Travel

Inside Look at the Future of Travel: The New Yakumo Express

OSAKA, Feb 11 (News On Japan) - The much anticipated preview of the new "Yakumo" limited express train was held at JR Osaka Station on Saturday, mesmerizing enthusiasts with its futuristic design.

On February 10th, rail enthusiasts and curious onlookers were treated to the first public viewing of the 273 series, the first new model for the Yakumo, which connects Okayama with Tottori and Shimane, in approximately 40 years. This event, organized before the train's official launch in April, saw an overwhelming interest, with about 22,600 applications for the 350 available spots—a testament to the public's excitement about the new rail experience.

JR West reported that the lucky attendees were delighted with the fresh seats and interior design. "It's so spacious! I love how big the windows are," one visitor remarked, capturing the airy and open feel of the train's design. Another attendee expressed admiration for the comfort levels, saying, "It's just amazing. The ability to stretch out like you're in a sleeper car is pretty rare."

Adding to the anticipation, JR West has planned to have a select group experience a test ride in March (note: applications for this event have already closed).

Source: MBS NEWS

JR West Develops Special Umbrella to Protect Passengers from Knife Attacks

JR West Japan has announced the development of a special umbrella designed to protect passengers and crew from attackers wielding knives or other weapons, with plans to equip train cars with these umbrellas.

Bus carrying Japanese tourists crashes in Turkey, 6 people hospitalized

The Japanese embassy in Turkey says six Japanese tourists were hospitalized with injuries on Thursday after their bus was involved in an accident in western Turkey. (NHK)

New Replica COVID Vaccine Sparks Controversy in Japan

Japan’s recent approval and rollout of a new "Replica Vaccine" for COVID-19 has triggered widespread public concern, with some businesses imposing entry bans on vaccinated individuals. The vaccine, which began regular administration in October, has faced backlash due to its ability to "self-replicate" in the body, raising anxiety about its safety.

Japan's Oldest Reactor Gets Approval to Operate 50+ Years

Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority has granted approval for Kansai Electric Power Company's Takahama Reactor No. 1 to operate for over 50 years, marking a first in Japan, reaching its 50th anniversary next month.

Japan Faces 18 Trillion Yen Economic Loss Due to Sleep Deprivation

Japan is grappling with a severe sleep deprivation crisis, with economic losses estimated at 18 trillion yen annually due to reduced productivity, according to a study by the RAND Corporation.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Uncover the Charm of Fukuoka Japan: Best-Kept Train Wandering the Countryside

What makes this Japanese train so special is the opportunity to savor a French course meal as you journey through the picturesque Japanese countryside.

Ibaraki Escapes Last Place in Attractiveness Ranking

The 'Prefectural Attractiveness Ranking,' which started in 2009, marked its 16th edition in 2024, with competition for the bottom rank a hot topic. This year, Ibaraki Prefecture, which ranked last in 2023, moved up two spots, overtaking Saitama Prefecture.

'Castle in the Sky' Emerges First Time This Season

As thick morning fog lifted, sunlight streamed through the distant mountain ranges, revealing Echizen Ono Castle perched above a sea of clouds, built over 400 years ago by a close aide to Oda Nobunaga.

The TRUTH About OVERTOURISM in Japan

Japan's Streets are PACKED With Tourists, Over Tourism is running WILD! Or is it really? There has been a lot of news recently about this growing problem in Japan, but what is the reality on the ground in one of Japan's most popular cities, Kyoto? (Inaka Adventure)