Japanese come up with nifty tourism device...

Imagine never being lost in a new town again or learning about historical monuments on a self guided tour or even something like information on what is the restaurant in front of you famous for...If you read this AP News article, the Japanense have come up with an innovative way of using chip technology to do just that:

During a tour, reporters wearing the earphones and a portable media player strolled around the shopping district. The player, which is worn around the neck, also features a small video screen.

In front of Mitsukoshi Department Store, a voice explained how a statue of a lion has long been the store's trademark. Cross the street to Nissan Motor Co. (NSANY)'s showroom, and the gadget automatically switched to a chip at the showroom.

"Welcome to Nissan Ginza gallery," says a woman who appears on the video screen.

By pushing buttons on the device, the user can see additional information, such as a map or a historical photo.

It's also stated that Japan intends to use this to assist the elderly, the blind and people who are handicapped navigate the streets of Japanese Cities, but I also think this would have great potential for tourism...