Gunma-chan to debut as JR East train conductor in summer 2026

JR East and Gunma Prefecture are launching a summer promotion in which the regional mascot Gunma-chan will train to become a train conductor. From 18 July to 30 September 2026 the mascot will appear as a conductors' trainee on Instagram and X, culminating in a debut on 15 August.

Special “GV Gunma‑chan Mizukami” and “GV Gunma‑chan Yokokawa” trains will run on those dates, featuring a unique head‑mark and on‑board stamp‑rally. A limited‑capacity travel package (640 participants total, 80 per train) allows passengers to greet the mascot in uniform, join quizzes and games, and receive exclusive memorabilia such as signed postcards, a patterned cooler bag, and Gunma‑chan‑themed pastries.

The campaign also includes a social‑media repost challenge, station‑based greeting events, photo panels and a stamp‑rally, all aimed at boosting tourism in Gunma during the summer.