The Sapporo region is set to launch a groundbreaking trial service aimed at alleviating the burdens of tourism logistics, enhancing both convenience for travelers and reducing congestion at public transport hubs. Starting February 4 until February 11, 2025, tourists departing from New Chitose Airport can check their luggage at JR Noboribetsu Station, allowing them to explore the area hands-free.
This innovative initiative spearheaded by All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines (JAL), and Hokkaido Airport involves partnerships with local authorities and other stakeholders. Travelers will be able to store their luggage at the JR Noboribetsu Station tourism exchange center, utilizing QR code technology to streamline the process. The checked baggage will then be securely transported to the corresponding airport for travelers to retrieve upon arrival at their destination.
According to Kazuo Mizuno, Chairman of the Next-Generation Airport Technology Research Association, "By allowing people to part from their luggage, we can minimize inconvenience to local residents, which I think is one achievement of this project." This sentiment reflects the dual purpose of the trial, which not only supports tourism but also considers the impact on local communities.
The logistics are straightforward: upon arriving at the station, travelers will use their smartphones to scan their boarding pass QR codes at designated kiosks to check their bags. After handing off their luggage, the bag will be routed via Yamato Transport to New Chitose Airport, where it will undergo the necessary security checks before being placed onboard the same flight as the passenger. Those who opt to use this service will pay 2,000 yen per bag, ensuring affordable access to this convenience.
With the tourism sector grappling with the challenges brought about by overtourism, the trial's timing is significant. Mizuno noted, "Travelers can enjoy sightseeing and shopping hands-free, which we hope will lead to increased consumption." This initiative aims to support local economies by making it easier for visitors to explore without the encumbrance of large suitcases.
The service operates for about eight days, focusing on evening flights after 4 pm from New Chitose, covering approximately 40 domestic flights from JAL and ANA. The feedback and data garnered from this trial will be pivotal. Mizuno expressed hopes for the trial's success, stating, "I believe we can significantly alleviate congestion by allowing people to let go of their bags. We want to see how well it is used and whether this business model is sustainable for the future."
Traveling without luggage has the potential not only to improve the visitor experience but may also decrease congestion at rail and bus facilities as well as airport counters. If successful, the service could pave the way for more widespread adoption of luggage pre-check systems at airports across Japan.
This trial project exemplifies the growing trend of integrating technology to promote seamless travel experiences for tourists, striving to balance visitor access with the needs of local infrastructure. With local stakeholders actively engaging to promote sustainable tourism practices, the Sapporo region's forward-thinking approach could serve as a model for other tourist-heavy locations grappling with similar challenges.