#Japan #Niigata #Facial Recognition #TMN #Niigata Transportation

Niigata's Innovative Transit Experiment

In a groundbreaking initiative, Transaction Media Networks (TMN), a Tokyo-based electronic payment services firm, has embarked on a pilot project aimed at leveraging facial recognition technology to streamline bus boarding processes. This experimental phase, which runs from December 2 to December 21, 2025, will take place in Niigata City and utilizes a subsidy from the city’s digital innovation program for the fiscal year 2025.

TMN's initiative involves the installation of AI cameras on select buses operated by Niigata Transportation Company. The primary goal of this project is twofold: first, to gather accurate boarding and alighting data using facial recognition techniques, and second, to enhance operational efficiency and reduce the labor intensity of transit services in response to growing challenges such as an ongoing driver shortage and population decline affecting public transportation across Japan.

The Role of Data in Public Transport

The significance of the data collected through facial recognition technology cannot be overstated. TMN aims to use this information not only to facilitate walk-through facial recognition payments but also to better understand customer needs and optimize routing plans. In light of Japan's current public transportation challenges, these advancements are crucial for maintaining sustainable local transit systems.

This pilot program represents the fifth iteration of TMN's experiments in Niigata and Shibukawa, focusing on enhancing the reliability of facial recognition. Previous trials helped identify critical challenges concerning camera placements, image processing techniques, and the methods employed to gather data within a cloud infrastructure. Learnings from these tests have led to substantial upgrades in both hardware and software components, significantly improving the speed and accuracy of facial recognition systems.

Potential Applications of Boarding Data

The data obtained from this pilot will have various practical applications, including:

• - Optimizing Bus Route Planning: Creating more efficient schedules based on actual boarding patterns.
• - Streamlining Payment Processes: Simplifying transactions to reduce infrastructure costs.
• - Enhancing Customer Experience: Implementing hassle-free boarding procedures through walk-through payments.
• - Marketing Collaborations: Partnering with local businesses for promotional opportunities based on transit data.

TMN's Commitment to Sustainable Transport

TMN's ongoing efforts to harness data analytics are designed to address pressing challenges within public transport and contribute to building a sustainable local community. By continually improving transit technology and integrating innovative solutions, TMN aspires to reshape the future of transportation in Japan.

About Transaction Media Networks

Founded in March 2008, Transaction Media Networks specializes in merging payment systems with marketing insights. They offer a cloud-based POS and integrated prepaid card solutions, having pioneered commercial applications for electronic payments in 2011. Today, TMN provides comprehensive gateway services that support a variety of payment methods, contributing to a network of over 1.1 million terminals across diverse retail environments, including supermarkets and convenience stores.

Company Overview

• - CEO: Atsushi Ootaka (Growth Market: 5258)
• - Headquarters: 2-11-2 Nihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo, Japan, 18th Floor, Taiyo Life Nihonbashi Building
• - Business Focus: Development and provision of electronic payment services and information processing services.
• - Capital: ¥6.1651 billion (as of March 2025)
• - Website: TMN Corporate Site

As TMN moves forward, they remain dedicated to addressing the evolving needs of public transportation and enhancing the overall efficiency of services for commuters in Japan.