#Japan #AI Technology #Tokyo #Tokyo tourism #Local Businesses

Enhancing Tokyo’s Tourist Value Through AI and Technology

Tokyo is taking significant strides in integrating advanced technologies like AI into its tourism sector. This initiative aims to boost the value of tourist destinations by encouraging collaboration among local businesses. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has recently announced the opening of applications for subsidies in the fiscal year 2025, aimed at implementing AI and other advanced technologies within various tourism-related enterprises.

Subsidy Overview

The subsidies are targeted at regional groups consisting of two or more businesses in Tokyo. Eligible projects must focus on collaboration among multiple enterprises such as area management organizations, Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), and accommodations, with the goal being to enhance tourism's value through technological implementation.

Eligible Expenses

The following expenses can be covered by the subsidy:
1. Equipment Acquisition Costs: This can include purchase, lease, or rental expenses of machinery needed to implement AI technologies.
2. System Implementation Costs: Expenses related to the development of systems or applications are also included in the subsidy coverage.
3. Expert Guidance Fees: Costs for technical and marketing advice from specialists in the field are also considered eligible.

Subsidy Amount and Rate

The maximum subsidy amount is set at 40 million yen, covering up to 50% of the expenses incurred.

Project Implementation Period

The projects must be completed within one year from the date of subsidy approval.

Application Period

Applications for the subsidy can be submitted from May 9, 2025, to August 15, 2025. Following the deadline, the Tokyo government will review applications and select recipients based on established criteria.

Number of Projects Funded

It is anticipated that four projects will be funded in total.

Application Methods

Applications can be submitted by either of the following methods:
1. Through the electronic application system called 'LoGo Form'.
2. By mailing documents to the Tokyo Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs, Tourism Department.

For more details, applicants can visit the official website: Tokyo Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs.

Upcoming Seminar

In addition to the subsidy program, an informative seminar is scheduled to enhance understanding and awareness of the initiative.

Seminar Details

• - Date and Time: July 2, 2025, from 14:00 to 16:30.
• - Target Participants: Tourism-related businesses in Tokyo, DMOs, area management entities, and local governments.
• - Capacity: The seminar will host 60 attendees onsite and 300 online (registration is on a first-come, first-served basis).
• - Content: The seminar will feature a presentation on the use of AI technologies in tourism and additional sessions for hands-on experience and consultations, exclusive for onsite attendees.

Registration Deadline

Interested participants must register by June 27, 2025. Registration can be completed through the following URL: Registration Link.

This program is part of Tokyo’s larger initiative to promote tourism under the "2050 Tokyo Strategy" with the goal of further advancing the tourism industry.

Contact Information for Inquiries

For further inquiries, please reach out to the Tourism Department at the Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs, using the following contact number: 03-5320-4802.

By leveraging advanced technologies, Tokyo aims not only to revitalize its tourism sector but also to set a benchmark for the global tourism landscape, making it a compelling destination for visitors from around the world.