JAPAN TODAY



 

JR Central says it will conduct trials of artificial intelligence-operated language services at JR Shinagawa Station in Tokyo for foreign tourists traveling on its Tokaido shinkansen bullet trains.

In the trial lasting from Dec 15 to mid-March next year, visitors will be able to access a dedicated site via smartphone by scanning a QR code displayed at the station.

An AI chatbot will provide details on service operations and information such as how to purchase tickets and handle large luggage items.

Named "JRTok-AI," the service will support English, Chinese, Korean, French, and Spanish. It will also feature location-based information and provide English commentary on the history and culture of the areas the train passes through.

"Based on the results of the trial, we will consider enhancing information and expanding the scope of services provided," JR Central said.