Japan is hoping to make train travel safer – and more fun – by deploying a team of robots at stations that can catch criminals – and can give passengers a helping mechanical hand.

The robots will be programmed to understand a variety of languages to accommodate foreign visitors. Other robots will be designed to clean floors and otherwise tidy up the train stations.

Security robots that can detect shoplifters are a key part of the new initiative.

Last month, East Japan Railways announced the creation of JRE Robotics Station, a company that will design the new robotic team.

The robots will help travellers navigate train stations and get to their trains on time.

Other robots will be designed to carry luggage – mainly assisting travellers with disabilities, not merely those who hate to lug around heavy suitcases.

JR East also manages a number of shopping centres and hotels in Japan. So, its RoboCops are expected to be on duty at other JR properties as well.

The company has yet to announce when the robots will be in place to serve travellers.

But one thing is certain – train travel in Japan is set to become an unforgettable experience.