TRAPOL

TRAPOL G.K. operates as a specialized travel and regional revitalization company, initially established as an internal venture of the Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO) group. Founded in October 2019 by Kengo Moriwaki, the firm originated from KEPCO's "Kanden Start-up Challenge" program, reflecting Mr. Moriwaki's vision to create deeper, more meaningful travel experiences. His journey began within the corporate structure, where he developed and successfully pitched the concept, leading to the company's formation.

The core of TRAPOL's business is a platform that connects travelers with "local friends," facilitating authentic cultural immersion beyond conventional tourism. This service allows travelers to experience destinations through the eyes of residents, visiting local spots and engaging in daily life. The company's business model is twofold: it generates revenue by creating and selling unique travel and experience content, and it provides regional revitalization consulting services to municipalities and local businesses. This includes developing over 100 distinct travel products, such as uninhabited island survival tours in Okinawa and unique art-installation saunas.

Initially, the service focused on connecting Japanese travelers with locals in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, but has since expanded its operations primarily within Japan. A significant milestone occurred in June 2025, when the tourism and inbound services company Rashinban Inc. acquired a majority stake in TRAPOL. This strategic partnership aims to scale TRAPOL's operations and enhance its experiential content by leveraging Rashinban's extensive guide network and management resources, while TRAPOL continues to operate under its existing brand and leadership. The company also engages in technology-driven solutions, such as an AI-powered ride-sharing service in Hakone, developed in collaboration with KEPCO to address local transportation challenges and promote sustainable tourism.

Keywords: regional revitalization, experiential travel, local tourism, travel content creation, tourism consulting, inbound tourism, authentic travel, cultural immersion, community-based tourism, sustainable tourism, Japanese travel market, local guide platform, unique tours, adventure travel, art installations, travel technology, corporate venture, Kengo Moriwaki, Rashinban Inc., Kansai Electric Power, travel experience design, local friend matching