Odakyu Electric Railway Introduces "Shuwa Link" at 16 Stations on April 16, 2026, Facilitating Sign Language Communication – A First in the Railway Industry

Odakyu Electric Railway Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinjuku, Tokyo; President: Shigeru Suzuki) announced the introduction of "Shuwa Link," a service provided by the Nippon Foundation Telephone Relay Service, on April 16, 2026 (Thursday). This service will be available at 16 Odakyu Line stations and the company's website inquiry desk to facilitate smooth communication with customers experiencing hearing or speech difficulties. The selected stations are equipped with cameras and remotely operable station equipment, enabling remote staff to provide guidance while monitoring the customer's situation. This marks the first such initiative in the railway industry. Previously, communication with customers with hearing or speech difficulties primarily relied on written exchanges, with frequent requests for sign language support. "Shuwa Link" allows customers to connect with a sign language interpreter via a smartphone screen, who then relays the customer's needs to a remote Odakyu staff member. This system ensures more accurate and seamless guidance for customer inquiries and requests. To use the service at stations, customers can simply scan a QR code displayed near ticket gates with their smartphone, connecting them directly to a sign language interpreter without requiring prior registration or complex procedures; only internet communication fees apply. The service can be used for various needs, from ticket purchases and fare adjustments to urgent situations like feeling unwell. Additionally, "Shuwa Link" will be accessible from the company's website, which already features a chatbot inquiry system, allowing customers to make sign language inquiries from home or on the go. Odakyu Electric Railway is committed to creating a "railway where everyone can travel with peace of mind." The company has continuously worked to enhance accessibility through barrier-free facilities and improved staff support. Moving forward, Odakyu will continue to leverage digital technology and collaborate with external organizations to provide services that better meet customer needs. The introduction details for "Shuwa Link" are as follows: 1. Introduction Date: April 16, 2026 (Thursday). 2. Service: (1) Service Name: Telephone Relay Service "Shuwa Link." (2) Provider: Nippon Foundation Telephone Relay Service. (3) Service Overview: A service that enables real-time two-way communication via telephone between people with hearing/speech difficulties and others, with sign language interpreters translating "sign language" and "voice." (4) Official Website: https://www.nftrs.or.jp/news/fy2025/im20250411. 3. How to Use: (1) Access "Shuwa Link" via QR code at stations or banner on the company website. (2) Video call function starts, enabling two-way communication with Odakyu staff via a sign language interpreter. *Waiting time for connection to staff via interpreter may occur. *Station QR code access is limited to Odakyu Line guidance. *No prior registration. *Reception Hours: Station QR code inquiries: First train to last train; Website inquiries: 9:00 - 16:50. 4. Fee: Free (only internet communication fees borne by customer). 5. Introduction Locations: (1) Stations (16 total): Minami-Shinjuku, Umegaoka, Yurigaoka, Satsuki-dai, Kurokawa, Haruhino, Karakida, Tamagawa-Gakuenmae, Kaisei, Kayama, Tomizu, Hotaruda, Ashigara, Higashi-Rinkan, Minami-Rinkan, Hon-Kugenuma. *QR codes will be installed near ticket gates. *Writing boards will continue to be available at all stations. (2) Company Website: Customer Center link -> https://www.odakyu.jp/help/ (select banner with Shuwa Link logo).