- 14 Mar 2002
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Central Japan Railway, the operator of the Tokaido Shinkansen linking Tokyo and Osaka, is testing a chatbot to help international tourists use the high-speed rail line. The tool, called JRTok-AI, was developed by JR Tokai Information Systems, a JR Tokai subsidiary. Users can access it through a smartphone browser.
The system runs on a model built by a major technology company. Its responses draw on a database maintained by JR Tokai. The database compiles ticketing and fare rules published on the company's website. It reflects even minor updates. The chatbot answers questions about stations, ticket purchases, seating types and baggage rules. It also connects to train operation systems. That link provides the real-time location of a specific Shinkansen train.
While the accuracy of generative AI overall is improving, the issue of "hallucinations" -- where AI sometimes presents incorrect information as the correct answer -- remains. JR Central says it found instances of hallucinations when checking the generative AI service of a major IT company, such as incorrect information about whether trains' oversized luggage areas required a reservation. Information updated in real time, such as train status, requires users to perform steps before reaching search results. Because information is constantly updated, it is difficult for AI to learn.
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The system runs on a model built by a major technology company. Its responses draw on a database maintained by JR Tokai. The database compiles ticketing and fare rules published on the company's website. It reflects even minor updates. The chatbot answers questions about stations, ticket purchases, seating types and baggage rules. It also connects to train operation systems. That link provides the real-time location of a specific Shinkansen train.
Questions about delays and service cancellations can also be answered, making it useful for providing updates during natural disasters. For questions that are vague or imprecise, the AI assistant will initiate queries to narrow down and identify what the user wishes to know. "Which is the earliest train to Tokyo?" will prompt the chatbot to ask which station the rider will be boarding from and the estimated time of departure. The AI service is available in English, Chinese, Korean, French and Spanish. A pilot program targeting international visitors is currently underway at Tokyo's Shinagawa Station, lasting to mid-March.
While the accuracy of generative AI overall is improving, the issue of "hallucinations" -- where AI sometimes presents incorrect information as the correct answer -- remains. JR Central says it found instances of hallucinations when checking the generative AI service of a major IT company, such as incorrect information about whether trains' oversized luggage areas required a reservation. Information updated in real time, such as train status, requires users to perform steps before reaching search results. Because information is constantly updated, it is difficult for AI to learn.
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Japan bullet train operator tests multilingual chatbot for foreign tourists
AI assistant provides real-time information to navigate busy Tokyo-Osaka artery
Link:
The link above works only on mobile devices!