(Source : JR Kyushu Hotels & Resorts Inc.)
JR Kyushu Hotels & Resorts Inc. introduced the travel app “VERY,” developed by Active Values Inc., across 12 of its hotels and inns starting October 2024. Designed to enhance user convenience during their stay and bolster multilingual support, “VERY” requires no app download. Guests can simply scan a QR code installed within the facility using their smartphone. The app automatically adapts to the user’s device language, ensuring seamless usability for international visitors. With “VERY,” guests can access hotel facility guides, usage instructions, sightseeing information, and announcements, not only in their rooms but also while outside.
As part of its efforts toward digital transformation in tourism, the company implemented Active Values’ multilingual AI chatbot “talkappi CHATBOT” and chat-linked FAQ system “talkappi FAQ” in June of this year. These tools are being utilized to handle inquiries during the pre-travel phase. Moving forward, the company plans to enrich the content of “VERY,” aiming to further enhance user convenience and provide an even more comfortable lodging experience.
“VERY” delivers travel-related information tailored to the user’s device language, offering a one-stop solution for accessing hotel and local information and services. Supported languages include Japanese, English, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, and Korean. The app has been rolled out at 12 facilities operated by JR Kyushu Hotels & Resorts Inc., including THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA, THE BLOSSOM KYOTO, and JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Hakata Chuo.
Active Values Inc. provides a wide range of solutions for the tourism and hospitality industry, underpinned by its philosophy of “revitalizing communities through tourism and contributing to world peace through exchange.” Their offerings focus on “DX-driven efficiency,” “booking and sales,” and “marketing utilization of customer data.” By leveraging cutting-edge IT and AI technologies while upholding Japan’s traditional spirit of hospitality, the company addresses industry challenges and strives to enhance guest experiences.
JR Kyushu Hotels & Resorts Inc. was established on October 1, 2024, through the merger of four JR Kyushu Group companies. Operating 17 diverse hotels and inns in prime locations across Kyushu, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Okinawa, the company is committed to delivering hospitality rooted in local traditions, ensuring safety and security, and remaining a hotel chain of choice for its guests. Guided by its purpose, “Expanding happiness from hotels to the world through the spirit of hospitality within each individual,” the company continues to drive its business forward.