Smart Bins Introduced in Takachiho Gorge to Promote Sustainable Tourism

Smart Bins Introduced in Takachiho Gorge

In a collaborative effort between Force Tech, the Takachiho Tourism Association, and JTB Corporation, the scenic Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture has become the first location in the region to implement eco-friendly smart bins named "SmaGO". This initiative began on December 17, 2025, and is part of a sustainable tourism promotion project led by Japan's Tourism Agency to prevent over-tourism.

Background of the Initiative

Takachiho Gorge is a renowned natural landmark in Japan that attracts approximately 1.5 million visitors annually, a number that has been increasing due to a rise in inbound tourism. However, the area has faced significant challenges related to littering and overflowing trash bins. The lack of adequate waste disposal facilities has led to aesthetic degradation and increased environmental burden, resulting in heightened demand for cleaning and waste collection services.

To address these challenges, Force Tech decided to deploy SmaGO bins, which operate on solar power and have the capability to compress waste by up to 80%, subsequently transmitting the data on waste volume through cloud notifications. This technology aims to significantly reduce littering, prevent overflow, and enhance the efficiency of waste collection while preserving the breathtaking scenery of the gorge.

Installation Details

- Operational Start Date: December 17, 2025
- Installation Sites: A total of 5 locations around Takachiho Gorge, including the first and third parking lots, in front of the Takachiho Freshwater Aquarium, in front of the Tourism Association's official shop, and at the Takachiho Bus Center.
- Total Number of Bins: 10 (5 for burnable waste and 5 for bottles and cans)
- Design: Some of the units feature exterior wraps showcasing the picturesque scenery of Takachiho Gorge, designed to blend in with the environment and convey local charm.
- Safety Features: Each bin is equipped with a fire suppression film to initiate early firefighting measures in case waste ignites.

Future Plans

The operational data gathered in the Takachiho Gorge area will be analyzed to optimize waste management and landscape preservation strategies. Insights from this initiative will be leveraged to promote sustainable tourism practices in other local landmarks throughout Japan.

About SmaGO

SmaGO is an IoT smart trash bin developed by Force Tech with a commitment to environmental sustainability. These bins utilize solar energy to automatically compress waste to about 20% of its original size and communicate waste levels to users via a notification system. This functionality not only prevents overflow but also significantly streamlines waste collection operations. The exterior design can be customized to promote awareness around recycling and attract sponsorships, helping to lower operational costs. SmaGO installations align with six of the 17 goals established by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Effectiveness Examples

- In Omotesando-Harajuku, Tokyo, collection frequency was reduced by approximately 75%.
- In Dotonbori, Osaka, littering around the area was reduced by around 90% (excluding cigarette butts).

About Force Tech

- Company Name: Force Tech, Inc.
- Established: April 15, 2019
- Location: Otemachi One Tower 6F, 1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 100-0004, Japan
- Representative: Yohei Takemura, President & CEO
- Business Focus: Proposing integrated environmental activities through the deployment of smart bins like SmaGO across Japan.
- Official Website: https://forcetec.jp