[Difficult] Is unmanned operation really possible in Nagoya? The hurdles are increasing with the 7 law revision

The trend toward automation in the accommodation industry

In recent years, the hotel and inn industry has been facing a labor shortage and rising labor costs.
The number of businesses considering introducing unmanned operations and unmanned front desks is rapidly increasing.
Many people think, "Wouldn't it be possible to reduce manpower by installing unmanned check-in machines?"
In reality, legal and regulatory requirements are strict, making it extremely difficult to operate a facility completely unmanned.

Identity verification rules coming into effect in April 2025: Introducing ICT equipment alone is not enough

In Nagoya City, new rules for "alternative entrance counter equipment" came into effect in April 2025,
Identity verification can be done in two ways:

1. ICT identity verification conducted by employees using video cameras
2. Self-service check-in machine + facial recording verification

At first glance, it may seem like "unmanned operation has become easier to achieve," but in reality,

• Approval required at the time of stay
• A system for sharing guest identification information in advance is essential
  →It is necessary to link personal identification information with the PIN number or QR code issued by the business operator.
• Ensure that guest lists and passports are checked

There are conditions such as these, and simply introducing ICT equipment is not enough to meet the laws and regulations.

Major obstacles to unmanned operation: entrance/exit management and emergency response

When it comes to realizing an unmanned hotel, facility management and emergency response are particularly difficult.

Entrance and exit management issues

• Locking structures are required for guest-only areas
  →It would be ideal if the elevator could be operated only with the key held by the guest.
• Entrances and exits must be constantly monitored or recorded by video cameras.
  →In particular, recordings must be able to be saved for more than one month.

In other words, a major issue is how to check the comings and goings of guests and non-guests.

Emergency response challenges

• In the case of unmanned vehicles, they must be able to respond within 10 minutes (means of transportation is not important).
• Communication equipment and manuals must be installed in guest rooms.

The standards for communication equipment and manuals are as follows:

Construction standards for communication equipment

The device must be prepared by the sales representative.
→ In other words, we will install QR codes in the guest rooms,
　Guests can scan the code on their smartphones and send it to staff (including those in remote locations).
　There is no approved method of contact.
⇒ "Changes to the structure and facilities of the guest room will be necessary" or "Devices will need to be prepared"
　There are a lot of business owners who are worried about this.

Manual Standards

Instructions on how to operate the communication device must be included.
This can be done either on paper or digitally.
　However, at a minimum, the document must be written in Japanese.

Individual explanations to surrounding communities - a necessary procedure when introducing unmanned operations

When introducing unmanned operations, not only do you need a new hotel business license,
Even if you are notified of a change in business operations from manned to unmanned,
Individual explanations to surrounding areas are required.

Scope of explanation

This applies to all residents of buildings within 20 metres of the accommodation site.
If the property is an apartment building, advance explanation must be given to all residents.

Explanation method

• In principle, explanations will be given face-to-face
• Keep a record of what has been done

This individual explanation is not just a formal procedure.
This is an important process for gaining local understanding of unmanned hotels and inns.
If there is insufficient explanation or incomplete records, there is a risk that your business license or business change notification will not be approved.

In other words, to advance unmanned operations, it is not just "capital investment" that is required.
It is essential to provide a thorough explanation to local residents and respond in good faith.

For procedures related to operating an unmanned hotel in Nagoya City, consult with experts.

In Nagoya City, unmanned hotel operation requires not only the installation of equipment, but also the clearing of strict requirements based on laws, regulations, and ordinances.
From preliminary preparations to consultations with the government and interactions with local residents, there are numerous situations that require specialized knowledge.

With expert support, you can ensure you obtain the necessary permits and licenses.

When automating accommodation facilities, it is necessary to meet a wide range of requirements, not only in terms of system implementation, but also in areas such as managing entrances and exits, establishing emergency response systems, and providing individual explanations to surrounding residents.

In reality, attempting to handle these matters solely within one's own company carries significant risks due to the difficulty of interpreting laws and regulations and the complexity of the procedures involved.

Our organization has experts well-versed in travel and accommodation industry licensing applications, providing reliable support based on the Hotel Business Act and various regulations.

Companies considering transitioning to unmanned operations or opening a new business should definitely consider our services for the travel and accommodation industry.https://www.shigyo.co.jp/search_post/travel-accommodation/）よりご相談ください。
We will propose appropriate countermeasures tailored to your specific situation.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　(Signed by Kato Naohisa)