Jakarta, INTI – A tourist from Argentina went viral on TikTok after sharing his unique experience staying at a hotel in the heart of Tokyo. What made the experience remarkable wasn’t the view or service, but the fact that the hotel used robot receptionists, with no human staff in sight.
Within just two days, the video posted by TikTok user @manuenalemania had been viewed over 563,000 times, received more than 58,000 likes, and sparked hundreds of comments from users around the world.
Faced with Robot Receptionists: A Mix of Amazement and Confusion
At first, the tourist expected a regular check-in process. But he was stunned and fascinated to see two humanoid robots standing behind the reception desk. These robots one male and one female greeted guests, bowed politely following Japanese cultural norms, and guided the check-in process through an automated kiosk.
In his video, the tourist showed step-by-step how the check-in machine works, without any human involvement. From entering data, selecting a room, to receiving the room key, everything was handled through a fully automated, responsive robotic system.
Henn na Hotel: A Hotel Chain of the Future Without Human Staff
The hotel visited by the tourist is part of the Henn na Hotel chain, which now operates over 20 locations across Japan. Known as a pioneer in robot-driven hospitality, the hotel in Tokyo is a popular choice for international visitors.
According to The New York Post (June 30, 2025), these robots not only serve as greeters, but are also programmed to interact politely and respectfully, in line with Japanese customs. For example, their bowing gesture is carefully programmed to offer a familiar and culturally respectful experience to both local and international guests.
Between Technological Efficiency and Cultural Values
This experience has sparked wide discussion on social media and within the hospitality industry. Many are amazed by how automation is being integrated into hospitality, while others express concerns about its impact on human employment.
Behind the advanced technology, however, there is still a clear effort to preserve cultural etiquette. This demonstrates that innovation doesn’t always erase tradition it can complement it, creating a more modern and meaningful experience.
Conclusion: Technology Can Reshape Hospitality, but Human Touch Still Matters
Having robot receptionists in a Tokyo hotel may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie. Yet this video proves that the future has arrived and is actively being tested. While this shift brings efficiency and novelty, the real challenge ahead is ensuring that technology can still connect on an emotional and human level.
Staying at such a hotel isn’t just about high-tech features it’s also about how people respond to this major transformation in the service industry.
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