Public Technologies Launches AI-Based Demand-Responsive Transport in Aomori Prefecture

Public Technologies, a GovTech startup headquartered in Tokyo, has announced an innovative partnership with Higashi-Tōhō Village in Aomori Prefecture. Starting December 1, 2025, the company will implement its AI on-demand transportation service as part of a national initiative aimed at addressing public transit gaps across Japan.

This project utilizes the 'PubTech AI Dispatch' system to facilitate demand-responsive transport along established bus routes. Participants can hail transport at existing bus stops, ensuring flexibility and convenience as the service adapts to reservation requests. Given the challenge of declining bus ridership in rural areas, this initiative aims to bolster local transportation options and encourage community engagement.

Background and Challenges

In Higashi-Tōhō Village, a noticeable decline in bus riders has led to reduced service availability, with fewer buses operating on key routes. Residents, particularly the elderly and those without private vehicles, often face limited transportation options, making it difficult to access essential services such as medical appointments and shopping.

Recognizing these challenges, Public Technologies steps in with a full-service approach that includes not only providing technology but also assisting with operational design and ongoing support. Their commitment to fostering collaborations across regions is seen as a significant forward-thinking strategy, and the implementation of ‘PubTech AI Dispatch’ has been widely praised.

As a result of this initiative, residents will experience an increase in daily service options, enhancing their ability to travel for various needs. At the same time, transit operators can benefit from a more efficient operation that allows for service only during periods of demand.

Key Features of the Initiative

The demand-responsive transport service will operate daily, ensuring reliability for various user groups, including seniors, shoppers, and students. The existing bus stops on the ‘Tōhō Line’ will serve as pick-up and drop-off points. Reservations can be made via an app or by calling a dedicated service line. Operated locally by Tōhō Tourism and Shiriya Tourism, the service is designed to minimize operational burdens while best meeting community needs.

During off-peak hours, the system will still provide necessary rides while optimizing efficiency. The focus will be on gradually reducing transportation deserts within the village, with a future looking towards potential door-to-door rideshare solutions.

What is ‘PubTech AI Dispatch’?

The ‘PubTech AI Dispatch’ is a sophisticated on-demand service integrated into the Public Technologies app. It calculates optimal vehicles and routes based on user reservations, capable of accommodating regular bus service requests and sporadic rides. This versatile system supports reservations from both the app and a call center, ensuring accessibility. With advanced management tools for operators and a dedicated app for drivers, the initiative enhances digital transformation in transport management.

Operation Overview

- Implementation Period: December 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026 (excluding December 31 and January 1)
- Service Type: Reservation-based shared transport (irregular route services)
- Target Areas: Along the Tōhō Line (from Tōhō to Mutsu City)
- Users: Open to all community members, including seniors and students
- Reservation Methods: Via app or direct call to a dedicated center (operating daily from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM)
- Payment Options: Accepted in cash and credit cards

Future Prospects

Public Technologies is on a mission to unlock the potential of communities, aiming to establish a sustainable public transport model based on feedback from residents and data-driven improvements. Insights gained from this project may lead to the implementation of door-to-door ridesharing and expanded collaborations across regions, contributing to resolving transit gaps nationwide.

The company pledges to support public transport throughout Japan using digital technologies, creating an environment where people can move freely with peace of mind. For inquiries about this initiative, individuals can reach out via [email protected] or visit Public Technologies.

About Public Technologies

Public Technologies, Inc. embodies the vision of 'Japanese Dynamism - Energizing Japan from the Regions to the World.' The company operates within the GovTech sector, offering digital solutions that encompass everything from public ridesharing to administrative support tools.