Travel

New Sleeper Express to Connect Tokyo and Aomori by 2027

TOKYO, Jun 11 (News On Japan) - JR East has announced plans to introduce a new overnight limited express train connecting the Tokyo metropolitan area with the northern Tohoku region, including Aomori and Akita, by spring 2027. The new train will feature all-private rooms and a fully flat layout, with some cabins accommodating up to four passengers.

The train, notable for its distinctive two-tone blue design, is being developed by refurbishing existing express rolling stock. It will offer private rooms in various configurations, including spacious single rooms and premium rooms for two passengers. All rooms will allow passengers to lie fully flat, emphasizing comfort for long-distance travel.

A shared lounge area will also be available, where travelers can enjoy drinks and light meals at their leisure.

While the specific route and pricing have yet to be finalized, JR East plans to operate the service between the Tokyo area and destinations such as Aomori and Akita. The company aims to begin service in spring 2027.

At a regular press conference on June 11th, President Kise stated, "We want to create a train that makes long-distance travel enjoyable and comfortable."

Source: TBS

Mt. Fuji Sets Up Permanent Gate

A permanent gate has been installed at the Yamanashi Prefecture entrance to the fifth station of Mt. Fuji, unveiled on June 13. Authorities hope the new measure will help address the ongoing problem of reckless climbing attempts.

Otaru Redevelopment Plan Effectively Frozen

A former resort area in the Otamoi district of Otaru City has hit a major roadblock in its redevelopment plans. "This is the Otamoi coastline," explained a Ryugu Cruise guide. "There used to be a building here called Ryugukaku, a high-end restaurant. It's hard to believe."

Japan Approves Pension Reform

The Pension System Reform Law was passed and enacted at the Upper House plenary session on June 13th with majority support from the Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito, the Constitutional Democratic Party and others.

Holding an Umbrella While Cycling to be Outlawed

Riding a bicycle while holding an umbrella, a practice often seen during the rainy season in Japan, poses significant danger as it becomes more frequent with the arrival of June rains.

Japan Moves to Grant Science Council Autonomy

The Diet has passed legislation to establish the Science Council of Japan as an independent corporation, separating it from direct government control.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

Ancient Giant Cedar Discovered in Yakushima's Forest

A giant Yakusugi cedar on Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, estimated to be over 1,000 years old and rivaling the island's famous Jomon Cedar with a trunk circumference of about 16 meters, has been revealed and filmed for the first time by JNN cameras.

Mii-dera: Japan's Grand Temple with National Treasures and Historic Architecture

Mii-dera, located in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, spans a vast area equivalent to about ten Koshien Stadiums. Known for the "Evening Bell of Mii," one of Japan's three most famous bells, the temple grounds also house numerous national treasures and important cultural properties.

Legionella Contamination Worsens at Expo Site

At the Osaka-Kansai Expo site, Legionella bacteria have been detected at levels 20 times higher than the safety standard, but subsequent countermeasures failed to curb the outbreak, with the bacteria further multiplying to 53 times the standard.

New Sleeper Express to Connect Tokyo and Aomori by 2027

JR East has announced plans to introduce a new overnight limited express train connecting the Tokyo metropolitan area with the northern Tohoku region, including Aomori and Akita, by spring 2027. The new train will feature all-private rooms and a fully flat layout, with some cabins accommodating up to four passengers.

Sacred Tree Carried into Ise Inner Shrine Ahead of 2033 Shikinen Sengu

A ceremonial ritual to carry sacred timber into the Ise Grand Shrine’s Inner Shrine was held on June 9th in preparation for the next Shikinen Sengu in 2033, when the shrine buildings are reconstructed once every 20 years.

Okinawa Sees Earliest End to Rainy Season

Okinawa has entered summer faster than ever before. The Japan Meteorological Agency announced around 11 a.m. on June 8th that the region is believed to have ended its rainy season—marking the earliest such declaration since records began in 1951.

Exploring Tokyo's Greatest Temple, Sensoji - 4K HDR

Wandering around Tokyo's most famous temple, Senso-ji, in the Asakusa district from day to night. As the sun sets on Japan, the temple and pagoda are illuminated, and is a beautiful sight with Tokyo Skytree lit up in the background. For sure one of my favorite even spots to wander around and take in the sights. (VIRTUAL JAPAN)

Wild Deer Spotted in Central Sapporo

A wild male deer was seen roaming through a residential neighborhood in Chuo Ward, Sapporo, on the morning of June 6th, prompting police to issue warnings to residents.

< 2 3 4 5 >