Yawata City to pilot TOCKLE micro-mobility to combat overtourism

BRJ Co., Ltd. will launch a demonstration experiment for ‘TOCKLE’, a next-generation micro-mobility three-wheel electric seat board, in Yawata City, Kyoto, starting October 16, 2026. The project has been selected by the Japan Tourism Agency to promote environmental improvements in tourist areas and prevent overtourism.

The initiative aims to address the lack of ‘last-mile’ transportation in Yawata City, where approximately 70% of the 1.82 million annual visitors concentrate at two specific locations: Iwashimizu Hachimangu and the Sewaritei district of Yodogawa River Park. By providing a sharing service for 20 electric vehicles, the project seeks to encourage visitors to explore dispersed historical and cultural resources, such as the Shokado Garden, thereby increasing stay durations and local consumption.

Safety features of the TOCKLE vehicles include geofencing technology to prevent entry into restricted areas and a strict policy of prohibiting nighttime operations to ensure user safety. The experiment is scheduled to run until February 15, 2027, with rental ports located at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Station, Sewaritei, Yawata City Hall, and the Shokado Garden/Museum.