Tourism JR West introducing new sightseeing train

[thomas]

JR West has unveiled plans for its new sightseeing train scheduled to enter service in autumn 2024. The train will initially operate on a route between Tsuruga Station (Fukui Prefecture) and Kinosaki-Onsen Station in Toyooka (Hyogo Prefecture). Later, the service will be extended to other routes in other areas. The name of the new train has not been decided yet.

All photos: JR West​

With the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line's extended section between Kanazawa and Tsuruga stations set to open in spring that year, the company is hoping to attract passengers from afar to see a rebound in tourist numbers, which have plummeted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. JR West said it will spend 480 million yen ($3.5 million) to remodel a KiHa 189 series Hamakaze express train to offer the new excursion service. The three-car train will be equipped with just 54 seats situated away from each other to provide a spacious feeling. In addition to box seats and private compartments, there will also be an open space for passengers to enjoy traditional performing arts, local gourmet guides and other events. The exterior of the train will be finished in reddish black and feature golden ivy, while the interior will be themed on trees and flowers to create an exquisite ambience.

JR West unveils plans for a new sightseeing train set to run in ’24 | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis

 

[Grandpa Frank]

Thomas might work for a good name.