StoryHub and Tokyu's "common" App Partner to Transform Hidden Local Attractions into Valuable Stories with AI

StoryHub Inc. announced the start of a proof-of-concept for a new regional information distribution model in collaboration with "common," a local community app operated by Tokyu Corporation. The model combines AI-powered editing with the strength of the local community.

This experiment aims to build a system that delivers previously under-visualized and under-distributed local attractions and useful living information to those who need it in a more understandable and timely manner. This is achieved by using AI to collect, organize, and edit diverse information scattered throughout the region.

This initiative will further strengthen the dissemination of local charm within the "common" app, contributing to Tokyu's goal of creating a "lifestyle infrastructure platform" that supports various aspects of daily life tailored to each individual's lifestyle.

Background and Purpose of the Experiment

In recent years, the issue of "news deserts," where necessary local information is difficult to distribute adequately, has become a problem due to a shortage of local information providers, downsizing of communication systems, and changes in the revenue environment. This situation is spreading from rural to urban areas, creating a need for a new mechanism to deliver information about local attractions and daily life in a sustainable and appropriate manner.

AI is a powerful tool to solve this challenge. It can collect, organize, and edit diverse local information—such as resident posts, reviews, business communications, and local media articles—that was previously impossible to handle manually, transforming it into a format that is easy to deliver to the right people.

"common" is an app provided mainly along the Tokyu railway lines with four main functions: a "posting function" to share town information, a "transfer function" for used items, a "consultation function" for personal advice, and a "spot function" for users to map and share attractive places. With over 250,000 downloads (as of March 31, 2026) and 1 million communications in fiscal 2025, it forms a community that facilitates mutual help among residents.

StoryHub's mission is "to become a hub for co-creating valuable stories." The company develops and operates the "StoryHub Platform," a multi-product suite that supports the entire content lifecycle. It has provided services to over 150 media companies.

This experiment combines the community foundation built by "common" with StoryHub's AI technology and media expertise to establish a foundation for collecting, producing, and distributing locally-rooted information. By enabling users to receive information as something personally relevant, the project aims to create opportunities that make them "want to go out into the town" and "feel like participating in local activities."

Overview of the Experiment

Period: May 26, 2026 (Tue) to October 31, 2026 (Sat) (tentative) Area: Entire Tokyu Line area

Main Initiatives: 1. Utilizing User Posts: AI will organize and structure primary information such as reviews and photos posted by residents on "common" to be used in plans and articles. 2. Efficient Article Production: Professional editors will use AI to produce interview articles for local stores and events, significantly reducing costs and lead times. 3. Enhancing Information Comprehensiveness: AI will collect, organize, and score articles from about 100 external sources, such as local media and municipalities, and deliver them through "common's" personalized news function.