arrive.
• - Utilizing Behavioral Data: Designing pathways based on travelers’ actions and preferences.
• - Experiential Promotions: Engaging tourists through interactive advertising experiences.

The highlight came from the winning team, which focused on facilitating a seamless experience for Chinese family travelers at Kansai International Airport. Their project outlined how visitors could naturally engage with SPOT JAPAN, which was praised by evaluators for offering traveler-centric insights, something the companies had overlooked. The judges commented on the high quality of their research and analysis, noting the depth of understanding the students displayed about the target audience.

One student remarked, “Proposing to an actual client was an incredibly valuable learning experience.” The event proved to be mutually beneficial, generating fresh perspectives for industry partners and enhancing educational opportunities for students.

Future Developments

Masaki Sakamoto of Inbound Holdings announced that a significant redesign of SPOT JAPAN is scheduled for spring next year, intending to add new features and expand information categories. The focus will be on creating a user-friendly service for visitors, while also providing new customer attraction opportunities for domestic service providers that find PR targeting inbound customers challenging. The captivating suggestions from the students will be actively integrated into the future improvements and promotional strategies for SPOT JAPAN. Sakamoto highlighted the collaboration with CyberAgent as offering substantial learning and enhancement opportunities for their budding startup.

What is SPOT JAPAN?

SPOT JAPAN is a multilingual concierge service that allows inbound tourists to access vital information about restaurants, attractions, and shops around their accommodation using QR codes placed inside their hotel rooms. Visitors can interact with this service effortlessly, as it does not require downloading an app or logging in, ensuring a smooth experience without needing to rely on hotel staff or extensive searches. This service aims to facilitate an enjoyable and hassle-free exploration of Japan’s rich offerings by providing localized information in English, Chinese, and Korean.

About Momoyama Gakuin University

Founded in 1959, Momoyama Gakuin University traces its roots back to an English language school established in 1884. With a vision of nurturing practical learning through initiatives like the Business Design program, the university engages in comprehensive extracurricular activities including international programs and volunteer opportunities across 26 countries. In 2025, it plans to merge with Momoyama Gakuin Educational University, expanding to include a new Faculty of Human Education and the first science and technology faculty in April 2026.

About CyberAgent

As a leader in internet media and advertising since 1998, CyberAgent operates across diverse sectors including gaming and investment. Their expertise in digital marketing plays an instrumental role in the collaboration to elevate tourists' experiences.

About Inbound Holdings

Seated in Osaka, Inbound Holdings serves to enrich the experiences of inbound tourists through various entertaining services, guided by their mission to connect the world with Japan's charm and vibrancy. They aim to consistently challenge themselves in creating a world filled with smiles and kindness through entertainment.