Japan has deployed robots to work in Tokyo Metro stations to help tourists in preparation for the 2020 Olympic Games.

The 1.8-meter-tall robot named Arisa, created by Japanese tech company Aruze Gaming and Chicago-based THK, will give travelers directions and show them the way to the restrooms.

Tokyo is facing an influx of millions of spectators for the forthcoming international event which they will host for the second time in history since 1964.

An aging population and low birth rate has resulted in a national labor shortage, prompting the need for multilingual* Arisa to guide the swarm of foreign tourists.

The wide-eyed robot is accompanied with a touch screen monitor and can speak Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. Not only can she tell visitors about the local tourist attractions and how to change trains, but also she isn’t camera shy and will pose for photos if asked.

Arisa has already impressed residents with her quick and easy interface. “The robot is a next-generation robot that responds more smoothly and quickly than I imagined. The user interface is especially great,” said Kyosuke Tanaka, director of Japan Sports Hub.

Arisa has completed two test runs at the Ueno-Okachimachi and Tochomae Metro stops at the end of last year.

Officials say that they are preparing for a second trial at another five stations in February to streamline service amid the throngs of visitors.

Since most Olympic volunteers are not familiar enough with the city layout and Metro system to effectively help visitors, Arisa’s artificial intelligence* will fill in the gaps to offer seamless support.(SD-Agencies)