Tokyo-based Bespoke is launching Japan’s first artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot concierge BEBOT in two historical hotels of the Aomori prefecture: Tsuta Onsen and Hotel Jogakura.
The chatbot works through a combination of human chat services and AI that presents information for all of Japan from its many exclusive databases. Tourists needing help or inspiration are never left completely to their own devices.
“BEBOT can act like your friend in Japan,” Bespoke’s founder and CEO Akemi Tsunagawa says. Perhaps as close to a virtual friend as you can get. When the AI cannot answer, an English-speaking human is available to answer the question in real time.
From the hotel side, BEBOT is a never resting multilingual employee. On top of the local recommendations, BEBOT is uniquely tailored to each of the exclusive hotels to answer frequently asked questions (FAQ) – e.g. check out time – or make simple requests to the front desk. Just check in at one of the select hotels, and receive the token to activate the personalised concierge.
BEBOT is neither a human-only or purely text-messaging app, and does not require constant human support. Users can access via existing Facebook accounts, and BEBOT is quickly customisable for each establishment within an hour, sourcing Bespoke databases, and collecting valuable user data for cross-sales opportunities. Any size of hotel is eligible.
BEBOT is scheduled for release in major hotel chains from the US and Singapore.
With BEBOT, Bespoke aims to enable authentic local experiences by bringing people the top recommendations as rated by locals, or hidden-gems only those living nearby would know. Tourists can get directions, check restaurant reviews and immediately book restaurants without ever leaving the chat screen. Both travellers and hotels can spend more time on what truly matters – enjoying the amazing local experiences and providing services that only humans can.
