Japan tourism sector adopts AI and fintech to boost productivity

The Japanese tourism sector is increasingly integrating advanced technologies to address labor shortages and enhance economic impact. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau will host a seminar on October 8 focused on how tourism businesses can utilize generative AI to improve productivity and operational efficiency.

A key case study for the seminar is Ebiyah, a century-old restaurant that has successfully implemented data analysis and digital tools. By using a visitor prediction system with over 90% accuracy, the establishment has optimized procurement, staffing, and marketing, leading to significant improvements in sales and profit.

In a separate discussion at the Booking.com Innovation Summit Japan 2026, industry leaders emphasized the critical role of fintech in revitalizing regional tourism. Rajiv Apania, Vice President of Payments and Fintech at Booking.com, noted that the company supports approximately 50 payment methods and 30 currencies, adding a new method nearly every month. The integration of diverse, cashless payment options is seen as essential for meeting Japan's goal of 60 million inbound travelers, as it reduces friction for international visitors and helps mitigate seasonal business risks by lowering cancellation rates through pre-payment options.