Accelerating Regional Revitalization through AI with MARUKU's TADAIMA QUEST Engagement Service

MARUKU's Innovative Step Towards Regional Revitalization

Kumamoto-based MARUKU Corporation is taking huge strides in regional revitalization by introducing its innovative engagement service, "TADAIMA QUEST". Targeting an official launch in January 2026, this service aims to enhance the relationship between communities and their visitors through advanced AI technology integrated with LINE. To ensure a successful rollout, MARUKU is now inviting local governments and community organizations to participate in free testing of the service.

The Motivation Behind the Development

Since its inception in 2017, MARUKU has been focused on eliminating the information divide between urban and rural areas through digital technologies. Founded in Yamato Town, which suffered extensively from the Kumamoto earthquake, the company’s mission was inspired by a strong desire to create positive digital success stories in underprivileged regions. Previous efforts include implementing digital stamp rallies to stimulate tourism and utilizing coupons to encourage consumer behaviors, impacting over 300 communities.

However, while these initiatives were successful in drawing visitors, they highlighted a significant gap: fostering deep, lasting connections with these communities wasn’t being effectively achieved. Thus, the need for an application that cultivates a more profound relationship, dubbed "関係人口" or relationship population, arose.

Defining Relationship Population

In MARUKU’s vision, this term represents individuals who transform a mere visit into an emotional connection, facilitating a transition from 'just another travel spot' to a ‘beloved second home’. Through the framework of TADAIMA QUEST, MARUKU aims to craft an enduring bond between individuals and the communities they visit.

Service Name - TADAIMA QUEST

The name "TADAIMA QUEST" embodies the desire to create a "soulful bond" connecting people and places beyond mere digital interaction. The phrase "TADAIMA", meaning "I’m home", encapsulates the emotional gravity this service seeks to cultivate; it aims to change the perception of a location from a simple destination to a cherished, familiar space.

The quest aspect symbolizes a warm journey where AI helps users uncover personal interests, turning local experiences into a rich narrative of their lives.

Key Features of TADAIMA QUEST

1. Personalized Experiences Using LINE

TADAIMA QUEST employs LINE’s communication tools, enabling tailored information distribution based on users' behaviors and preferences without requiring additional app installations.

2. AI-Powered Engagement

Through analyzing user data, the AI offers personalized suggestions of local experiences that resonate with individual interests, creating impactful content designed to motivate users to explore their surroundings. The mission-driven adventure composes an enjoyable gameplay-like experience where users earn scores for achieving specific tasks related to local culture.

3. Increasing Local Engagement

The app encourages users to engage in offline activities such as attending events, utilizing local facilities, and shopping, through features designed to motivate them to 'move' and contribute to community interactions.

4. Data-Driven Insights for Administrators

TADAIMA QUEST also offers an AI reporting feature that analyzes user activities, providing logistic support and consulting to enhance future regional events and initiatives based on precise data.

5. A Chance to Join Free Testing

To gather insights from diverse regions before the full launch, MARUKU is currently seeking municipalities, DMOs, tourist associations, and local organizations willing to undertake a collaborative role in the testing process. Participants will receive the service at no charge as well as technical support, user data analysis, and strategic consultation.

Future Aspirations

MARUKU envisions TADAIMA QUEST as a bridge connecting people seeking local experiences with the unique charms of various regions. By engaging not only local residents but also all individuals wishing to support these areas, the platform aims to create unforgettable experiences and drive a new wave of local revitalization across Japan. Through TADAIMA QUEST, MARUKU aims to unlock the full potential of Japan's localities, fostering a renewed dedication to rural communities.