Kotoden to launch Japan's first digital ticket machines

Kotoden (Takamatsu Kotohira Electric Railroad) and Lecip have announced the launch of a “Kotoden Digital Ticket Machine” starting September 1, 2026. This initiative marks a first for regional railways in Japan, as the company will phase out physical automatic ticket machines at most unmanned stations in favor of a web-based mobile ticketing system.

The move aims to address the high costs associated with maintaining and replacing aging physical ticket machines, which pose a significant management challenge for regional rail operators. The new system utilizes Lecip’s “QUICK TRIP Ticket” technology, allowing passengers to purchase tickets via a web browser by scanning a QR code at the station. No dedicated app download is required.

To prevent fraud and incorrect purchases, the system uses station-specific QR codes that restrict ticket purchases to the specific station being visited. The service supports seven languages to accommodate international tourists. Passengers present their digital tickets on their smartphone screens to staff, similar to traditional paper tickets. For those without smartphones, Kotoden will continue to allow fare payments directly to staff or via collection boxes.