This video, titled "Trying the STAR ROAD special make with Akira Iida and Daijiro Inada ｜Full Throttle on the Winding Road and Nighttime Street Driving in the 30Z!" (飯田章 と 稲田大二郎 の STAR ROAD 特製 極上30Z で ワインディング全開走行 ＆ 夜のストリート爆走), was released by "VIDEO OPTION." Akira Iida, one of Japan's leading racers, and Daijiro Inada, a car tuning commentator, test drive the 30Z tuned by STAR ROAD and introduce the ride quality. This is a fascinating video that allows you to enjoy the amazing techniques of the racers. If you want a Japanese car, but don't know which one to buy, we recommend checking out this video! Even if you're not planning to buy a car, check out the video to get a taste of what it's like to drive a Japanese car! It's an action packed video that's well worth the watch!

Tokyo Bay Area's Yakatabune This video, titled “Yakatabune Funasei Business Overview Video Shinagawa（屋形船　船清　事業紹介動画　品川）” is produced by AllMovieJapan, and introduces the Yakatabune of the traditional Japanese restaurant Funasei in Shinagawa, Tokyo. Shinagawa Funasei is one of the most popular long-established restaurants in Tokyo. The elegant Yakatabune of Funasei often appears in Japanese TV shows and commercials. Enjoy a satisfying cruise on the extraordinary Yakatabune while savoring the delicious Japanese cuisine and admiring the splendid city lights. The video shows dishes served on the Yakatabune and the night view from the boat. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a cruise through Tokyo bay. Shinagawa Funasei Photo：Assorted tempura Shinagawa was once the most prosperous relay station on the Tokaido, and many people in the area were involved in the boating business. The Shinagawa Funasei is so popular that it was voted the best houseboat in a survey of the 30 most popular sightseeing boats on the water by a Ryoko Shimbun. Funasei’s Yakatabune has a kitchen to cook various Japanese dishes. You can enjoy not only the fresh sashimi, but also fresh tempura as well. Dishes of Shinagawa Funasei appear around 1:00 in the video. Having all sorts of Japanese food on the extraordinary ship is luxurious experience. Hop on Board the Yakatabune and Enjoy the Scenic Beauty of Tokyo! Photo：Fireworks and Yakatabune Shinagawa Funasei’s shared cruise is for a minimum of two people, but tourists can also enjoy a chartered boat in large groups as well. We recommend that you depart from Shinagawa for a fascinating excursion that takes you to some of Tokyo's most scenic spots, including Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Skytree, Sumida River, Eitai Bridge, and Odaiba. The Yakatabune has a viewing deck, so you can enjoy the beautiful views while taking in the refreshing sea breeze. You also have a chance to discover hidden tourist attractions during the cruise. The illuminated view of Tokyo seen from the Yakatabune is shown at 1:21 in the video. The sights of Tokyo that you see from the sea will show you a different side of the city. This area also has many instagrammable spots. Enjoy the Elegance of Japan's Seasons on the Yakatabune Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in the spring and tourists can enjoy the colorful autumn leaves in the fall. As Funasei’s Yakatabune takes the best tourist route for each season, you can enjoy dining with nothing but the finest views in the industry. Shinagawa Funasei’s Yakatabune is also ideal for cherry blossom and moon viewing, as well as various kinds of parties. During the hot summer, tourists can enjoy a cool evening while viewing fireworks from the boat. During winter, you can enjoy food on the boat with a horigotatsu. Summary of Yakatabune Source :YouTube screenshot You can enjoy a lovely cruise around all the lovely locations shown in the video with Yakatabune Funasei in Shinagawa, Tokyo. In the video, you can see overseas tourists enjoying the Yakatabune as well. The Yakatabune offers you a different way to enjoy your trip in Tokyo. Be sure to watch the video to get an idea of what a luxury experience it is. There are plans for lunch and dinner, small and large groups, and prices vary by selection. Note that some of the more popular plans require a reservation. ◆Funasei restaurant information◆ 【Address】1-16-8, Kitashinagawa, Shibagawa Ward, Tokyo 140-0001 【Access】A 13-minute walk from JR/Keikyu Shinagawa Station 【Price】Depends on plans/courses 【Hours】10 a.m. – 7 p.m. 【Parking】N/A 【Phone number】(+81) 03-5479-2731 【Official Website】Yakatabune Funasei – Traditional boat since the Edo period in Shinagawa, Tokyo https://www.funasei.com/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Funasei https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066854-d3452515-Reviews-Funasei-Shinagawa_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The Most Convenient Sightseeing Taxi Taxis fares vary by region and company, but in some cases, a pick-up fee is charged to pick you up at your current location as well as a waiting fee if you aren't at the taxi when it arrives. On the other hand, there are some taxi companies that offer discounts for long-distance trips, so you should make good use of them when sightseeing. Unlike other countries, Japan's taxis have developed in their own unique way. Toyota, one of the largest companies in the Japanese automotive industry, has developed a next-generation taxi called "JPN TAXI." This article will cover everything you need to know about JPN TAXI! Be sure to follow along with the video! What is JPN TAXI? Source :TOYOTA The difference between Toyota's "JPN TAXI" and a normal taxi is the model. When we think of Japanese taxis, we usually think of a sedan type, but the JPNTAXI is a tall wagon type. The height of JPNTAXI makes it comfortable for foreigners to ride in, as the cabin is spacious and easy to relax in. If you retract the seat, you can get in the car with a wheelchair and if you have a caregiver, they can sit next to you. In addition, JPN TAXI can also store large trunks vertically, making it possible to carry more luggage than a conventional taxi. JPN TAXI Interior Features Source :TOYOTA Do you ever worry about your smartphone or tablet running out of battery during business trips and when sightseeing? JPN TAXI has two USB terminals so you can charge your electronic devices on the go! You can make good use of the travel time to check your email, look up tourist attractions, and more, all without worrying about how much battery your device has. Other features include assisted grips that make it easier to get in and out of the cab. Toyota's JPN TAXI is also equipped with a newly-developed rear suspension that reduces sway even on rough terrain, and other subtle features. Check Out the JPN TAXI App! Source :TOYOTA You can also call a JPN TAXI through the dispatch app "JapanTaxi." Although it doesn't mean you'll 100% be able to ride in a JPN TAXI, it's very useful app for those who don't know the area or can't speak the language well, so we recommend downloading it before your visit to Japan. It's also possible to book a taxi in advance to make your visit to Japan as smooth as possible. Summary of Toyota's JPN TAXI If you still haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see what Toyota's next generation JPN TAXI is all about! Enjoy your trip to Japan with JPN TAXI!

Introducing the Self-Supporting Motorcycle, Honda Riding Assist The video "Video Explanation [Honda Riding Assist]" (動画で解説「Honda Riding Assist」), uploaded by "nikkeibp," introduces the the Honda Riding Assist developed by Japanese motorcycle manufacturer, Honda Motor Company. Enjoy the amazing features of the futuristic motorcycle! What is Honda Riding Assist? Source :YouTube screenshot Honda Riding Assist is a motorcycle that can stand on its own when running at low speeds and when stopped. The electric motor moves the front wheel from side to side to balance. From 0:17 in the video, you can see the motorcycle standing its own. The rider even stands up! This is an appication of the robotics technology and humanoid robotics research developed for ASIMO and other products. Normally, motorcycles lean in the direction the handlebar is turned, but the motorcycle developed by Honda leans in the opposite direction to counteract the imbalance. This is thanks to the movement of the front wheel. At low speeds, the front wheels slide forward and the ground contact point moves in front of the turning point. When driving normally, the center of gravity shifts in the direction the handlebar is turned, but at low speeds, the turning point is behind the contact point and the center of gravity shifts in the opposite direction to where the handlebar is turned. This makes it possible for the motorcycle to balance on its own. You can see an explanation from 0:34 in the video. There are currently no plans to sell the Honda Riding Assist. The Technology of the Honda Riding Assist Source :YouTube screenshot The Honda Riding Assist was developed to provide stability at low speed and to improve riding comfort and security during traffic and when stopped. By adopting "e-Drive" it is also eco-friendly and carbon-free, which is Honda's vision for the future. They announced the self-support "Honda Riding Assist" motorcycle at “CES2017” in January 2017, and in the same year, they announced “Honda Riding Assist-E” at the Tokyo Motor Show. Everyone was surprised to see the handle turning automatically. Walking With Honda Riding Assist Motorcycle Source :YouTube screenshot Because the motorcycle works without a rider, it can self-propel and move around as if going for a walk. At 2:16 in the video, you can see the bike following behind the rider. Technologies like this help to reduce the risk of accidents and lead to safer touring. The Future of the Honda Riding Assist With the self-support function introduced in the video, we could even begin to see motorcycles that can be enjoyed by those with disabilities and the elderly. e-Drive, the power train, is equipped with a large-capacity battery that can also function as a power source during disasters. Summary Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think of the Honda Riding Assist, a futuristic free-standing motorcycle developed by Honda Motors? The technology featured in this article has the ability to change the future of motorcycles forever. Currently, there are no plans to sell this motorcycle, but if they do, what do you think it'll go for? Keep your eyes peeled for news about the Honda Riding Assist! 【Official Website】Honda Riding Assist: https://global.honda/newsroom/news/2017/c170109eng.html

This video, titled "Railway｜Special Express Sleeper｜Blue Train｜Movie Source｜1975" (鉄道 寝台特急 ブルートレイン 映像資料昭和50年代２), was released by "That's Travel & Transportation" (That's旅行・交通). The Blue Train is a sleeper train that ceased service in 2015. The name "Blue Train" is a nickname and refers to the blue coach sleeper expresses that run at night. There was a time when the blue body of the train, which stood out in the twilight of night, had a unique atmosphere that was different from that of daytime trains and was admired by many children. Nowadays, you can't actually see the Blue Train in action, but there are facilities across Japan that preserve and display the Blue Train, and some of them are used as lodging. If you want to see the blue train in action, check out the video!

This video, titled "I stayed in the most expensive room on the sleeper train and it was too good to be true! Sunrise Seto/ Izumo: Tokyo Station to Himeji Station｜What's sleeping trains in Japan like?" (寝台列車の一番高い個室に泊まったら最高すぎた【サンライズ瀬戸・出雲：東京駅→姫路駅】｜What's sleeping trains in Japan like?(Tokyo→Himeji)), was released by "Kugaくが。[旧:がりれお]." "Sunrise Seto" is a sleeper train that connects Tokyo to Takamatsu and Izumo City. "Sunrise Seto" is the only night train in Japan that runs daily. There are five types of sleeping car rates: single deluxe, sunrise twin, single twin, single, and solo. The video shows what it's like to stay in the "Single Deluxe," the premium room with only six rooms available in total, for the most luxurious journey. The "Single Deluxe" rooms are equipped with a large bed, a washbasin and a desk, so you can relax and enjoy your journey in comfort.

This video, titled "[Full view] I took a ride on the E235 Yamanote Line Counter Clockwise (Tokyo to Tokyo) " (【4K60p超高画質前面展望】E235系山手線内回り（東京～東京）), was released by "NJR新日本旅客鉄道" (New Japan Railway). This is a video of the E235 Series Yamanote Line inner (counter clockwise) route, taken on August 14, 2018. The Yamanote Line inner route starts at Tokyo Station and proceeds towards Akihabara, Ueno, and Ikebukuro. This movie shows the inner route trains on the Yamanote Line. Normal trains go back and forth, but the Yamanote Line is a circular line. The train photographed is the new E235 Series TO21 train, which started operation in 2015. Be sure to watch the video and enjoy the view from the Yamanote Line!

This video, titled "[Luxury ANA First Class] A380 FLYING HONU "2" to Hawaii! Narita to Honolulu Flight Review [First Class Flight Review]" (【豪華ANAファーストクラス】A380 FLYING HONU "2号機"でハワイへ！成田→ホノルル飛行機レビュー【First Class Flight Review】), was released by "ちゃますけ / Chamasuke." The No.2 A380 Airbus FLYING HONU entered service on June 18, 2019 on the Narita-Honolulu route. The fuselage is emerald green, inspired by the beauty of Hawaii. The design of the nose of the aircraft is very charming with a smiling face of a sea turtle, which is considered a sacred creature in Hawaii. The video gives you a detailed look at what it's like to board a first class flight to Honolulu. In-flight facilities, food, and hospitality...it's all first class! Watching the video, you'll get a sense of the premium travel experience!

Introducing Train Suite Shikishima This video, titled "JR East, Inside the Luxury Sleeper Train, Shikishima," was released by "Jiji Tsushin Trending News." TRAIN SUITE Shikishima is a "cruise train" that departs and arrives at Ueno Station, which began service on May 1, 2017. The concept of the train is "深遊探訪" which roughly means "In Search of Fun." In recognition of its stylish atmosphere, the Shikishima received the "Good Design Best 100" award. What is Train Suite Shikishima? Source :YouTube screenshot The train is 10 cars long and, being that it's a luxury sleeper train, all of the furnishings in the guest rooms are top-notch. They focus on high-quality hospitality, with things like custom-made beech sofas, sunken kotatsu, and cypress baths. There is also a lounge car and a dining car, and the entire train is barrier-free. You can enjoy amazing views from the large window in the observation car. The cars are the E001 series, which were made exclusively for this train, and the exterior paint is a specially formulated "Shikishima Gold." The Rooms and Lounge on the Train Suite Shikishima Source :YouTube screenshot Cars 2, 3, 4, 8, and 9 on the Shikishima are suites, and Cars 1 and 10 are observation cars called VIEW TERRACE Kizashi and VIEW TERRACE Ibuki. You can see the inside of the suite cars from 2:12 in the video. Car 5, LOUNGE KOMOREBI, which can be seen from 0:53 in the video, is a lounge furnished with craftwork from Eastern Japan, reminiscent of trees and shrubs. Car 6 is a dining room with a chandelier where you can enjoy a luxurious course meal. Car 7 has a Shikishima suite and deluxe suite. The Cost To Ride the Train Suite Shikishima Train Suite Shikishima is a super-luxury train with rooms starting at ¥300,000 (~$3,000 USD) for 1 night. Shikishima is kind of a hotel-type train that can be used like a package tour, thus the steep price. Although most people won't have the chance to ride it, there are some events held and plastic models sold at the Railway Museum, so be sure to check these out as well. Summary of the Train Suite Shikishima Photo：Train Suite Shikishima Train Suite Shikishima, operated by JR East, is a luxury sleeper train that makes for an amazing ride. Staying on the train is expensive, but it's popular and tickets sell out incredibly quickly. The one-night course departs from Ueno, travels toward Koshu and Shinshu, and returns to Ueno. There are also 2 night and 3 night courses as well. The price for a 3 night course with a suite is ¥800,000 (~$8,000 USD). Be sure to check out the JR East official website for more information about operating dates, routes, and timetables for Train Suite Shikishima. Enjoy the feeling of luxury train travel through the video! 【Official Website】TRAIN SUITE SHIKISHIMA JE EAST JAPAN https://www.jreast.co.jp/shiki-shima/en/

Introducing "Dekotora" This video, titled "【HD】Story of the modified vehicles～The latest Dekotora Episode②～（【HD】改造車列伝 ～最新デコトラ編②～）," was produced by "Tenku Ranbuー Custom Videosー." It introduces Japan's colorful, customized "dekotora." The beauty of dekotora, with their characteristically flashy appearances, can be seen in the video. If you're interested, be sure to check it out! In this article, we'll introduce the charms of the shimmering dekotora trucks. Be sure to follow along with the video! A Look at Japan's Dekotora Source :YouTube screenshot Dekotora is an abbreviation for decoration truck (in Japanese truck is pronounced "torakku"). Dekotora are artsy trucks that are decorated with glittering electric illuminations, and a flashy exterior. Parts such as the front deck, visor, and front bumper, are especially flashy. Dekotora culture is a unique subculture in Japan, and due to its unique appearance it has also begun attracting attention from overseas. The beautiful trucks are made by decorating the exterior in a variety of ways, such as painting the body in flashy paint, adding electrical equipment such as lanterns and marker lamps, or adding aero parts made of chrome plating and stainless steel. At 2:02, you can see both the interior and exterior of a dekotora. The interior is decorated with stickers and other gadgets, and you can see the dedication of the owner to their vehicle. However, if you put too many decorations on the vehicle, there are times when it won't pass the vehicle inspection, so dekotora fanatics have to keep this in mind when designing their trucks. You can see a variety of unique dekotora on Instagram, or at events and gatherings. There are also plastic models, radio controlled dekotora, and the truck game “Bakuso Dekotora Legend” that you can purchase, so you can enjoy dekotora at home as well. There are different styles for decorating dekotora as well. Some categories are “Gundam Art,” “Modern Art,” “Kansai-style Art,” and “Retro Art.” The History of Japan's Dekotora Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Japan's dekotora is said to be from seafood transport trucks using stainless steel plates to fix the deterioration of the body. This deterioration was due to the effects of the snow-melting agents. The movie “Truck Guys” which was released in 1975, sparked a boom in popularity and many people began making dekotora. The famous vehicle "Ichiban boshi" which appeared in "Truck Guys," was turned into a plastic model and became very popular among children at the time. Unfortunately, the movie "Truck Guy" received complaints from the police due to its explicit depictions and the movie was discontinued. Because of this, the dekotorora craze slowly began to fade away. Currently, with movies such as "Dekotora Girl Nami" and "The Eagle of Dekotora," dekotora have once again gained public attention. Summary of Japan's Dekotora Source :YouTube screenshot In this video we showed, "【HD】Story of the modified vehicles～The latest Dekotora Episode②～,” produced by “Tenku Ranbuー Custom Videosー"; a video that introduces Japan's flashy dekotora trucks. Dekotora are decked out with beautifully illuminated electronics and paint, and their impressive appearance fascinates onlookers. These flashy dekotora go for a pretty penny, even used. Currently, dekotora are on the decline; However, videos of them on platforms such as Instagram, have garnered a lot of attention, so if you're interested, definitely check them out!

This video, titled "[4K] [airplane video] Airport Scenery in Japan｜Airport of Japan BGV" ([4k] [飛行機 動画] 日本の空港情景　Airport of japan BGV), was released by "Fairport." This video shows the seasonal scenery of 9 of Japan's airports. Airports are not just a place to board an airplane, but they are also popular as sightseeing spots because of their beautiful scenery. Narita International Airport and Itami Airport, which are introduced in the video, are especially popular for their beautiful night views, and we recommend checking them out. This video introduces 9 of Japan's beautiful airports, so give it a watch if you have time!

This video, titled "How to paint like a Flames / Fire flame pattern with candy paint ! / カスタムペイント," was released by "warriorz777." Some car enthusiasts like customizing the body of their car with cool paint jobs. In the video, the designer "flames," which uses the motif of flames gives a custom paint job with candy paint. Candy paint is a technique that allows the artist to create a transparent and glossy look like a ball of candy by adjusting the concentration and thickness of the film coating. The way the luster on the surface changes depending on the amount of light is just like candy itself. Take a look at the artisan's painting technique, where the shine of the surface is instantly enhanced as he repeatedly applies various colors of paint!

Introducing JAF Tow Trucks and Car Transporters This video, titled "(Vehicle Guide) JAF Tow Truck and Car Transporter" (【のりもの図鑑】レッカー車・積載車（JAFの車）), was broadcast on the t.v. show "Go! Go! Norimono town!" (ゴーゴー！のりものタウン！), on the Kids Station (キッズステーション) t.v. channel. (*Norimono means vehicle in Japanese). JAF's tow truck is used to move broken down vehicles and repair them. They can repair a large range of vehicles as well. The tow truck, made by manufacturers such as Tomica, is a very popular toy with kids. The toy version of the truck also comes with a loading apparatus used to repair and move broken down vehicles. More About JAF Source :YouTube screenshot JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) is an organization that deals with various automobile related requests and problems, including breakdowns. They also hold several sporting events throughout the year. It costs 4,000 yen a year to become a JAF member. If you were to request roadside assistance and were not already a member, you would have to pay the joining fee and membership fee on top of the cost of the repairs at the time of the request. However, If you are already a member, JAF will repair your vehicle at no extra cost, however fuel and battery charges still apply. Tow Truck Breakdown Repair Source :YouTube screenshot From 1:52 in the video, you can see staff at the JAF call center take various requests from customers requesting assistance. As soon as a call comes in, a tow truck is sent to the site. After arriving at the scene, the customer is asked a variety of questions, and if the vehicle cannot be fixed on site it will be towed. At 3:14 in the video, you can see a boom truck lift up a car with its crane. Using the crane, the JAF staff can lift the car and have it ready for transportation in around 20 minutes. A pivot arm is used to lift the front wheels and fix them in place. The rear wheels and steering wheel are then fixed in place, ready to be pulled away by the JAF vehicle. Due to safety concerns, a special license is required to lift and tow vehicles weighing more than 750kg. Types of Tow Trucks Source :YouTube screenshot There are five additional types of tow trucks in addition to the regularly used JAF tow truck. At 4:59 in the video, you can see a car transporter towing away a large vehicle that a regular tow truck would be incapable of transporting. From 6:03, we see a multi-purpose tow truck transporting motorbikes. There are also two trucks capable of driving down narrow roads, two-wheeled vehicles that can filter through traffic, and four-wheel drive vehicles that can traverse through the mountains. The Difference Between a Tow Truck and a Car Transporter Photo：Car transporter The difference between a tow truck and a car transporter lies in whether or not the broken down car is loaded onto the vehicle or towed from behind. A car transporter is capable of loading a broken down car onto the vehicle, reducing any risk of damage to the car and its large size, allowing for multiple cars to be loaded onto the vehicle at one time. Car transporters are often used to transport brand new vehicles or when moving homes. JAF Tow Truck and Car Transporter Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed learning more about the JAF tow truck, a vehicle you might see often while you're in Japan. For our readers with cars, we recommend looking up JAF services online for when you find yourself in need of assistance. 【Official Website】JAF Road Service Car (Tow Truck) https://english.jaf.or.jp/?_ga=2.56236011.1793953263.1594781068-1575817741.1593570784

Flights to Hawaii on the Airbus A380! This article will talk about the video published by "SankeiNews," titled "ANA｜The World's Largest Passenger Plane｜Airbus A380｜Inside Look!" (世界最大の旅客機「エアバスA380」内部公開). This video will explore the interior of ANA Airbus A380. On April 23, 2019, ANA gave the press an inside look at the interior of the FLYING HONU, the world's largest double-decker passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380, which will operate on the Narita-Honolulu route, at Narita Airport. A380 began operation on May 24th, 2019 for the first time, under a Japanese Airline company. What Is the Airbus A380? Source :YouTube screenshot As shown at the beginning of the video, the exterior of the Airbus A380 is painted to resemble a sea turtle, which is considered to be a sacred creature in Hawaii. It holds a total of 520 seats which is the largest number of seats on any ANA flight: 8 first class, 56 business class, 76 premium economy, and 383 economy seats. You can see a glimpse of the cabin at 0:15 in the video. One special feature of this plane is that some of the economy seats convert to couch seating so that passengers, especially children, can lay down comfortably. Each floor has a bar counter for beverages and there's a multi-purpose room at the back of the first floor for changing and breast feeding. The luxurious First Class can be seen at 2:01 in the video.It features a luxurious in-flight service and a full range of toiletries and bedding. The Airbus A380 has four engines and is approximately 73 metres long, 80 metres wide and 24 metres tall, with a cruise speed of 910 kilometres per hour and a total flight distance of 13,330 kilometres. Features of the Airbus A380 Source :YouTube screenshot The ANA Airbus A380 has a variety of features. The seat pitch is 34 inches (86 centimeters), which allows you to stretch your legs out. The A380 is also equipped with one of the largest LCD monitors in the economy class, offering the latest movies and in-flight programs.There's also a PC power supply and USB port at your feet to keep your gadgets from running out of juice. The in-flight meal will be served in collaboration with "bills," which is said to serve some of the best breakfast in the world. You can enjoy Pork Schnitzel and a Japanese inspired grilled chicken with coconut curry sauce, from 10,000 ft. There are a variety of kids' meals as well. At 1:06 in the video, you can see limited edition plush toys and original goods such as a 1/500 scale FLYING HONU model on sale inside the plane. The Airbus A380 Operates Globally Photo：Airplane・Airbus A380 The Airbus A380, shown in the video, is a turbofan four-engine, super-sized passenger aircraft manufactured by the European company Airbus. The A380 is the largest passenger aircraft in history, with 234 aircrafts in operation by 14 companies worldwide, including Emirates and Singapore Airlines. Historically, the A380 was operated by Singapore Airlines on October 15, 2007, with service between Singapore and Sydney. Japanese airline Skymark agreed to purchase the Airbus A380 on November 8, 2010, but the deal unfortunately fell apart. ANA, on the other hand, was scheduled to reach a purchase agreement in 2008, but due to the stock market crash that year no progress was made. In 2016, it was reported that three Airbus A380 aircrafts would be introduced to the Honolulu route in the spring of 2019, as shown in the video, and the Airbus A380 aircraft, with a sea turtle paint design, began service as FLYING HONU. Summary of the Airbus A380 Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think of ANA's Airbus A380? This article introduced the interior and history of the luxurious Airbus A380. You can take a look at the cockpit at 2:28 in the video, too, so be sure to check it out. The Airbus A380 is said to be priced at $445.6 million USD. The A380 only operating between Hawaii and Japan at this time, but if you're planning on traveling between Japan and hawaii be sure to look into flights on the massive A380! 【Official Website】New A380/ ANA’s new Hawaii with FLYING HONU https://www.ana.co.jp/ja/jp/hawaii24/airbus380/

Jetfoil SUISEI Is a Convenient Boat for Sightseeing at Remote Islands This video, created by ‘Sado Steam Ship Official Channel,’ is titled ‘[Drone Footage] Jetfoil SUISEI departing from Ryotsu Port (両津港, Ryotsu-Ko)]’. Sado Island (佐渡島, Sadogashima) floats off the coast of Japan's Hokuriku Region (北陸地方, Hokuriku-Chiho) in the Sea of Japan. Sado Steam Ship (Sado Kisen), an important means of transportation to Sado Island, serves its customers with Jetfoil SUISEI, the ultimate high-speed ferry with aerospace technology. No one gets dizzy aboard Jetfoil SUISEI! This article is about the drone footage of marvelous Jetfoil SUISEI of Sado Steam Ship. Can you believe such a large ship can glide through the waves so easily? You won't be able to take your eyes off wave-cutting wonder! Sado Steam Ship Is the First Option for Tourists to Sado Island! Photo：Sado Steam Ship Ryotsu Port,Scenery from the boat Sado Island is located miles away from the coastline of Niigata Prefecture (新潟県, Niigata-Ken) in the Sea of Japan. Sado Steam Ship will take you directly from Niigata Port (新潟港, Niigata-Ko) in Niigata Prefecture to Ryotsu Port in Sadogashima. In addition to Jetfoil SUISEN, Tokiwamaru and Okesamaru, 2 other ferries, are in service on this route. Jetfoil more than halves the conventional trip of 2.5 hours by car ferry to an astonishing 1 hour 5 minutes! Similarly, AKANE, another high-speed ferry of Sado Steam Ship, serves the route between Naoetsu Port (直江津港, Naoetsu-Ko) in Joetsu City (上越市, Joetsu-Shi), Niigata Prefecture and Ogi Port (小木港, Ogi-Ko) in Sadogashima. What Exactly is Jetfoil SUISEI? Photo：The Sea Jetfoil SUISEI, operated by Sado Steam Ship, started its service in 1991. Its distinct characteristic is its maximum travel speed of 80km/h. Its waterjet pump, powered by a gas turbine engine, fires high-pressure water to make it hover and propel it through the water. It is also called "Plane of the Seas" because the lift of the hydrofoils in the front and back of the hull allows it to rise to the surface of the sea and navigate at high speed. In the video, the vessel starts floating from around 2:40. Watching the clip, the high standard of Japanese technology is sure to impress you. How to Enjoy the Voyage on Jetfoil SUISEI Photo：Sotokaifu from the Sea The experience starts right when you board the boat and set sail. The footage, from 0:14, captures the embarking vessel. The cozy seats onboard will ensure that you are comfortable! For safety reasons, passengers are required to fasten their seatbelts. But, don't worry! The journey on Jetfoil SUISEI is so steady that you can even take a nap and prepare yourself for the awaiting tourism! The view from the windows is exceptional too! The panorama of the vast Sea of Japan and the height of the Osado Mountains (大佐渡山脈, Oosado Sanmyaku), including Mt. Kinpoku (金北山, Kinpoku-San) on Sado Island, is a sight to behold. Get the best possible experience by sitting in a window seat! The ferry is equipped with a toilet and a nursing room. It is kept safe with various safety devices, such as the Automatic Control Systems, an echo sounder, a hydrofoil up/down device, a radar, wireless devices, inflatable rescue rafts, life jackets and an automatic firefighting device. Summary of Jetfoil SUISEI Source :Official website Sado Steam Ship YouTube screenshot introduced Jetfoil SUISEI, operated by Sado Steam Ship of Japan. A single trip on Jetfoil SUISEI between Niigata Port and Ryotu Port will run you 6,510 Yen (~$60 USD) for adults, and 3,260 Yen for children (as of November 2019). Cheaper fares are available during events and for tourism packages. Jefoil SUISEI carries a maximum of 250 passengers. If seats are available, you can buy a ticket on the spot, but we recommend you buy in advance as crowds are expected. The latest travel news is posted on the official homepage of Sado Steam Ship. Are you all set to travel on Jetfoil SUISEI after watching the video? We hope you can enjoy the full experience of Jetfoil SUISEI during your visit to Japan! ◆About Jetfoil SUISEI◆ 【Operator】Sado Steam Ship 【Address】〒952-0014 353, Ryotsu Minato, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 【Routes】Niigata Port – Ryotsu Port, Sado 【Travel Time】About 65 Minutes 【Details/Timetables】5 to 7 services per day. Please check the official homepage for further information. 【Admission Fee】Niigata Port – Ryotsu Port: Adult 6,510 Yen, Child 3,260 Yen (As of November 2019) 【Official Website】Sado Steam Ship https://www.sadokisen.co.jp/en 【Official Website】Sado Tourism Navigation – Welcome to Sado, an island of four-seasons and tradition https://www.visitsado.com/en/

About the video on “FLEXIE.” The title of the video is "[Huge impact!] MOL Next-generation Car Carrier FLEXIE Series (Digest)” created by “MOL channel.” This video introduces viewers to the next-generation car carrier vessel developed by Mitsui O.S.K Lines. Using the latest technology, this car carrier ship has high loading efficiency, high propulsive efficiency and high performance. Take a look at the video to see how cool the ship design is! This article will discuss the next-generation car carrier ship “FLEXIE.” What is "FLEXIE", the next generation car carrier ship? Source of photo :YouTube screenshot What you see in the video is the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE. FLEXIE is operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and carries cars and construction equipment overseas. As you can see in the video at 0:08, the car carrier transportation service “MOL ACE” was established in 2015 to expand their business internationally. The “FLEXIE series” gained an excellent reputation based on its unprecedented innovations. In 1965, MOL’s very first car carrier ship “Oppama Maru” was commissioned. Oppama Maru was the first car carrier ship in Japan at the time. Since then, car carrier ships have advanced over the years and eventually the next-generation car carrier ship series FLEXIE was born. Using the latest technology, FLEXIE allows for the transport of various different kinds of vehicles such as trucks and trailers. Please watch the video starting from 0:38 to learn more about the history of MOL. The next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE received a Good Design Award in 2018. MOL’s FLEXIE won the award, making it the first winner from the shipping industry in over 9 years. The full length of FLEXIE is 199.95 meters (~650 ft) and the total width is 32.2 meters (~105.5 ft). The ship also boasts a capacity of 6,800 units (standard passenger vehicles). Currently, there a 4 vessels in operation. Features of next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Features of next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE include the use of the latest load efficiency increasing technology as well as propulsion efficiency increasing technology. Increasing the number of lift-able decks (floors and ceilings can be raised and lowered) increases the number of decks to 14 layers. FLEXIE is completely strengthened, and as a result, a bulkhead-less structure can be implemented, greatly reducing the usage of the ships partitions (bulkhead). With this new structure, load efficiency is improved 6.25%. Various kinds of vehicles can be loaded on the vessel as well, as the load capacity of the ramp-way is 150 tons. To see how cars are loaded using this latest technology, please take a look at the video starting from 1:12. Source of photo :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video from 2:16, MOL worked on FLEXIE to create a Panamax-type of ship to reduce wind resistance (maximum size Panamax-type ships are able to cross the Panama Canal connecting North and South America). By using the latest propellers, water flow is optimized and increases propulsion efficiency. FLEXIE also cuts CO2 emissions by 13.7% by implementing the latest energy-saving technology. FLEXIE can generate power using a solar panel system and use the solar power when the ship is at anchor to cut emissions to ZERO. As you can see from 3:03, FLEXIE uses technologies such as AR and IoT to support steering and adhere to safety regulations. There's also a sensor that detects any defects and performs maintenance before any trouble occurs. An overview of the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE Soruce of photo :YouTube screenshot The video “MOL Next-generation Car Carrier FLEXIE Series (Digest)” created by “MOL Channel” introduces viewers to the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE. FLEXIE is a high performance car carrier ship using the latest technology. You can see the latest AR steering support technology in the video. The high performance car carrier ship revolutionizing the ship industry has set sail! 【Official Website】Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. https://www.mol.co.jp/en/index.html

Introducing SHINOBI-TRAIN, a Limited-Time Event Train on the Jr Kusatsu Line What do you think of when it comes to Japan's most popular content overseas? Anime? Godzilla? Geisha? Mt. Fuji? Japan has a lot of content popular overseas. But aren't you forgetting something important? NINJAS! Overseas, the ninja is said to have been incorporated into the training of the military as well. In this article, we'll introduce the "SHINOBI-TRAIN," a limited-time "wrapping train" operated by the JR Kusatsu Line, in the video "JR Kusatsu Line PR video [SHINOBI-TRAIN]" (JR草津線PR動画【SHINOBI-TRAIN編】), released by the Kusatsu City Office of Shiga Prefecture. JR Kusatsu's SHINOBI-TRAIN Photo：SHINOBI-TRAIN The JR Kusatsu Line, on which SHINOBI-TRAIN runs, runs from Tsuge Station in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, to Kusatsu Station, Shiga Prefecture. This area originated from what used to be called the Ninja Town, the birthplace of Iga Ninja and Kouka Ninja, resulting in the birth of the uniquely designed ninja train shown in the video. You can see the attractive exterior of SHINOBI-TRAIN at 0:10 in the video. The SHINOBI-TRAIN uses the vehicle that has been used since the Kosei Line began operations, and the Shinobi logo on the lead car is designed with a shuriken, the symbol of ninjas. As you can see at 0:26 in the video, ninjas and Sengoku warlords welcome guests inside the SHINOBI-TRAIN car. JR Kusatsu Line SHINOBI-TRAIN Operation Schedule Source :YouTube screenshot The JR Kusatsu Line SHINOBI-TRAIN is a 4-car, 1-set train that operates irregularly. Originally, it was scheduled to be in operation until the end of September 2020, however, the impactful design serves as a good advertisement for the JR Kusatsu Line, and there have been many requests from the local people for the continuation of the line, so they decided to extend the period of operation until the end of June 2021. In Shiga Prefecture, they are also planning a monitor tour where you can ride SHINOBI-TRAIN. For details, please check the official SHINOBI-TRAIN site of Shiga Prefecture. JR Kusatsu Line SHINOBI-TRAIN Summary Source :YouTube screenshot The SHINOBI-TRAIN is not only wrapped in ninja decal on the exterior, but the interior is also a literal ninja train full of ninja-esque design. Ninja curtains are displayed on the hanging ads, and the electronic display board is also specific of the SHINOBI-TRAIN. It all makes for a very fun experience. The crew members cosplay as ninjas, and at 1:04 in the video, you can see the local Mascot greeting tourists at the station. It's well received by children and foreigners. The JR Kusatsu Line has direct service from Kyoto Station in the morning and evening, so transportation access is excellent! However, the SHINOBI-TRAIN schedule is irregular and rare, so check the timetable on the official JR Kusatsu Line website for details.

Snowplowing Fukui's Snow-Covered Railroad - Echizen Railway This video, titled “[Snow Removal Work] Snow Removal Work by Two Echizen Railway Snow Blowers: Echizen Railway Nishiharue Station, February 9th, 2018” (【除雪作業】えちぜん鉄道・ロータリー車 ２台による排雪作業 えちぜん鉄道 西春江駅 2018年2月9日), is produced by "labaoka." It shows the snowplowing of Echizen Railway. Have you seen snowplowing at railroads in heavy snow areas? In the metropolitan area, trains are stopped when there's just a few centimeters of snow. How do people in heavy snow areas, often covered by a few meters of snow in one night, manage to remove the snow on the railways? This video shows actual footage of the snowplowing at Echizen Railway Nishiharue Station, in Fukui Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region, one of the snowiest areas in Japan. This is rare footage that you've probably never seen before. Fukui Prefecture – A Heavy Snowfall Area in Japan Photo：Snowplows clearing snow on road In the video, the snow is taller than the people! Did you know that Japan has some of the snowiest areas in the world? As the railroads stretch throughout Japan, people in areas with heavy snowfall have to plow snow every day in the winter. The main island of Japan has a mountain range in the center which divides the Pacific Ocean and Japan Sea sides. During winter, strong winds from the continent hit the mountain range and cause low air pressure. This is why there are so many places with heavy snowfall on the Japan Sea side. The Echizen Railway shown in the video runs through Fukui, one of Ishikawa's neighboring prefectures. The Hokuriku region which is composed of Fukui, Ishikawa, and Toyama is one of the snowiest areas in Japan. About Echizen Railway – A Railway in the Snow Photo：A Rusted track and unmanned station Echizen Railway, nicknamed as “Echi Tetsu,” is a railway that connects Fukui City with Katsuyama City and Sakai City. There are hot spring facilities such as Awara Onsen and Mikuni Onsen Yuaport, as well as tourist spots like Bashozuka, Matsuoka Kofun Cluster, and Tojinbo. Echizen Railway is a railway in the third sector that was established as the successor to the Echizen Main Line and Mikuni Awara Line formerly operated by Keifuku Electric Railroad in Fukui. The L-type train car is a “brother” to the Toyama Light Rail TLR0600 series. Its futuristic design is also popular among train enthusiasts. Snowplows – Essential Vehicles for Snow Removal on Railroads Source :YouTube screenshot Snowplows are essential vehicles for railroads in snowy regions. As you can see in the video, it snows so much that the crossing, as well as the rail, are almost completely covered by snow. This is dangerous even for the local people who are used to snow. Which is exactly why these vehicles are necessary. Let us introduce several types of snowplows: -Russel snowplow: This is the most common snowplow for railroads. It plows its way through snow using the blade on the edge of the main car. -Snow blower: This locomotive blows the raked snow by spinning the rotary with its motor. -Russel snow blower: Russel snow blower has both features of a snow blower and a Russel snowplow. This vehicle is used in the snowiest areas in Japan. The video shows footage of a snowplow passing through Nishiharue Station slowly while removing snow. As seen at 0:59, the snowplow faces the direction that allows it to not blow snow at nearby houses. It's quite tough work. Summary of Snow Removal at Fukui's Echizen Railway Various snowplows greatly help the heavy snow areas in Japan. The vehicle at the beginning of the video removing snow from the rail of Echizen Railway is the snow blower and the Russel snowplow appears after 10:00 in the video. being one of the snowiest areas in Japan, this kind of snow removal work by snowplows is essential for Fukui Prefecture. After removing snow by snow blowers, however, people must remove the blown snow manually to prevent a buildup of large snowdrifts on roads and in front of houses. Even though local people are used to it, life in a snowy region is tough. Plowing snow is just the icing on the cake. Watch and enjoy the footage of Echizen Railway snowplows working to secure traffic safety for the local people of Fukui – one of the snowiest areas in Japan.

The Gleaming Golden Pirate Ship “Queen Ashinoko” This time we'll be introducing the construction process of the Queen Ashinoko. The video "Queen Ashinoko's Construction From Start to Finish" (クイーン芦ノ湖」の製造過程動画「クイーン芦ノ湖ができるまで」), was released by "Hakone Pirate Ship Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (Official)." The Queen Ashinoko is the 3rd pirate ship that is in service on Hakone's largest lake, Lake Ashinoko. Hakone is a hot spring resort area representing East Japan, and the area is full of tourists year round. However, the appeal of Hakone is not just the hot springs. Going for a cruise on Lake Ashinoko is also one of the major attractions of sightseeing in Hakone, and, as shown in the footage, in 2019, the 3rd pirate ship "Queen Ashinoko" went into service. It has a gleaming golden hull and the design, with its luxurious and classic interior using wood, has become widely talked about and is already very popular. You can see the appearance of the beautiful hull at 4:57 during its commencement ceremony. The Queen Ashinoko was named after a pirate ship, and was designed as a tourist ship of luxury and elegance, with the concept of "from a ship that fights to a ship that prays for peace..."On the bow is a statue of Nike of Samothrace, which is exhibited at the Louvre Museum. It is designed as a luxurious and elegant sightseeing ship. In order to make use of the classical design as a pirate ship, Dawn Design Institute was asked to undertake the basic design; and as shown at 0:35 in the video, Mr. Eiji Mitooka, who served as the industrial designer, says that he was very particular about pursuing a sense of fun, comfort, and luxuriousness from the customer’s point of view. Building the Pirate Ship and How It Was Transported Source :YouTube screenshot Typically, shipyards are located by the sea. Even ships like Queen Ashinoko, that are located in the mountains are built near the sea. In fact, Queen Ashinoko was built at a shipyard in Tsurumi, Yokohama, in Kanagawa Prefecture. But then how was such a massive ship like the Queen Ashinoko brought to Hakone? Well actually, the basic manufacturing of the frame and exterior was done at the shipyard, and then the hull was disassembled into 10 blocks and transported to Hakone by land. You can see the transport at 1:30 in the video. After being transported to Hakone in a large trailer, the Queen Ashinoko was assembled at the owner's company's dock, and then the finishing touches of painting and interior work were done, and finally it was completed. The actual assembly process is shown at 2:37 in the video. You can see that the entire process, including the golden paint job, is carried out by shipbuilding specialists. The wooden interior design was designed by computer and laser engraved for a beautiful finish. Queen Ashinoko is the first ship in Japan to have a laser-engraved interior design using computer graphics. The Launch Ceremony in April 2019! Source :YouTube screenshot Watching the launch ceremony for a ship is quite an awesome experience. You can see a shiny new ship entering the water at Togendai Port at around 4:00 in the video, and there are scenes of many people celebrating at the inauguration ceremony and actual passengers on board at the time of the launch. Summary of the Queen Ashinoko Photo：Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashinoko The tour course of the Hakone pirate ships (Royal II, Victory, Queen Ashinoko) is an approximately 1-hour cruise that goes from Hakonemachi Port → Moto Hakone Port (Hakone Shrine) → Togendai Port → Hakonemachi Port. The magnificent view of Lake Ashinoko from the special cabin is sure to look great on Instagram. Don't forget to take pictures!! The official website of the Hakone Pirate Ships offers a gallery of each ship, prices, timetables, transportation, merchandise and events. Advance reservations are required to join the tour, so please check the official website for that as well. 【Official Website】Queen Ashinoko｜Introduction of the pirate ship｜Hakone Pirate Ship https://www.hakone-kankosen.co.jp/foreign/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hakone Pirate Ship https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298171-d319908-Reviews-Hakone_Sightseeing_Cruise-Hakone_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway This video is titled "4K｜Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway｜A Superb View of the Alps" (4K アルプスの絶景　北八ヶ岳ロープウェイ). It was produced by “ibukivideo,” and introduces the spectacular view from the Kita-Yatsugatake Ropeway. The Kita-Yatsugatake Ropeway is located in the northern Yatsugatake mountain range, spanning the Suwa and Saku regions of Nagano Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture. It's a luxurious ride overlooking the three major Alps in Japan. In this video, you can see various views from Sanroku station to the observation deck at the summit station. In this article, we'll introduce the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway. Be sure to follow along with the video! What Is the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway? Photo：Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway The Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway is a large 100-seat ropeway located between Mt. Yoko (northern Yatsugatake) and Mt. Shimagare. Depart from Sanroku station at an altitude of 1,771m, seen at 0:03 in the video, and climb to the summit station at an altitude of 2,237m, shown at 2:20. Within about 7 minutes of boarding, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Yatsugatake mountain range. You'll understand why it's a popular tourist spot. An observation deck is installed at the summit station, and you can see a view of Mt. Ontake, the Central Alps, and the Northern Alps. In addition, there is a garden called Tsubo-niwa at the summit station, where you can enjoy seasonal alpine plants. We recommend viewing the beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. The Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway is operated by Kita Yatsugatake Resort Co., Ltd. The name has changed several times over the years as well. From 1967 to 1985 it was called "Japan Pilatus Yokodake Ropeway," in 1985 it was renamed to "Pilatus Yokodake Ropeway," between 2001 and 2012 it went by "Pilatus Tadeka Ropeway," and from 2012 to the present it has gone by "Kita Yatsugatake ropeway." Sightseeing on the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway Photo：Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway By car, access to the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway is about 25 km (40 to 50 minutes) from the Suwa IC on the Chuo Expressway. By bus, get off at Chino Station on the JR East Japan Chuo Line. At the Alpico Kotsu Bus Stop at the west exit, take the "Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway" to the hotel. It takes around 1 hour to arrive. The cost of the ropeway is 2,100 yen for adults (junior high school students and older) and 1,050 yen for children. At Yatsugatake, you can climb from the summit of the ropeway. There are a variety of trails to choose from, including day hikes and overnight hikes using a mountain lodges. Keep in mind that the temperature and weather in the mountains can change easily, especially in summer when there are many evening showers. Rain gear is a must in case it starts to rain. The Yatsugatake Ropeway also offers delicious meals. "Sky Restaurant Komakusatei" is a popular restaurant that offers handmade dishes using Ingredients from Shinshu, Nagano. At the BBQ Garden, you can enjoy a group barbecue. Enjoying a barbecue while staying in a log cabin-style cottage in the great outdoors is something special. Near the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway, there are plenty of lodging facilities where you can enjoy hot springs as well. Summary of Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway Source :YouTube screenshot "4K｜Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway｜A Superb View of the Alps" released by "ibukivideo," introduces the superb views of the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway. Besides the scenery on the ropeway, you can also enjoy beauty of nature from the top of the mountain. If you're interested in the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and delicious food, be sure to check out the video! 【Tripadvisor】Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303145-d1991109-Reviews-Kitayatsugatake_Rope_Way-Chino_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

The Limited Express Sightseeing Train From Tokyo to Izu: Saphir Odoriko - All Cars First Class or Better This video, titled "The Opening of Saphir Odoriko - All Seats First Class or Better" (「サフィール踊り子」公開 全座席がグリーン車以上), was released by "KyodoNews." The video of the news was made open to the press in December 2019. The Limited express train “Saphir Odoriko” will operate on Tokyo-Shinjuku・Shizuoka-izukyuushimoda route, and it will be entered into train schedules by March 14th, 2020. The characteristics of the Saphir Odoriko are its private rooms, and first class or higher seating. It will become a frequently used line connecting the Metropolitan area to Izu. Please watch the video for an inside look at the luxurious accommodations, and to feel the high class nature of this limited express sightseeing train that allows for a comfortable journey between Tokyo and Izu. Saphir Odoriko: All Seats "Green" Source :YouTube screenshot After the Super View Odoriko of JR East is decommissioned in March 2020, the Saphir Odoriko (Railway series: E261) limited express sightseeing train is a brand new train that will grant easy access to popular sightseeing locations around Izu. The namesake "Saphir" in French means "sapphire" reminiscent of its appearance which looks like the beautiful blue sea and sky in Izu. Saphir Odoriko has 8 cars with a capacity of 164 people and the first car (which is a premium Green Car) has skylight seating, so when traveling towards Shimoda passengers can feel the natural light of the sky with luxury 1 to 1 seating accommodating up to 20 people in each row. This can be seen at 0:56 in the video. The seating in the 2nd and 3rd cars are for groups of families and friends, and the private green rooms placed in them can accommodate 4 to 6 people. The seating in cars 5 to 8 are Green Cars and have 1 by 2 (◼+◼◼) seating. They are introduced at 1:29 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot In addition, car 4 is a dining car, and is made in the style of an open noodle bar, so you can enjoy some great tasting noodles during your journey. According to the chief of vehicles at JR East's railroad technology center, the appearance of the "Saphir Odoriko" is a metallic blue that is based on the beautiful colors that can be seen in Izu's natural scenery ( 2:05). You can see the train's appearance at 0:14 in the video. In 2020, the popular toy train manufacturer"Plarail" and the model train manufacturer N scale are going to release versions of "Saphir Odoriko", so they might be great gift ideas. Facilities on the Saphir Odoriko Photo：A woman using a laptop on a train Conscious about the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, the facilities on board the “Saphir Odoriko” were designed to accommodate the large influx of inbound tourists, and are thus equipped with large luggage compartments, and free Wi-Fi services. In the private green rooms, luggage compartments are installed inside the room itself. Every seat on the Saphir Odoriko also comes with its own personal electrical outlets for charging laptops, phones, and other electronic devices. That being said, you won’t need to worry about preserving data and battery life while riding on the “Saphir Odoriko”, and can instead use your time freely and effectively. Summary of the Saphir Odoriko On the way to popular sightseeing spots in Izu, you won’t need to worry about traffic jams or if the train is running on time as it’s a reputable railway. As shown in the video, with the light pouring in through the skylights, and the train’s high-class feel, you’re sure to have a relaxing, unforgettable experience traveling with friends or family on the Saphir Odoriko. As of this news' release, the Saphir Odoriko is scheduled to make a round trip once per day between Tokyo and Izu. The currently announced stops for the Saphir Odoriko are: Tokyo station, Shinjuku station, and Izukyuushimoda station, but please keep in mind that these are still subject to change. For ticket prices, or to make reservations, please stop by a JR ticket office.

President Takemoto Katsunori, Who Saved Choshi Railway The video "Local Line Protected by Creativity: The Struggle of the President of Choshi Dentetsu" (発想力で守るローカル線　銚子電鉄社長の奮闘) was uploaded by "Nikkei." The Choshi Electric Railway, which is only 6.4 kilometers long, runs on the east side of the Kanto region and is famous for its unique events, such as the "Ghost Train" and its moist rice crackers. President Katsunori Takemoto, a former tax accountant, utilized his ingenuity to protect the Choshi Railway, which serves as the main form of transportation in the area. What is the Choshi Railway? Photo：Choshi Railway・Tokawa Station Choshi Railway (Choshi Dentetsu), Choden for short, is a train that connects Choshi Station and Tokawa Station in Chiba. The entire line is in Choshi City, and it passes through the easternmost part of the city, near Cape Inubō (犬吠埼, Inubōsaki). Including its predecessor, Choshi Yuran Railway, the railway has a history of more than 100 years. The trains were acquired from major private railroads, and some of them are more than 50 years old. The railway has been in danger of being abandoned many times due to poor performance. Although it is difficult to run the train due to the decreasing population, the management is partly supported by the sale of snacks such as "mazui bo" and wet rice crackers. These wet crackers have generated more than twice the profit of the Choshi Railway, and President Katsunori Takemoto says "the Choshi Railway is a cracker shop" at an interview at 0:56 in the video. You can see crackers being baked at 1:09 in the video. The Brilliant Idea of President Takemoto Katsunori Source :YouTube screenshot President Katsunori Takemoto became the electric railway's tax advisor while also performing conductor duties. His innovations, such as naming rights for event trains and stations, were also successful. The selling of naming rights wasn’t limited to short sighted planning either; it was also to attract companies that were committed to rebuilding the Choshi Railway's management and contributing to the community as owners. Examples include "Never Give Up" Choshi Station (絶対にあきらめない銚子駅), "Roswell" Kimigahama Station (ロズウェル君ヶ浜駅) and "Thank you" Tokawa Station (ありがとう外川駅). In this way, the Choshi Railway has been contributing to society and the region as a hub of the local economy. In recent years, they have released various characters under the anthropomorphic railcar project "Loco MOTION," and a superhero named "Chodenjin Go Gusher" was also created. The Rice Crackers That Saved Choshi Railway Source :YouTube screenshot In 1989, the Choshi Railway was threatened with closure due to a decline in population. In 1998, they started selling moist rice crackers, surpassing earnings from the railway's main business. This was picked up by many media outlets and was the talk of the town at the time. Unfortunately, in 2004, the company took on the debt of the president at that time and began to decline once again. However, rice crackers came to the rescue once again, pulling the railway out of a crisis. The online sales of rice crackers, which were not doing well at the moment, were replaced with crackers that said "Please buy me, I have to earn money to repair the trains." Fans responded to the cry for help, and the railway was able to dodge yet another bullet. Incidentally, the rice crackers, popular survival masks, scarves, and other original Choshi Dentetsu goods are also available by mail order, so please visit the online shop on their website if you're interested. Summary of Choshi Dentetsu's Rice Crackers Photo：Choshi Railway Did you enjoy reading about the innovation of Choshi Dentetsu and their rice crackers? Taking a ride on the quaint railway may make you feel like you're on a sightseeing trip to a far-away land. A movie depicting the history of the Choshi Railway was released in winter 2019 as well. If you're in the area, be sure to take a ride on the Choshi Railway! 【Tripadvisor】Choshi Dentetsu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021144-d1774621-Reviews-Choshi_Dentetsu-Choshi_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The 0 Series Shinkansen Returns as the World’s Slowest Bullet Train/Railway Hobby Train! The video "[Railway Hobby Train] Debut｜Ehime Newspaper," (「鉄道ホビートレイン」デビュー・愛媛新聞), released by "ehimenp," is about the 0 series Shinkansen (The world’s slowest bullet train) running on the JR Shikoku Yodo Line, which stops at Uwajima station and Chikanaga station. This line runs along the Shimanto River. The Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed railway, celebrating its 50th anniversary. The first Shinkansen train to celebrate this anniversary is the 0 series, a car with a cute round nose that everyone has seen at one time or another. The 0 series Shinkansen can be seen at 1:10 in the video. Although the 0 series Shinkansen was retired in 2008, a diesel train car was converted to a 0 series Shinkansen-style train in 2014 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Yodo Line, which runs from Kochi Prefecture to Ehime Prefecture in the Shikoku region. That happens to be the "Railway Hobby Train" introduced in the video. The nicknames of the 0 series shinkansen are Hikari and Kodama. At the time, it attracted a lot of attention in Japan and around the world as a high-speed train that ran at the world's highest speed of 210km/h. Of course, the Railway Hobby Train is a sightseeing train, and since it is a slow-moving diesel train, it cannot achieve such high speeds, but you can enjoy a scenic tour of Shikoku while being gently rocked by the lovely dumpling-nosed cars of the nostalgic 0 series Shinkansen, which look just like the original. The cute Railway Hobby Train can be seen at 0:55 in the video. The Charm of the 0 Series Shinkansen Photo：Railway Hobby Train The Railway Hobby Train is a set of three cars that run on the Yodo Line. In addition to the 0 series Shinkansen train introduced in the video, there is the Shiman Trolley, which can be seen from 6:04 and the Kaiyodo Hobby Train, which can be seen at 6:09. Together with these trains, the three brothers of the Yodo Line are the centerpiece of the regional development. In other words, when we talk about railway hobby trains, we're referring to these three types of trains. Among them, the 0 series hobby train shown in the video is the most popular! Children and Adults Alike Are Excited! the Secrets of the Railway Hobby Train! Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 3:06 in the video, the Series 0 Shinkansen Railway Hobby Train has a model display area inside the train, where the very popular Plarail issue is on display, making it a true dream train for train enthusiasts and children. The Series 0 Shinkansen Hobby Train is based on the Kiha 32 series train, and a fully colored version of the popular N gauge product called "Micro Ace" is also available. The 0 series Shinkansen was also featured in the popular children's anime "Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkarion," so the 0 series Shinkansen is not only for old fans, but a dream come true for children as well. We recommend checking the operation status of the train on the official JR Shikoku website in advance, as it is expected to be very crowded on the days when the train is running. Summary of the Railway Hobby Train Source :YouTube screenshot There is a museum called Shikoku Railway Cultural Center in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. Here, there are 0 series train cars, that actually were once active as shinkansen, on display. In other words, Shikoku is a holy land for railway enthusiasts. The Railway Hobby Train also has a photo corner, but for those who want to take photos of the cute train cars traveling through the magnificent nature of Shikoku, the best place to do so is near the railway bridge on the Yodo Line over the Shimanto river. Don't forget to check the timetable in advance, as Shikoku is often hit by typhoons and operations are cancelled when the weather is bad. Also, the three hobby train brothers are limited to one run per day! Don't miss your chance! 【Tripadvisor】Railway Hobby Train https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608510-d10758981-Reviews-Tetsudo_Hobby_Train_Yodo_Line_JR_Shikoku-Uwajima_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Check Out the Introductory Video of the Genbi Shinkansen, Running Through Niigata “The ‘fun bullet train to ride’ in Niigata - Steps until its operation begins”（新潟の「のってたのしい列車」～現美新幹線・運行開始までの軌跡～） is a documentary video of the The Genbi Shinkansen. The word “Genbi” is an abbreviation of “Gendai Bijutsu (現代美術),” meaning “modern art” in Japanese. This train, limitedly operated by JR East Joetsu Shinkansen, belongs to the Niigata Shinkansen Vehicle Center. When its operation started in 2016, the Genbi Shinkansen used to run between Echigoyuzawa Station to Niigata Station only within Niigata prefecture. After 2017, however, it now runs between Niigata Station and Tokyo Station as a travel-only train. It also runs from Sendai in Fukushima to Omiyama in Saitama for a special tour. In this three-minute video, you can see the production scene of the Genbi Shinkansen until its debut. Did you know that such a beautiful train runs in Japan...? What Is the Genbi Shinkansen? A Look at Its Designs! Source :YouTube screenshot The Genbi Shinkansen in Niigata attracts the attention of many people, as it’s known as the train of the “fastest art appreciation gallery in the world.” As a train with a brand-new concept of the “moving museum,” the Genbi Shinkansen displays many modern artworks made for this bullet train. The artwork on the body of the train, which you can see at 0:40 in the video, is designed by Japanese photographer Mika Ninagawa. The inside of the train was designed and created by a lot of artists. Many artists designed and created various exteriors and interiors, which make for great photos. In 2018, the exterior design was renewed; the Genbi Shinkansen became a more attractive bullet train. As of November 2019, the Genbi Shinkansen runs as a temporary train of the bullet train “Toki (No. 451-456),” making three round trips a day, mainly on Saturdays and holidays. It operates between Echigoyuzawa Station and Niigata Station within Niigata prefecture, which takes about 50 minutes. It stops at the following five stations: Echigoyuzawa Station, Urasa Station, Nagaoka Station, Tsubamesanjo Station, and Niigata Station. The Interior of the Genbi Shinkansen! Source :YouTube screenshot As seen at 0:59 in the video, people started to work on the interior of the Genbi Shinkansen at the Niigata Shinkansen Vehicle Center in February 2016. Artists started to move their artworks into the train on the very first day. From 1:32, the video shows each interior design of the Genbi Shinkansen. The 11th car (designed by the artist Nao Matsumoto), is a reserved seat car with limited express tickets, and is designed with the concept of the “five harvests,” “festivals,” and “lights,” while the 12th car (designed by the artist Yusuke Komuta) is designed with mirrors to reflect the world through its car windows. You can also enjoy each innovative contemporary art exhibit in the 14th car (designed by the photographer Naoki Ishikawa), the 15th car (designed by the artist Haruka Kojin), and the 16th car (designed by the artist Brian Alfred). In the 13th car, there is a playing room for kids with the toy Pla-rail (designed by the artist paramodel) and a café (designed by the artist Kentaro Kobuke), where you can enjoy drinks from Tsubame Coffee by Tatsuyuki Tanaka and sweet treats of the cake shop Romi-Unie. In the café space, you can also buy some railway items, including the N-scale model railway. Please find your favorite item there. The 12th, 14th, 15th, and 16th cars have non-reserved seats where you can enjoy artworks. The Genbi Shinkansen was completed in March 2016 and its departure ceremony was celebrated on April 29, 2016, as you can see at 1:55 in the video. Summary of the Genbi Shinkansen Source :YouTube screenshot The Genbi Shinkansen, operated as Joetsu Shinkansen’s joyful train, runs at a top speed of 240 kilometers per hour. So we can definitely call it the "fastest art museum in the world." When you travel to Niigata or Sendai, please try out the Genbi Shinkansen. For more information please take a look at the official website of JR East; You can see its schedule, fares, reservations, operation days, operation routes, connections, and so on. At 2:33 in this video, you can see a colorful Shinkansen running through the nature of Japan. I know the beautiful design makes me want to take a ride at least once. 【Official Website】The Genbi Shinkansen: The fun bullet train to ride (JR East Niigata Branch) https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/destinations/niigata_sado.html