Embracing Innovation: AI Sakura in Komono Town
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modernizing public services, Komono Town in Mie Prefecture is set to implement the "AI Sakura" system, developed by Tifana.com, starting January 5, 2026. This innovative project, in collaboration with the DMM.com regional revitalization initiative, focuses on enhancing the town's administrative efficiency and public service quality by integrating AI technology across three pivotal contact points: the town office reception, phone services, and the official website.
Addressing Challenges: Workforce Shortages and Service Improvement
Facing a declining workforce due to the challenges of an aging population and low birth rates, Komono Town recognizes the urgent need to leverage digital technologies for operational efficiency. Many staff hours are currently consumed by routine inquiries, detracting from their ability to focus on more nuanced resident interactions and planning activities. The adoption of "AI Sakura," which combines the latest advancements in AI such as ChatGPT and image generation technologies, aims to tackle these issues. The AI will assume routine tasks, allowing human employees to engage more meaningfully with residents and enhance service delivery.
AI Sakura: More Than Just Technology
What sets this project apart is how Komono Town is welcoming AI Sakura, not as a mere tool but as a valued member of their team. In a special feature in the December issue of the town’s newsletter, AI Sakura is introduced by its given name, "Shibuya Sakura," alongside personal details such as its birthday on April 5 and hobbies like DIY and idol watching. This initiative is designed to cultivate a friendly relationship with residents, positioning Sakura as a helpful guide within the town office. The town envisions broadening Sakura’s role in the future to include tourist information and other public-facing duties.
Three Key Solutions to Be Deployed
The integration of AI Sakura will consist of three main solutions, each aimed at streamlining interactions within the town:
1.
Avatar Reception Sakura
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Location: East Entrance of the Town Office
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Role: Provides guidance on application forms and departmental locations via voice and screen, helping to alleviate congestion at service counters.
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Launch: January 5, 2026
2.
AI Phone Response Sakura
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Location: Town Office Main Phone
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Role: Offers automated responses to phone inquiries 24/7, including outside of office hours.
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Launch: February 2026 (phased)
3.
AI Chatbot Sakura
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Location: Official Website
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Role: Provides instant answers to online inquiries, supporting residents in finding solutions on their own.
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Launch: February 2026 (phased)
Future Prospects
As the new AI systems become operational, Komono Town plans to continuously refine their performance based on real-world usage data and feedback from users. Future developments will likely include expanded applications in tourist information, showcasing local attractions like Yunoyama Onsen and Mount Gozaisho. Tifana.com is dedicated to fostering a more compassionate and supportive society through AI Sakura, which aims not just to deliver information but to connect genuinely with the community. By regularly engaging in dialogues with residents, AI Sakura will evolve into an even more valuable asset, learning and adapting to better serve the needs of Komono Town.
About AI Sakura
AI Sakura is an AI agent that requires no setup or tuning by users, designed to support the digital transformation of businesses and local governments. With the tagline, "AI Sakura: Your Companion in Work and Happiness," the system promotes interactive engagement to facilitate DX.
Why Choose AI Sakura?
- - Incorporates cutting-edge AI technologies like ChatGPT and image generation.
- - Complies with numerous AI-related patents and boasts various ISO certifications for quality assurance and cloud security.
- - Customizable to fit specific operational needs in a short timeframe.
- - Fully automates operational and maintenance tasks.
A growing number of companies and municipalities across Japan have chosen AI Sakura for their digital transformation efforts. From contactless service in train stations and commercial facilities to online and telephone reception, AI Sakura is proving its versatility across diverse sectors, enhancing user experience and increasing operational efficiency.
About Tifana.com
Headquartered in Meguro, Tokyo, Tifana.com has been dedicated to its corporate philosophy of spreading smiles through the power of AI since its establishment in 2000. The company specializes in web development across various industries while innovating in artificial intelligence. Since the launch of AI Sakura in October 2016, it has been integrated into many organizations nationwide, actively Leading Digital Transformation. As of March 2024, Tifana.com will join the HEROZ Inc. group, publicly listed, and continue its mission with renewed vigor.