Society | Jun 18

Luxury sleeper train Mizukaze begins service

Jun 18 (NHK) - Train buffs and railway officials have attended the launch of a luxury sleeper train journey from Osaka Station.

The service, named Twilight Express Mizukaze, is operated by West Japan Railway. A ceremony marked the first train's departure on Saturday.

Train fans cheered as the streamlined, deep-green train appeared at the platform in the morning.

The train has 10 cars with 16 cabins. Travelers can enjoy panoramic views from the front and end cars, whose windows extend to the ceiling. The cars also have outside decks for passengers to use.

The dining car features seasonal delicacies from western Japan, and a bar and lounge serve drinks and traditional green tea.

Fares range from 270,000 yen or around 2,500 dollars for one night in a twin berth cabin, to more than 750,000 yen or about 6,800 dollars. The rail operator says the inaugural journey attracted some 25 times more applicants than places.

Source: Kyodo

MORE Society NEWS

Bracing for 'Crow Blackouts'

As crows enter their breeding season, their nest-building activities are causing concern among utility providers due to the increased risk of power outages.

BBC Accused of Distorting Smile-Up President's Comments

Japanese company Smile-Up, the former talent agency known as Johnny & Associates, says it has sent a letter of protest to Britain's public broadcaster BBC over its program on sexual abuse by its late founder. (NHK)

Akane Hotta Ties the Knot with Longtime Beau

Actress Akane Hotta announced on the 26th that she has married a non-celebrity man she had been dating, sharing her joy on Instagram.

POPULAR NEWS

Japanese Yen Slides to 34-Year Low, Hits 158 Against the Dollar

In a significant movement in the foreign exchange markets, the Japanese yen has once again depreciated, crossing the 158 mark against the U.S. dollar. This level marks the weakest the yen has been in approximately 34 years, signaling ongoing economic pressures and potentially major shifts in Japan's financial landscape.

Brave Seven-Year-Old Rescues Kidnapped Four-Year-Old Sister

In a remarkable display of bravery and quick thinking, a seven-year-old girl in Kitakyushu successfully rescued her four-year-old sister who had been kidnapped. The incident, which unfolded on April 13th, began when the siblings were approached by a stranger while playing on the street.

Unpacking Japan's Lavish School Lunch

Japan's Cabinet Office's Government Public Relations Office recently stirred controversy with a social media post showcasing an overly lavish depiction of school lunches, leading to a public outcry over the authenticity of the meals presented.

Gotanda JP Building Opens Doors with Hoshino Resort on High Floors

Tokyo's Shinagawa district welcomes a new landmark with the grand opening of the Gotanda JP Building on Friday, April 26, featuring a dog-friendly hotel by Hoshino Resort, co-working spaces, and a vibrant culinary scene.

BBC Accused of Distorting Smile-Up President's Comments

Japanese company Smile-Up, the former talent agency known as Johnny & Associates, says it has sent a letter of protest to Britain's public broadcaster BBC over its program on sexual abuse by its late founder. (NHK)

FOLLOW US