JAL and AQTIA Collaborate to Launch “TOKYO SAUNIST,” a New Service Integrating Sauna and Technology
Joint Release
AQTIA Inc.
Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.
February 20, 2023
Release Overview
1. Utilizing high-precision sensor technology to accurately monitor foot traffic, providing real-time visualization of congestion levels within the sauna room.
2. Building an environment that enables valuable analysis, such as congestion leveling and congestion forecasting, by providing big data insights.
AQTIA Inc. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; President: Yukio Kitano) and Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President: Yuji Akasaka) have jointly developed the “Sauna Room Real-Time Occupancy Counting System” utilizing high-precision sensor technology and cloud infrastructure. This system provides real-time data on sauna room congestion and offers big data analytics to both sauna facility operators and users through the new service “TOKYO SAUNIST.”
Overview of the New Service
“TOKYO SAUNIST” employs a 3D-LiDAR sensor installed at the entrance of the sauna room to accurately detect human presence and aggregates this data in the cloud. The collected data visualizes real-time congestion levels within the sauna room, providing applications for both users and facility managers. This cloud-based service is currently patent-pending.
Since around 2017, Japan has experienced a significant sauna boom, particularly among individuals in their 20s and 30s residing in the Tokyo metropolitan area. It is estimated that over 14 million enthusiasts nationwide use saunas at least once a month. In response, JAL has been promoting “JAL Sa-Tabi” since 2019, offering tour packages, merchandise, web media, and regional promotions centered on sauna tourism, thereby contributing to the expansion of the sauna market.
Leveraging our accumulated strengths and insights in the sauna market, we are launching a new service aimed at creating value beyond JAL’s traditional business domains and achieving synergy through collaboration with other companies. Through co-creation between JAL Innovation Lab(3), which focuses on business development centered around digital technology, and AQTIA, known for its expertise in technological innovation, we are delivering solutions tailored to the sauna market.
Service Details
1. Service Name: TOKYO SAUNIST
2. Provided Services:
– Real-Time Monitor
– User Application
– Facility Manager Dashboard
3. Service Launch: Gradual rollout starting around April 2023; user app available from autumn 2023.
4. Pre-Website: https://www.tokyo-saunist.com
Development Background
The rapid and sustained growth of sauna users has led to congestion in popular facilities, especially in urban areas. Real-time visualization of sauna room occupancy allows users to choose optimal times and facilities, while operators can utilize big data to balance congestion and optimize staff allocation.
Service Features
• Real-Time Monitor:
The TOKYO SAUNIST Real-Time Monitor is installed in front of the sauna room and in outdoor areas, displaying the real-time occupancy of the sauna room down to each individual. This allows sauna users to check for available space from outside the sauna room, preventing situations where they enter only to find it full. By placing monitors in outdoor areas as well, users can better time their entry into the sauna, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• User Application:
The TOKYO SAUNIST app (iOS/Android), scheduled for release in autumn 2023, enables users to check real-time sauna room occupancy from anywhere—at home, work, or on the go. This allows users to choose less crowded facilities or adjust the timing of their visits. Additionally, the app’s login feature will let users register their favorite facilities and includes an automatic sauna usage log function linked to location data.
• Facility Manager Dashboard:
The TOKYO SAUNIST Dashboard is a web application service designed for administrators of bath facilities implementing TOKYO SAUNIST. It enables real-time monitoring of user numbers and offers detailed analytics with features such as daily and weekly summaries, access to historical data, and raw data downloads in CSV format. Additionally, we plan to gradually expand the service with features like event registration, coupon issuance, and user notification functions.
The service was developed using a lean startup approach, creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) followed by a prototype (beta version). Through simulations and verifications, the service was refined for launch.
Furthermore, the following companies have expressed their support for the concept of this service and provided various forms of assistance in its development.
With the launch of this service, JAL and AQTIA will continue to promote its adoption in bath facilities facing operational challenges, while simultaneously developing and refining additional services to deliver solutions that truly meet the needs of bath facility operators and sauna users—providing the kind of service they’ve been looking for.
Looking ahead, JAL envisions integrating this service with its existing “JAL Sa-Tabi” travel offerings, as well as with various other JAL Group initiatives, creating synergies that extend across business domains.
Comments from Supporting Development Partners
Unique Song, Country Manager, Alibaba Cloud Japan Services K.K.
“We are very pleased to have supported JAL in the development of the ‘TOKYO SAUNIST’ service. We hope that Alibaba Cloud’s cutting-edge technology will contribute to JAL’s stable service delivery and enhance the experience for bath facility operators and sauna users alike.”
Kenichi Kobayashi, CMO, Samsung Electronics Japan Co., Ltd.
“Congratulations on the launch of the new service, ‘TOKYO SAUNIST.’ We are truly honored to have been involved in the development of this valuable new service. We look forward to continuing to collaborate on even greater initiatives in the future.”
Kenichi Ando, Director, Market Product Management Division, FA Sales Department 2, SICK K.K.
“Congratulations on the launch of TOKYO SAUNIST. We are truly honored that our products play a game-changing role in creating new value within this innovative business service. We look forward to seeing our sensors become even more integral to people’s daily lives through this service.”
Ryuta Suzuki, President, Thermae-Yu Co., Ltd.
“Congratulations on the release of this service. As a facility operator, congestion in the sauna has been a significant challenge, and a service that provides real-time visibility into the number of people is truly innovative. I also find it highly appealing that the accumulated data can be used to optimize operations, such as staff placement and the timing of rouryu sessions.”
About AQTIA
AQTIA Inc. is a “co-creation and co-execution business incubation firm.” We collaborate closely with clients to support the creation of new businesses and the growth and expansion of existing ones. Our services encompass strategic planning, alliance formation, and the development and operation of business platforms, facilitating swift business formation in new markets and the establishment of a competitive position. For more information, please visit www.aqtia.co.jp.
About Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines (JAL), established in 1951, is a member of the oneworld® alliance, operating 241 aircraft and, as of January 2020, offering a network to 411 cities in over 60 countries through partnerships. Recognized as a “5-Star Airline” by Skytrax and “World Class” by APEX, JAL is known for its punctuality and service quality. Committed to providing the highest levels of safety and service, JAL aims to be the world’s most preferred airline. For more information, please visit www.jal.com.
Contact Information
AQTIA Inc. Public Relations Department
E-mail: info@aqtia.co.jp