Shinjuku Gyoen to Test Credit Card Entry from August

Taiwan’s tourism operators and digital payment providers should pay attention to the ticketless credit card entry trial at Shinjuku Gyoen. This initiative reflects Japan’s push toward digitalization and internationalization in tourism, offering valuable insights for Taiwan’s scenic spot management and payment integration.

The Ministry of the Environment has installed credit card touch payment terminals at Shinjuku Gyoen, starting a trial of ticketless entry from August 12, expected to last until fiscal 2026. This pilot program aims to simplify the entry process through digital means and improve convenience for international visitors, marking a concrete step in Japan’s digital transformation of tourism.

For Taiwan readers, this means that scenic spots may increasingly move toward paperless and mobile payment integration. Post-pandemic, contactless payments and digital tickets are in higher demand. If Taiwan’s tourism industry can proactively adapt, it will enhance visitor experience and operational efficiency.

Japan has previously experimented with similar systems, such as credit card entry at museums in Tokyo. These trials primarily aim to improve convenience for inbound tourists and strengthen management through digitization. The results of Shinjuku Gyoen’s pilot will likely influence whether other scenic spots in Japan follow suit.

Going forward, key metrics such as participation numbers, payment success rates, and visitor satisfaction should be closely monitored. If the trial proves successful, the Ministry of the Environment may expand the system to other national attractions, further advancing Japan’s digital tourism strategy.

This experiment is not just a technical test, but also a symbolic shift in Japan’s tourism policy. For Taiwan, it offers an opportunity to observe Japan’s digital transformation and international tourism strategy, and serves as a reference point for local industry adjustments.