Face Recognition System for Visitors to Mt. Fuji Area Unveiled

October 29, 2020

Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Pref.- Japanese Railway firm Fuji Kyuko Co. showed to the media on Thursday a test of a face recognition system aimed at revitalizing tourism in the area around Mount Fuji in central Japan.

Using the system, the company plans to allow visitors to the area to enjoy the Fuji-Q Highland amusement park in the city of Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, operated by Fuji Kyuko, and ride a tour bus around Lake Kawaguchi in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi, as well as a ropeway in the same town that offers a panoramic view of the Mount Fuji area, without buying paper tickets.

Japanese electronics maker Panasonic Corp. <6752> provided its technologies for the project.

People whose faces are registered on the system will not be asked to get tickets.

A demonstration will be held between Nov. 7 and the end of March next year, according to the company.

Fuji Kyuko introduced a face recognition system at Fuji-Q amusement park in 2018.

Through the demonstration, the company hopes to promote digital transformation, or DX, in the tourism sector. DX is aimed at innovating existing systems through the use of digital technologies.

The company aims to expand the use of the face recognition system, for example, at accommodation facilities and for taking a taxi, in the future.

Shingo Katsuyama, a Fuji Kyuko official, said the company hopes that the face recognition system, "will allow visitors to enjoy the area around Mount Fuji freely and encourage them to stay for a few days." Jiji Press