JR EAST Travel Philippines

✨ Tokyo Marunouchi Illumination 2023 ✨

The annual "Tokyo Marunouchi Illumination 2023" event is back again this year! 🏙️

As you step out of JR Tokyo Station's Marunouchi Central Exit, you'll find more than 340 sparkling streetside trees adorned with around 1.2 million champagne gold-colored LED bulbs. They stretch along the approximately 1.2 km-long main street of Marunouchi Naka-dori. 🌟

This year, multiple events are scheduled to take place in the area, promising a different and exciting experience for visitors. 🎉

Spend Christmas in Tokyo and enjoy the extraordinary beauty of this metropolitan spectacle with your loved ones. 🎄❤️

ℹ️ Event Details ℹ️
Light-up period: November 16, 2023 (Thursday) to February 18, 2024 (Sunday)
Light-up hours: 4 PM to 11 PM (4 PM to 12 AM from December 1 to 31)
Limited light-up: For a limited period of 28 days, the illuminations will also be expanded to a part of Gyoko-dori which connects the Imperial Palace Gardens and Tokyo Station. (Period: November 28 to December 25)

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/1hraoaZET8mBfMLx9

Access: Just outside the Marunouchi Central Exit of JR Tokyo Station

Please check the official website for more details: https://www.marunouchi.com/event/detail/37086/

Great value pass information: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/tokyowidepass.html

❄️ 3 Winter Sightseeing Spots in Maebashi ❄️

Start your journey from Takasaki Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen, and transfer to the Ryomo Line to reach Maebashi Station. 🚉

Explore Mt. Akagi, accessible by bus from Maebashi City, believed to be the mountain where gods live. At the mountain's summit lies Akagi Shrine, dedicated to the goddess Akagihime, known as a power spot where women's wishes come true. 🏔️

After praying at Akagi Shrine, why not enjoy fishing for smelt on the frozen surface of Onuma, Akagi's largest caldera lake, located nearby? If you're lucky, you might even see the mysterious phenomenon of ice bubbles. 🫧

Afterwards, head to Tenmyoji Temple in Ikebata Fudoson, Maebashi City. Witness the firewalking ceremony performed by Yamabushi (Japanese mountain monks), which not only impresses but also warms your body. 🔥

Come visit Maebashi, a city rich in nature and history! 🌟

Access: Tokyo Station (about 50 minutes on the JR Joetsu Shinkansen or Hokuriku Shinkansen) → Takasaki Station (15 minutes on the JR Ryomo Line) → Maebashi Station

Akagi Shrine: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pV88AfhpHvVWwXQc6

Lake Onuma: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mHGduzZM3x99MXap9

Tenmyoji Temple: https://maps.app.goo.gl/eabVc65rkiBD3jiQ6

Have you ever seen 3 meters of snow? Play in the snow and take a hot spring bath in Tokamachi! ❄️♨️

Why not take a short trip to Tokamachi from Echigo-Yuzawa Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen? The snow in Tokamachi has a high water content, and if you squeeze it tightly, it will easily harden, allowing your snowman to take shape in no time! ⛄

Matsunoyama Onsen Ski Resort offers a variety of activities such as snow biking, airboarding, and snow camping. It's not just about skiing and snowboarding! Enjoy new ways to play in the snow, and don't forget to bring gloves, a scarf, a hat, and protective measures to shield yourself from the cold. ⛷️🧤🥶

Snow Play for Newbies: https://www.tokamachishikankou.jp/en/special/special_yukiguninoasobikata/

Rejuvenate your tired body after playing in the snow with the medicinal baths at Matsunoyama Onsen. Thanks to the high salt concentration, these hot springs not only soothe but also help keep your body cool, promoting beautiful skin. 🧖‍♀️✨

The Secrets of Matsunoyama Onsen: https://www.tokamachishikankou.jp/en/special/special_matsunoyama/

Access: Tokyo Station (about 70 minutes on the JR Joetsu Shinkansen) → Echigo-Yuzawa Station (about 50 minutes on the JR Hokuhoku Line) → Matsudai Station → take a route bus or shuttle bus to Matsunoyama Onsen

(Photos provided by Tokamachi Tourist Association)

🎄 Sendai Christmas Market 2023 🎄

The Christmas market is returning to Sendai this year! The largest Christmas tree in Tohoku will grace the venue, adorned with stunning illuminations that will make it a sight to behold. ✨

At the venue, there will be stalls showcasing delights from all over Tohoku and even Germany. The familiar wooden huts will be there, adding to the festive atmosphere. 🇩🇪

The "SENDAI Pageant of Lights" will also be held featuring 129 zelkova trees along Jozenji Street, illuminated by about 500,000 LED lights—bigger and brighter than ever before! 🎄🌟

Why not embrace a white Christmas in Sendai, enjoying warm mulled wine and delicious meals? 🍷❄️

ℹ️ Event Details ℹ️
Period: December 8th (Friday) to 25th (Monday)
Weekdays: 3 PM to 10 PM
Saturdays: 12 PM to 10 PM
Sundays: 12 PM to 9 PM
*Admission is free

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1AWvrCKpf6Gegpwq9

Access:
● Shinkansen
JR Tokyo Station → Sendai (Tohoku Shinkansen)
Ride time: 2 hours 27 minutes
● Subway
Sendai (subway) → Kotodai-Koen Station
Ride time: 3 minutes

Please check the official website for more details: https://sendai-christmas.com/ (*Japanese only)

Great value pass information: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/eastpass_t.html

Why not experience Niigata's tradition and evolution on board?

This time, we will introduce local products from Niigata that are sold on the Joetsu Shinkansen. 🛒

🐟 Salmon Sake Bitashi 🍶

Niigata is famous for its salmon, and Salmon Sake Bitashi is a traditional masterpiece prepared by hand using only salmon and salt, taking over half a year to bring out the flavor. ✨

Although called "Sake Bitashi," it does not contain any alcohol! Soaking it a little in sake reduces the saltiness and adds the flavor of the sake, making it even more delicious. 👍

🥨 "Kaki no Tane in Oil" Pretzels 🥨

Kaki no Tane was born in Niigata about 100 years ago. "Kaki no Tane in Oil" has a crunchy texture even though it is soaked in oil, and is now available as a pretzel so you can easily enjoy it! It offers just the right amount of spiciness and has an addictive "zakuuma" flavor, perfect for pairing with beer. 🍻

These products will be available for purchase on the Joetsu Shinkansen (Tokyo~Niigata) until around February 2024. All of our attendants look forward to serving you! 🤗

Visit the Kita-Shinano area of Nagano Prefecture this winter! ❄️

🌨️ Iiyama City: Little Kyoto in the Snow Country 🌨️

Iiyama City in Nagano Prefecture is a place where you can enjoy activities throughout all four seasons, surrounded by a temple-lined townscape reminiscent of Kyoto! ✨

In winter, we recommend winter activities on the slopes covered in 100% natural snow, where you can enjoy spectacular views. You can also enjoy sake at a famous sake brewery! ⛷️🍶

With Tabisuru Kitashinano, you can get sightseeing e-tickets such as ski lift tickets at a cheaper price than usual! Tabisuru Kitashinano is a convenient and economical service that allows you to purchase sightseeing and transportation tickets in Nagano's Kita-Shinano area in advance with a credit card using a smartphone. 👌

Please come to Iiyama City, which is just 1 hour and 41 minutes away from Tokyo by Shinkansen! 🚄

The entire city is the stage! Ready to enjoy Yokohama's beautiful illuminations? ✨

Winter illumination season is here! ❄️

The enchanting port town of Yokohama is easily accessible via a quick JR Line journey from Tokyo Station to Sakuragicho Station for approximately 40 minutes. Immerse yourself in a grand-scale illumination extravaganza currently held in the area! 🌟

Highlights include a spectacular illumination show synchronized with lights and music (every 30 minutes), interactive digital art centered around a huge cube in Shinko Central Square, and projection mapping on the sea at Yokohama Port Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal. 👏

This winter, make your visit to Japan extra special by spending a magical night in the radiant Yokohama area. 🌃

✨ Yorunoyo 2023 ✨
📅 Event Period: Until January 4, 2024 (Thursday)
🕒 Event Time: 5:00 PM to 9:05 PM (Japan Time)
📍 Venue: Yokohama City Waterfront (Shinko Central Square, Yokohama Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal, Yamash*ta Park, etc.)
💰 Cost: Free admission
🔗 Website: https://yorunoyo.yokohama/en/

Would you like to savor the flavors of "Koshu" and "Shinshu" that have been passed down since the Edo period?

This time, we will introduce local products from Yamanashi and Nagano that are available for purchase on board the Azusa Chuo Line Limited Express. 🚄

🦪 Abalone Snack 🦪

Did you know that boiled abalone is a specialty of Yamanashi Prefecture? There are various theories about its origin, but it is said that during the Edo period, abalone caught in Suruga Bay was stewed and marinated in soy sauce, and by the time it arrived in Yamanashi, the soy sauce had soaked in and matured the stewed abalone. Feel free to savor this delicacy! 😋

🌶️ Spicy Isogoro Shichimi Potato Sticks 🥔

Yawataya Isogoro's shichimi mustard is considered one of Japan's three major shichimi blends. It was initially sold in the precincts of Zenkoji Temple in Nagano Prefecture during the mid-Edo period and boasts a unique taste with a harmonious balance of spiciness and aroma. The potato sticks are crunchy and seasoned with the spiciness, aroma, and flavor of shichimi mustard. 🥵

These products will be available for purchase on board the Azusa Chuo Line Limited Express (Shinjuku~Matsumoto) until around February 2024. Our dedicated attendants eagerly await the opportunity to serve you. 💚

🎭 "Edmont x Kabuki" Themed Room 🏨

HOTEL METROPOLITAN EDMONT TOKYO is approximately 10 minutes from Shinjuku Station, with Iidabashi Station and Suidobashi Station nearby. 🚆

Currently, there is a collaboration-themed room with a Kabuki motif! In the hotel lobby, there are panels with information in both Japanese and English explaining Kabuki in an easy-to-understand manner with the help of illustrations and photographs. The stunning costumes used on the actual stage are particularly awe-inspiring. 👘

Even those who are not staying at the hotel can enjoy the exhibition in the hotel lobby. Please take this opportunity to visit HOTEL METROPOLITAN EDMONT TOKYO! 🤩

"Edmont x Kabuki" Themed Room: https://edmont-tokyo.hotel-metropolitan.com/stay/plan/kabuki_eng.html

Google Maps (HOTEL METROPOLITAN EDMONT TOKYO): https://maps.app.goo.gl/HTMEMX48jLiFiBGs9

Access: Approximately a 5-minute walk from JR Iidabashi Station East Exit/JR Suidobashi Station West Exit

🚃 HIGH RAIL 1375: The Train Closest to the Sky 🌌

Do you know "HIGH RAIL 1375," one of JR East's Joyful Trains? It runs on the Koumi Line, which connects Kobuchizawa Station in Yamanashi Prefecture and Komoro Station in Nagano Prefecture. It is also known as the Yatsugatake Kogen Line, which runs at the highest point in Japan. The concept of this train is "the train closest to the sky," taking advantage of its unique characteristics. ⭐️

In addition, the name of the train is a combination of "HIGH" representing the high altitude of the Koumi Line, "RAIL" for the track, and "1375 m" which is the highest point on the JR Line from Nobeyama Station to Kiyosato Station. The interior of the train has a sophisticated design, with seats themed after the constellations of the four seasons and art-style walls that will make your trip even more enjoyable. ✨

Of particular note is the HIGH RAIL Gallery in Car No. 2, where astronomy-related books are lined up on circular bookshelves, and images of the starry sky are projected onto the hemispherical dome of the ceiling. Isn't it romantic to be able to look at the starry sky while sitting inside the train? 📚🌠

In autumn and winter, the air is crisp and the stars in the night sky look even more beautiful. If you are considering a trip to the Koshinetsu region, why not plan a trip with HIGH RAIL 1375? 🤩

Please check the official website for more details: https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/joyful/highrail1375.html

Enjoy your trip to Japan with an eSIM! 🤳

🚃 Traveling on a Local Joyful Train 🚃

Introducing the "KAIRI" train, where you can savor the delectable cuisine and picturesque landscapes of Niigata and Shonai. The train's concept revolves around "Food from Niigata and Shonai" and "Scenic Views of the Sea of Japan." You can enjoy delicious Japanese dishes while looking out at the rugged yet beautiful scenery of the Sea of Japan. 🍽️🌊

ℹ️ Japan Travel Information Tool: eSIM ℹ️

Ensuring a seamless internet experience during your travels is essential. JR East offers an eSIM trial campaign exclusively for visitors to Japan. Those who complete the questionnaire will be eligible for an eSIM with 300MB. 👍

Joyful Train KAIRI Website: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/joyful/kairi.html

Nippon Go eSIM Campaign: https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/japanesim/index.html (until January 10, 2024)

Enjoy casual skiing at GALA Yuzawa, Japan this winter! ⛷️

If you are traveling to Japan in winter, why not go skiing at GALA Yuzawa? The quickest route from Tokyo is to take the Joetsu Shinkansen Tanigawa, which gets you there in just 71 minutes with no transfers. ❄️

You can rent tools on-site, so you don't have to bring anything! They also offer a wide variety of courses to cater to skiers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. The school provides careful guidance from friendly instructors, ensuring that even first-time skiers can enjoy their experience without any concerns. 🎿

Aside from skiing, there are plenty of other activities, including snowmobile sled tours. 🛷

Enjoy winter in Japan to the fullest at GALA Yuzawa, thanks to its beautiful natural surroundings and convenient accessibility. 😌

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gRxTqoJP5wrf5ec97

Address: 1039-2 Yuzawa, Yuzawa-cho, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata Prefecture
Nearest Station: Directly connected to JR GALA Yuzawa Station
Access: Tokyo Station (JR Joetsu Shinkansen Tanigawa) → GALA Yuzawa Station

Visit the Kita-Shinano area of Nagano Prefecture this winter! ❄️

At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, you can see wild monkeys bathing in hot springs, which is very rare. After being soothed by nature and the sight of monkeys, you can spend a relaxing time at Yudanaka or Shibu Onsen, both with a long history. 🐒♨️

Want to get a good deal? Purchase your admission ticket in advance on Tabisuru Kitashinano! 🎫

Tabisuru Kitashinano is a convenient and economical service that allows you to purchase sightseeing and transportation tickets in Nagano's Kita-Shinano area in advance with a credit card using a smartphone. 👌

The Kita-Shinano area is full of charm even in winter! You can reach it via an 80-minute Shinkansen ride from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station. 🚄

Tabisuru Kitashinano Website: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/maas/tabisuru-kitashinano/?utm_source=kitashinano_23_290&utm_medium=qr&utm_campaign=product

Genbikei Gorge: A place of scenic beauty, a mysterious world woven with the shape of the earth and the vivid colors of the four seasons ✨

Genbikei is a national scenic spot and natural monument that was slowly formed over time by the erosion of the Iwai River from Mt. Kurikoma to Ichinoseki City. It is filled with emerald green water streams, strangely shaped and huge rocks, potholes, abyss, waterfalls, etc. that spread out for about two kilometers, and the beautiful valley scenery combines tranquility and motion. Genbikei is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Ichinoseki area, visited by more than one million people a year. 🏞️

Here you can enjoy the atmosphere of every season. The beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom and the valley flowing with melting snow in spring. The cool murmur of a mountain stream in summer. The changing colors of the mountains in fall. And a landscape reminiscent of an ink painting in winter. 🌸🌳🍂❄️

Furthermore, there is a shop on the opposite bank of the mountain stream that sells Kakko dango, a specialty of Genbikei. To order, you place your payment in a basket that hangs from a rope stretched over the river. Hit a mallet and the basket is pulled up. It then comes back to you with dango and tea. 🍡🍵🧺

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PdVQ3TfxxELn5Vos9

Access: Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Ichinoseki Station for approximately 2 hours, then take a 20-minute bus ride to Genbikei Line Genbikei Bus Stop. Genbikei is just a 1-minute walk from the bus stop.

Great value pass information: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/eastpass_t.html

🏯 Morioka Castle Ruins Park in Autumn, Where the Leaves Shine on the Stone Walls 🍂

With Morioka City selected as one of the New York Times' "52 Places to Go in 2023,'' more people will be planning trips to Morioka in the future. 🧳

The Morioka Castle Ruins Park that we will be introducing this time is a nationally designated historical site and has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 historical parks. It is conveniently located 15 minutes away by foot from Morioka Station. 🏯

In spring, the Cherry Blossom Festival is crowded with people, especially at night when the blossoms are illuminated by lanterns. May and July bring vibrant wisteria and hydrangea displays around Tsurugaike. In autumn, the colored maple and ginkgo leaves look beautiful against the stone wall in the background. And in winter, during the Morioka Yukiakari Festival, mini kamakura lit by candles transform the park into a magical space. It's truly a charming park that evolves through all four seasons! ✨

Morioka Castle Ruins Park, loved by local residents for its peaceful atmosphere, is the perfect place to enjoy the autumn foliage season's vibrant beauty. 🍁

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/AiC6LWe5kLfZcqV78

Access: Approximately 2 hours from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station by JR Tohoku Shinkansen, then about a 15-minute walk from Morioka Station

Great value pass information: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/eastpass_t.html

Supporting the Ibaraki Destination Campaign! 🙌

In order to liven up Ibaraki's Destination Campaign, which started in October, we would like to introduce the products that are sold on board the Joban Line Hitachi Limited Express train. 🛒🚄

🍠 Ibaraki Yakiimo Sable 🍠

Ibaraki Yakiimo Sable is made with the Beni Azuma sweet potato from Ibaraki—when you eat it, the elegant sweetness of the roasted sweet potato spreads in your mouth. The sable, shaped like Ibaraki Prefecture, is stamped with cute illustrations of the prefecture's scenic spots and specialty products, allowing you to enjoy Ibaraki with your eyes. 😍

🍶 Ippin 🍶

Ippin is the representative sake of Yoshikubo Brewery, a sake brewery that was founded in Mito in 1790 and has been producing sake for over 230 years. This sake uses very soft water from the Kasahara Channel. The sake made from this water and local rice is characterized by its dry and rich flavor. 😋

These products will be available for purchase on board the Joban Line Hitachi Limited Express (Tokyo to Iwaki) until December 2023. Let us know when you use the in-car sales! ✨

Ibaraki Destination Campaign Website: https://www.ibarakiguide.jp/dc/

🍁 Experience the Beauty of Autumn in Nagano Prefecture's Kitashinano Area! 🍂

The Yonako Great Falls in Suzaka City, Nagano Prefecture is a famous waterfall that has earned its place among Japan's top 100 waterfalls. Here, you can enjoy trekking and waterfall training. ✨

In autumn, the scenery of autumn leaves is spectacular. 🍁

At the foot of the mountain is Yonako Fudoson, one of Japan's three major Fudoson temples. It's also associated with Uesugi Kenshin, a military commander who was active during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). 🙏

Moreover, in the Matsukawa Valley of Takayama Village, Shinshu, you can enjoy stunning autumn leaves that stretch for about 15 km. It's also recommended to unwind in one of the eight hot springs in the area, including the 200-year-old Yamada Onsen. ♨️

"Tabisuru Kitashinano" is a convenient service that allows you to pre-purchase and use electronic tickets for the Nagano Prefecture and Kita-Shinano areas—such as transportation tickets to Yonako Fudoson, sightseeing tickets, and bathing fees—all through your smartphone and with a credit card. 📱💳

It's only about an 80-minute Shinkansen ride from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station! Nagano Prefecture boasts its own unique charm, even in the autumn season! 🚅🍁

Tabisuru Kitashinano Website: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/maas/tabisuru-kitashinano/?utm_source=kitashinano_23_290&utm_medium=qr&utm_campaign=product

🌼 Yahiko Chrysanthemum Festival, Yahiko Park Momiji Valley 🌺

From Tsubame-Sanjo Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen, take the Yahiko Line to the final stop, Yahiko Station. Yahiko Station is a station building modeled after Yahiko Shrine. 🚄

Yahiko Shrine, with a rich 2,400-year history, will host the Chrysanthemum Festival from November 1st to 24th, featuring a stunning display of around 3,000 chrysanthemum pots in diverse sizes and vibrant colors across its grounds. 🌼

Visit Yahiko Park near Yahiko Shrine to witness the enchanting "upside down autumn leaves," where you can enjoy the reflection of fall foliage on the water's surface, especially magical when illuminated after sunset! 🍁✨

Yahiko is also a hot spring area, so if you're tired, take a break in the footbath and handbath in the Omotenashi Hiroba and enjoy Yahiko's delicious food. ♨️

Please come to Yahiko, where you can enjoy a day trip or stay overnight! 🧳

Access: Tokyo Station (about 2 hours on the JR Joetsu Shinkansen) → Tsubame-Sanjo Station (about 40 minutes on the JR Yahiko Line) → Yahiko Station

Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1MKLnkIQDJ1RK19VpUq-r5mMtAt4&hl=en_US&ll=37.69953668976783%2C138.83217256422955&z=18

🍂 Fall Foliage Viewing at a Secret Hot Spring in Nyuto Onsenkyo 🍁

Why not admire the autumn leaves while listening to the murmuring of the Sendatsu River? 🏞️

Nyuto Onsenkyo is one of the most popular hidden hot springs in Japan. In fact, it is one of the famous spots for autumn leaves. 🍂

Nyuto Onsenkyo has seven hot springs with different spring quality, each in a separate location, and the view of beech and birch trees from the open-air bath is magical. 🤩

The view from the open-air bath while listening to the sound of the Sendatsu River is truly spectacular. Looking at the autumn leaves while feeling the atmosphere of a secret hot spring is sure to be an atmospheric experience. One of the real pleasures is observing the different colors of the leaves while touring the hot springs. They usually begin to change color in early October, and the best time to see them is from mid to late October. ✨

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/FkQVHr5m2JCEAzqF6

Access: 3 hours from Tokyo Station to Tazawako Station by JR Akita Shinkansen

Great value pass information: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/eastpass_t.html

🍁 Shuzenji Onsen Autumn Foliage 🍂

A spectacular view of nature's fiery red hues. Why not enjoy the autumn leaves in a hot spring town said to be the oldest in Izu? ♨️

In Shuzenji Onsen, a representative hot spring town in Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture, the best time to see autumn leaves is from mid-November to early December. Here you can enjoy the contrast between the red of the autumn leaves and the colors of traditional Japanese scenery, such as the red bridge over the Katsura River, the green bamboo grove, and the historic Shuzenji Temple. 🍂

Shuzenji Niji no Sato will also be illuminated at night during the event, allowing you to see the beautiful autumn leaves in a different light. ✨

Please spend some relaxing time walking around, enjoying the autumn leaves and the hot springs. 😌

Access: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes by Limited Express Odoriko from Tokyo Station to Shuzenji Station, then approximately 10 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fbX3CtEHsDFi3Z9b9

🚄 Ride the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Hokuriku and Savor Delicious Crabs 🦀

Do you like crabs? Crab is very delicious in Japan and crabs from the Hokuriku region are especially delicious in winter! 🦀

Located northwest of Tokyo and facing the sea, the Hokuriku region is abundant in seafood. You can reach it in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen. 🚄

This year, the snow crab fishing season will open on November 6th, allowing you to enjoy freshly caught crabs from all over Hokuriku. 😋

From November 6th, 2023, to March 31st, 2024, a crab campaign will take place at various JR East stations. The stations will be adorned with crab decorations, enhancing the theme of "Go to Hokuriku to Eat Crabs." 🍽️

The Hokuriku Arch Pass is perfect for heading from Tokyo to Hokuriku to eat crabs! During the campaign period, presenting your pass at participating facilities will earn you small discounts and other benefits. 🎫

Why not hop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hokuriku for an unforgettable crab feast? We'll be eagerly awaiting your arrival in Hokuriku! 🦀

Hokuriku Arch Pass: https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/hokurikuarch.html

Travel back in time to the samurai era?? 🗡️

More than 1,000 armored warriors form a procession and parade through the streets of Kofu at the Shingen-ko Festival Koshu Battalion Deployment, which is held in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. 🛡️

Shingen Takeda ruled over the province of Kai, which is now Yamanashi Prefecture. Also known as the "Tiger of Kai," Shingen's way of life represents the Sengoku warlords—with excellent strategy and political skill, and using his strength as a weapon. The main highlight of the Shingen-ko Festival is that entertainers dress up as Shingen Takeda every year. 💪

This year, supermodel Ai Tominaga, known for her international career, will portray Shingen. Why not join us at the Shingen-ko Festival, where the scenery resembles a Sengoku-era painting? ✨

Shingen-ko Festival Website: https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/shingen/english/about.html
Event period: October 27 to 29, 2023 (the Koshu Battalion Deployment is on the 28th)
Venue: Maizuru Castle Park, 1-5-4 Marunouchi, Kofu City
Nearest station: JR Kofu Station　
Access: About 90 minutes from Shinjuku Station by Limited Express "Azusa" or "Kaiji"

Would you like to taste Yamagata and fill your tummy? 😋

This time, we will introduce the local products of Yamagata that are sold inside the Yamagata Shinkansen.

🍍 Yamagata Pineapple Cider 🍍

Yamagata pineapple cider has long been popular as Yamagata's soul food. The faint pine color pigment comes from Yamagata's prefectural flower, safflower. Enjoy a local cider with a fruity aroma and strong carbonation!

🍗 Additive-free Happy Chicken Sausage 🍗

The meat from mature hens that have completed their egg-laying cycle is characterized by its unique texture and rich umami flavor. “Happy Chicken Sausage” was made to take advantage of this quality. The more you chew, the deeper the flavor becomes, creating an addictive culinary experience, so please enjoy it.

These products will be available for purchase on the Yamagata Shinkansen "Tsubasa" (between Tokyo and Yamagata) until around October 2023. All the attendants are eagerly waiting for you to come aboard!

Enjoy the view of the Sea of Japan and the cuisine of Niigata and Shonai during a delightful train journey aboard the KAIRI! 🌊🚞

JR East's sightseeing train, KAIRI, promises a joyful ride and made its debut in 2019. This train route connects Niigata and Sakata, aptly named "Kairi" to symbolize the opportunity for passengers to relish the rich "sea" and "villages" of Niigata Prefecture and the Shonai region, as well as the beautiful scenery of the Sea of Japan. 🌅🛤️

The KAIRI is a newly built four-car diesel hybrid vehicle. In Car No. 4, you can bask in panoramic views of the Sea of Japan while indulging in exquisite onboard dining called "Sea of Japan View Dining." On the outbound journey from Niigata to Tsuruoka/Sakata, treat yourself to elaborate seasonal Japanese cuisine unique to Niigata, prepared by three prestigious restaurants with over 100 years of history. On the inbound return journey from Tsuruoka/Sakata to Niigata, relish the flavors of "Okuda Italian," curated by Chef Masayuki Okuda of Tsuruoka's renowned Italian restaurant Al Ché-cciano. 🍽️🍷

An opportunity to savor the finest gourmet food and wonderful landscape of Niigata and Shonai awaits you. Why not embark on this exceptional train journey that's uniquely KAIRI? ✨

*Kindly refer to the official website for details, as seasonal ingredients and dishes vary according to the time of year.

Joyful Train KAIRI Website: https://www.jreast.co.jp/railway/joyful/kairi.html

*Please note that the popular Car No. 4 travel package, inclusive of JR tickets, meals, and drinks, is available only for two or more people.

🍁🌊 Autumn in Ibaraki is so beautiful! 🌳🍂

Allow us to introduce the charm of autumn in Ibaraki Prefecture, located northeast of Tokyo.

Fukuroda Falls and Eigen-ji Temple in Ibaraki Prefecture are places with wonderful autumn scenery.

💧 Fukuroda Falls 💧

Fukuroda Falls is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Ibaraki, and is one of Japan's three most famous waterfalls.

With the arrival of fall, the leaves turn into beautiful colors, creating a magical landscape. The contrast between the sound of the waterfall and the autumn leaves will soothe your soul.

🙏 Eigen-ji Temple 🙏

This is the place to visit to experience history and culture! Eigen-ji is an old temple with beautiful gardens and buildings that sit in a quiet setting.

In autumn, the garden is colored with autumn leaves where you can spend a peaceful time that will refresh your soul.

If you want to enjoy autumn in Japan, be sure to visit Fukuroda Falls and Eigen-ji Temple in Ibaraki. Beautiful scenery and heartwarming experiences await!